Melancholy of Mandodari

2025 | Bangkok Thailand

Queen Montho is one of the most quietly tragic figures in the Ramakien. Though not the central heroine, her story weaves a deep thread of sorrow, sacrifice, and silent strength beneath the epic’s grand battles and divine conflicts.

She bore three children, each leaving a wound on her heart:— Angkhot, her son with Phali, taken from her and left behind—a painful secret she could never claim.— Sita, her daughter with Tosakanth, surrendered to the earth for her protection, growing up far from her mother’s embrace, caught unknowingly between two worlds.— Indrajit, the warrior son, raised to fight a brutal war, sent away by his father’s command, risking his life for a kingdom torn by betrayal and ambition.

Yet peace eludes her. Despite her loyalty and sacrifice, Tosakanth mocks her past, questions her motives, and views her pain as weakness. Her voice is seldom heard—and when it is, dismissed. Montho is the only one brave enough to speak reason to the demon king. She warns him. She pleads for their son’s safety. She carries the shame of her past, the guilt of leaving a child behind, and the heartbreak of being misunderstood by the man she loves. Her sorrow is not loud—it is dignified. She does not rage. She remembers. She endures. In her silence, we witness the true cost of war, pride, and patriarchal power. When portraying Montho, her grief must never be theatrical—restraint is key. Her sorrow is layered and ancient. Every glance, every breath carries years of inner torment and maternal devotion.

Direction, Set Design, Costume and Concept: Jitti ChompeePerforming Artists: Anucha Sumaman, Watcharawan Tanaphat, Yarnawut Traisuwan, Suwan Klinampon,Pipaat Ensemble (Traditional Thai Orchestra): Surapong Rohitajon, Jatuporn Damni, Atichon Tapruksa, Putit Pungsud, Vorravit Khaosamruang, Thapanut Thamtheing, Supachok Yodprasertsud, Pichet YoteeYoung Traditional Dancers: Sarunyu Wangsurong, Rattasart Saexowr, Thanathat Ringnam, Peerawat Phonchaiyan, Yuma Natthorn Sakurai, Prin Harnprab, Patt Choompich, Vorawich Rohitajol, Thitipat JunheebTechnical Director: Jirach Eaimsa-ardKhon Mask Maker: Khanchai HomjanPuppet Maker: Dvis Nichanthaaman

Supported by the Ministry of Culture, Department of Cultural Promotion, the Fine Arts Department, Office of Performing Arts (the National Theatre), Pattayakul School of Thai Classical Music, Canon Thailand, and Sodsai Pantoomkomol Centre for Dramatic Arts, Faculty of Arts, Chulalongkorn University