“Writing, Acting And Direction Are All Connected For Me”: Naveen Bawa On His Latest Commercial Comedy Play Saali Poori Ghar Waali!

Writer, director, and actor Naveen Bawa has spent nearly two decades exploring commercial comedy through theatre, and his latest play, Saali Poori Ghar Waali, brings together humour, relationships, music, and a strong social message. For Bawa, comedy has always been an ideal medium to address subjects that people may otherwise hesitate to discuss openly.

Reflecting on his journey, Naveen says, “Saali Poori Ghar Waali is my third commercial comedy play in the last twenty years.” He began with Aasmaan Se Gire Khajoor Mein Atke in 2006, which went on to become a major international success. He later wrote, directed, produced, and acted in Ek Prayas, followed by Baap Ka Baap—both of which toured extensively across India and overseas.

Elaborating on his latest production, Naveen explains that Saali Poori Ghar Waali is fundamentally a story rooted in modern relationships. “There are so many divorces happening, so many marriages are breaking down and relationships are falling apart. Why is this happening? The play explores that,” he says. At the same time, he emphasizes that the play examines marital dynamics without becoming overly heavy or preachy for the audience.

The Punjabi identity of the wife’s character was an integral element that Naveen decided upon right at the writing stage. “When I started writing the play, I had already decided that I wanted the wife’s character to be Punjabi,” he shares, adding that the actor grasped the character’s nuances almost instantly, making the execution seamless.

For Naveen, the theatrical experience goes beyond situational comedy, leaning heavily on production value, sound design, and music. “This play has everything: songs, dance, entertainment, laughter, emotions, and, of course, a small but important social message,” he notes.

Balancing writing, direction, and performance simultaneously is a complex process, but Naveen thrives on the challenge. “I really enjoy multitasking. Writing, acting and direction are all connected for me,” he explains. His process includes detailed table readings with actors prior to stage rehearsals, ensuring the cast aligns with his original visual and emotional vision.

Even after two decades in the industry, Naveen maintains an eager approach to his craft. “I am still a student and I want to keep learning and doing more,” he says. Alongside his work in theatre, Naveen is currently directing a feature film, which is slated for release soon.

Summing up the production for theatre enthusiasts, Naveen adds: “Saali Poori Ghar Waali has everything—a great cast, music, songs, dance, emotions, laughter, and a small social message. I am sure audiences will thoroughly enjoy the experience.”

By Keerti Kadam