The very talented Tannishtha Chatterjee who is currently recuperating from cancer has turned her condition into a play called Breast of Luck.
It is a sharply observed, emotionally layered dark comedy that tracks the evolving relationship between Arun, a grumpy, emotionally reserved stockbroker, played by Sharib Hashmi and Sheila, a spirited classical singer.
Set against the backdrop of Mumbai’s claustrophobic apartment culture and millennial dating realities, their journey takes an unexpected and sobering turn when Sheila is diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer.
The play moves fluidly between comedy, realism, surreal imagery, live singing, and poignant emotional moments. Video installations are integrated to heighten interiority and provide visual metaphors—such as Sheila’s hospital scenes. It juxtaposes real and the theatre .
Says Tannishtha, “This is my way of celebrating life . To smile in the face of death is not easy. But when you are fighting for your life, humour is a fine escape route. We shot some videos while I was undergoing chemotherapy and will use them in the play.”
Breast Of Luck will be performed on 4 February World Cancer Day performance at the prestigious Kala Ghoda festival, Mumbai.
