Mumbai’s theater scene is witnessing a spectacular success with Akbar Birbal, a historic comedy that brings legendary tales to life with a delightful comic twist. The play has been drawing packed houses, resonating with audiences across generations through its grand production, sharp humor, and stellar performances.
At the center of this entertaining spectacle is Ali Asgar as Emperor Akbar, whose royal troubles go beyond governance—his biggest challenges are palace politics and the romantic dilemmas of his son, Shehzada Salim (Pawan Singh). Salim’s unwavering love for Anarkali (Nyra Banerjee) adds to the royal chaos, while Rani Jodha Bai (Delnaaz Irani) ensures the court remains as dramatic as ever.
The play’s humor and intelligence shine through Vishaal Kotian’s portrayal of Birbal, whose wit and wisdom keep both the emperor and the audience engaged. His quick comebacks and clever problem-solving add depth to the historic comedy, making every scene a treat.
Speaking about the play’s success, Paritosh Painter, the creative force behind the production, shared, “Reimagining Akbar and Birbal’s timeless stories with humor has been an exciting challenge. We wanted to create something that appeals to everyone—history lovers, comedy enthusiasts, and even younger audiences. The continuous laughter and full theaters confirm that we’ve struck the right balance.”
Produced by Pramod Bokadia and Paritosh Painter, with Sejal Dipak Painter as co-producer, Akbar Birbal seamlessly blends history with comedy, offering a visual and theatrical spectacle. From grand set designs to foot-tapping musical sequences, the production is a feast for the senses. Farzil Pardiwala and Yashkant Sharma add to the hilarity with impeccable comic timing and high-energy performances.
Currently running to full houses in Mumbai, Akbar Birbal has firmly established itself as a must-watch. With its unique mix of historic grandeur and contemporary humor, it continues to set a new benchmark for comedic theater.