Get ready for surprises with Kagtali

 Imagine this: It’s your first wedding anniversary. You come home excited, ready to surprise your partner—only to find her with someone you’ve never met before. You suddenly realize she’s having an affair. On top of that, you’ve already invited guests to celebrate. Can you still go on with the celebration? What would you do?

This is the emotional punch that kicks off Kagtali, a new play currently being performed at Kausi Theatre in Kathmandu.

Written and directed by newcomer Nabin Chandra Aryal, Kagtali tells the story of Shital (Basna Timalsina), her husband Bibash (Sabin Bhattarai), and Suraj (Rupesh Lama)—a stranger who becomes part of a very complicated situation. When all three come face-to-face, the story takes a turn that's as suspenseful as it is hilarious.

A Perfect Blend of Suspense and Laughter

Although Kagtali falls under the crime-thriller genre, it’s far from a dark, heavy drama. Instead, it’s filled with unexpected moments of comedy. The audience finds themselves laughing one minute and holding their breath the next. This balance of tension and humor is rare in Nepali theatre, and Aryal manages it remarkably well for a debut director.

It’s a fresh approach that could inspire more artists in Nepali theatre to explore genre-blending storytelling.

Stellar Performances All Around

The play’s charm wouldn’t be possible without strong performances. All ten cast members shine, but Basna Timalsina and Rupesh Lama especially stand out. Their emotional depth, body language, and expressions bring their complex characters to life. Even during humorous scenes, they hold steady expressions, enhancing the contrast between comedy and drama.

Shital and her aunt (played by Sushma Niraula) also carry a deeper message. They represent educated women with dreams and potential, who are held back by family pressures. Their roles give voice to countless women whose ambitions are quietly silenced by domestic duties.

Another highlight is Jiwan Dahal’s portrayal of Teku—a loud, flashy character who steals every scene he’s in. His exaggerated confidence and quirky behavior leave the audience in stitches. He’s the kind of character who reminds you of that one over-the-top relative we all know.

A Realistic and Relatable Setting

The entire play takes place in a modest two-bedroom apartment, complete with a balcony where characters often go to smoke. The dialogues are casual and relatable, touching on everyday topics like family and work.

Adding to the charm is the nostalgic background music. Classics like Ma Mauntama by Om Bikram Bista and Pohor Saal Khushi by Aruna Lama complement the mood of the play beautifully.

Small Flaws That Can Be Fixed

While Kagtali is a standout production, it’s not without a few inconsistencies. For instance, the play appears to be set in 1995 (as seen on a wall calendar), but props like books published after 2010 and a cheque from Global IME Bank (established in 2012) break the timeline. These details can confuse the audience and are easy to correct.

Also, one scene involves the use of a real khukuri (a traditional knife). For safety—and theatrical consistency—it would be better to use a realistic prop. Theatre is about creating the illusion of reality, not using real weapons.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Miss It

The ending of Kagtali is sharp and unexpected, leaving the audience with questions and reflections. It’s the kind of conclusion that stays with you long after the final applause.

Whether you’re looking for something gripping, funny, or thought-provoking, Kagtali delivers it all. If you're in Kathmandu, don't miss this unique and entertaining experience.

Show Details:
Kagtali runs until August 16 at 5:15 PM daily (except Tuesdays) at Kausi Theatre, Teku. There’s an extra show on Saturdays at 1:00 PM.