Raja Play is a strategic game of deduction and luck for 4 to 9 players. Each player is given a chit with a different character name, ranging from Raja to Chor. They then select a role to play and try to outwit their opponents.
The play features a satirical look at the global corporate world and the unethical methods used by multinational companies to prosper in India. It was presented by a theatre troupe from Kolkata.
The Game
Raja is a great game for groups of 6 or more. The rules are simple, and you’ll quickly get a feel for the game. Once you have a good grasp on the basic rules, you can start experimenting with new tactics.
Players play as rajas and ranis competing for wealth and fame in 16th century India. They use strategies and good karma to develop their estates into magnificent provinces. The first player to reach 20 gold wins the game.
In the centre of the table are 15 tiles with values from 1 to 10 and -1 to -5. Each turn, a player chooses to play one of their bidding cards, which is revealed simultaneously. If they are caught bluffing, they must pay the price of 3 Golds.
Rules
Raj is a great game for all ages and can be played by two or more players. It’s a strategic game where each player takes turns placing their pieces on the board. Each piece is represented by a different colour and has different abilities. For example, a raja can only move into squares that are not threatened by other enemy pieces or protected by a piece that protects him from capture.
The interesting thing about Raj is that the rules allow for a lot of ties – for example, if you bid high for a positive card and another player also bids high, they both collect the tile. This allows for a good amount of comedy and makes the game fun to play. The game is often played as a tournament and the winner of each round gets exponentially greater points.
Variations
Raja has the unique ability to turn any instrument into an emotional weapon. Think of that flute bass guitar portion in "ilaya nilaya", or that amazing string section he uses for the 1st interlude of "andhi mahazha". This comes from his long instrumental conducting experience with SPB bands and GKV assignments.
Moreover, he has developed a RAJA PLAY musical ecosystem that is sustainable over decades. This ecosystem includes elements such as speed of composition, creation of great melodies, and the quality of instrument players.
His instruments have been used by renowned artists such as Wynton Marsalis. They are ideal for jazz musicians and amateur or 'come back' players. These trumpets are also popular with players looking for a forgiving instrument that provides a solid response. They are also known for their large 5.75" bell diameter.
Materials
Raja is a great way for kids and adults to bond through fun screen-free play. It also teaches healthy competition and the importance of fair play. In a world where screen time is on the rise, Raja is an excellent way to encourage offline activities that foster real-world relationships and a sense of community.
Tagore’s philosophy of swadeshi and the self-empowerment of the rural poor finds its genesis in this play. The philosophical and political ideologies of Tagore synthesize smoothly in the complex fabric of Raja.
Raja is a sought after educator and has had the opportunity to present her work at colleges, universities, and independent intimacy programs around the globe. She is a proud graduate of Tectonic Theatre Project’s MFA program and the founding artistic director of Richmond Triangle Players.
Cost
RAJA Play tickets can cost anywhere from $50 to several hundred dollars for a live performance. Ticket prices can vary depending on venue and seat location, with floor seats and VIP tickets typically being the most expensive.
The RAJA Play illustrates the consequences of multinational companies through the life of Raja. The play depicts the king’s desire to wear rare and dazzling costumes, which he purchases from foreign fashion experts. The foreign experts befool him to the point where he competes naked.
The play is a powerful, convincing satire and has many lessons to teach us about the present-day business world. It is also a reminder of Tagore’s socialist political ideology. RAJA has a universal appeal that transcends language and cultural boundaries. Tagore’s works should be made available to the global audience, just like Shakespeare’s plays.