-By Mira Pawar
Hyderabad has always had that “leisurely” charm, but lately the energy is definitely changing gears. Hyderabad, the City of Nawabs, is shedding its reputation as a “laid-back” pace and stepping into a vibrant spotlight. But the most refreshing change isn’t the skyline—it’s the people. Hyderabad’s seniors are now taking the lead, trading quiet afternoons for bold adventures. From high-tech hobbies to cross-country travels, they are embracing experiences with an enthusiasm that would put people half their age to shame.
Mughal-e-Azam at NMAAC
In a world that often tells us to “slow down” as the years add on, two remarkable women Sudha Gorthy- an octogenarian and Jayashree Uppal- a septuagenarian from Secunderabad, Telangana, along with some friends have proved that the spirit of adventure only gets better with age. These lifelong friends on hearing about Mughal-e-Azam being staged at The Grand Theatre of Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) in Mumbai, spontaneously decided to attend the show and return back on the same day. They booked the tickets stating that a legendary play deserves a legendary journey.
For these ladies, Mughal-e-Azam wasn’t just a play; it was a bridge to their past. Originally conceived in the 1940s and released as a cinematic masterpiece in 1960, the story of Salim and Anarkali is etched into the hearts of their generation. They remember the transition from the stark beauty of black-and-white to the vibrant hues of the “Sheesh Mahal” sequence.
However, seeing this story transformed into a live theatrical experience was, in their words, “beyond imagination.” They didn’t just watch a performance; they were transported. The sheer scale of the production at the NMACC —with its world-class acoustics and breathtaking visuals—offered a sensory experience that left them spellbound long after the final bow.
India’s Cultural Revolution is Now
Let these two ladies be an inspiration to most seniors shying away from making bold decisions. Do not let age dictate your boundaries. Whether it’s a flight to Mumbai or a new hobby, the world is still yours to explore. Culture is a fountain of youth; go drink from it. It’s often noticed that GenZ look West for “cool” experiences, but the NMACC is a testament to the fact that India’s cultural revolution is here. To see our history—the stories your grandparents grew up with—told with modern, high-tech brilliance, is an experience you shouldn’t miss. It is a way to connect with your roots while standing in a venue that rivals any in London or New York.
As I listened to the Ladies praise the artists, I couldn’t help but be reminded of my own first visit to New York City. I remember the visceral impact of watching Cats and Miss Saigon on Broadway—the kind of performances that stays with you for decades. For a long time, it was believed that we had to cross oceans to witness that level of artistry. But today, thanks to the vision of the Ambani family, history is being made on our own soil. The NMACC has effectively brought the “Broadway standard” to India. It is a gift not just to the connoisseurs of art, but to every Indian who dreams of seeing our culture treated with such grandeur and respect.
Hats off to the Ambani family for making this effort. They haven’t just built a theatre; they’ve created a sanctuary for our heritage. They have ensured that the legends of the past, like Mughal-e-Azam, will continue to enchant generations to come.
As our two travellers and their friends returned to Secunderabad, they didn’t just bring back souvenirs; they brought back a renewed sense of wonder. And isn’t that what life is all about?