The Spoken Word Project | Dastangoi

Nanni ki Naani by Ismat Chughtai

Nanni ki Naani survives her destitution using a combination of courtesy, cunning and grit. She wears a namesake burqa; artfully takes multiple shares when food is distributed to the poor; wages war on the neighborhood monkeys; and quietly sings praises to her dearest companion: her favorite pillow. Adapted for Dastangoi from a tragi-comic sketch full of dark humour, Nanni ki Naani is one of Ismat Chughtai’s most moving pieces of writing.

Chacha Chhakkan Ne Tasveer Taangi (adapted from a humorous sketch by Imtiaz Ali Taj)

“Little knowledge is a dangerous thing” says the proverb. Armed with little knowledge of picture-hanging, Chacha Chhakkan sets out to complete the epic task of pinning a picture to a wall, all on his own. His heroic deeds include climbing the rungs of a ladder, commandeering two flunkies and, yes, wielding a hammer! His DIY enthusiasm results in a sketch full of frivolous comedy.

About the Storyteller

Fouzia grew up in the streets of Turkman Gate, Old Delhi. Her love for literature led her to learn the art of storytelling known as dastangoi. During the last eight years she has performed over seventy shows, including at the India Habitat Centre, India International Centre and the National School of Drama. She is also the first female dastango of modern times.

Fazal studied History in college and has been performing dastans with Fouzia for the past year.