The Kathmandu-based theatre group Katha Ghera is set to present a socially driven travelling street play carrying the message of women’s empowerment and equal opportunities in labour, in various districts of Karnali and Sudurpaschim. This play is an important part of the GRAPE 2 project.

The GRAPE 2 project is a joint initiative implemented in Nepal with the aim of empowering farmers, women, and youth while promoting sustainable and climate-resilient economic development. The project particularly focuses on increasing the participation of women and youth in agriculture, creating employment opportunities, boosting income, and expanding opportunities through collaboration with the private sector.

Under this project, the play highlights themes such as women’s economic independence, entrepreneurship, and participation in labour. In our society, although women have long contributed significantly through household and unpaid labour, their work has not been properly recognised. Traditional beliefs that confine women to domestic roles still persist.

The play challenges these social norms and prejudices, conveying the message that women can balance both household and professional lives. It also emphasises the need for families, communities, and society to encourage and support women’s participation in economic activities.

The play features 8 artists and musicians, and the full touring team consists of 12 members, including the director, coordinator, and manager.

Through this initiative, there is an expectation of directly engaging local communities and spreading messages of gender equality, economic empowerment, and social transformation.