Raell Padamsee’s ‘Rise Up for Equality’ Festival: Empowering Women Through Art

Following the success of its 2023 edition, the highly anticipated ‘Rise Up for Equality’ festival returns with a powerful message of hope and empowerment. Organized by renowned theatre personality Raell Padamsee’s Create Foundation in partnership with acclaimed actress Lushin Dubey, the event aims to champion women’s safety and equality in Maharashtra. Scheduled for December 14th and 15th at the Sophia Bhabha Auditorium, Breach Candy, this year’s festival promises an unforgettable blend of storytelling and advocacy for societal change.

The 2023 festival saw a significant impact, with collaborations involving the Mumbai Police, the Maharashtra Government, and the Judiciary. Vivek Phansalkar, Commissioner of Police, Mumbai, graced the occasion and symbolically received a specially-crafted ‘103 Rakhee’ from Raell Padamsee, highlighting the importance of the 103 Helpline. Supported by the Mumbai Police’s Nirbhaya Squad, this helpline provides immediate assistance to women in distress, reflecting the festival’s commitment to action and change.

This year, the festival takes a deeper dive into narratives of resilience and empowerment through two poignant theatrical performances.

On December 14th, Saturday, audiences will experience Lushin Dubey’s solo performance, Untitled. Drawing inspiration from Vijay Dan Detha’s Nyari Nyari Maryada and Nobel Laureate Dario Fo’s Medea, the play portrays the story of a Rajasthani queen who defies patriarchal traditions to reclaim her identity, exemplifying courage and rebellion against societal norms.

On December 15th, Sunday, the spotlight shifts to Aruna’s Story, a deeply moving adaptation of Pinky Virani’s book. This tribute, enacted by Dubey, recounts the harrowing yet inspiring journey of Aruna Shanbaug, a nurse who suffered a brutal attack and remained in a coma for 42 years. Her plight led to groundbreaking legal reforms, sparking conversations about passive euthanasia and justice in India.

Raell Padamsee, the visionary behind the festival, emphasizes the transformative power of collective action. “The ‘Rise Up for Equality’ festival is more than a series of performances—it’s a movement. Through meaningful conversations and art, we aim to create a safer, more equitable Maharashtra for women and children. True change begins when civil society unites to build a world that ensures safety, dignity, and empowerment for all.”

Padamsee invites audiences to join hands in the mission to make Mumbai a beacon of safety and equality. “This is the legacy we must leave for future generations,” she affirms.

Event Details

Day 1: Saturday, December 14th
Play: Untitled
Time: 7 PM
Venue: Sophia Bhabha Auditorium, Breach Candy

Day 2: Sunday, December 15th
Play: Aruna’s Story
Time: 7 PM
Venue: Sophia Bhabha Auditorium, Breach Candy

Tickets are now available on BookMyShow. Join this transformative festival and be a part of the change for a safer, more equitable world.