Kalki Koechlin writes poetry, takes on consumerism, politics and current affairs

Known for her offbeat film and theatre roles, as well as for being outspoken when it comes to social issues, Kalki Koechlin is now taking the stage for a different kind of performance. She will recite a set of three poems that she has composed, in a show titled Spotlight, on February 22, at The Hive in Khar (W).

Known for her offbeat film and theatre roles, as well as for being outspoken when it comes to social issues, Kalki Koechlin is now taking the stage for a different kind of performance. She will recite a set of three poems that she has composed, in a show titled Spotlight, on February 22, at The Hive in Khar (W).

Kalki-Koechlin

"I don’t write poetry often, but it’s a habit I have cultivated since childhood. I will be reading out some of my most recent work, written over the last two years. For me, poetry has to be relevant," says the actor.

Be it a monologue about women’s issues on International Women’s Day (March 8) last year, or a satirical video about rape, titled It’s Your Fault, which went viral in 2013, Kalki says it’s important for her to make a point socially with her work. "One of the poems deals with the issue of consumerism and the main piece is a sketch about contemporary India. It deals with issues such as politics, current affairs, violence, hatred, and more. The last one is a nursery rhyme that I feel will add some comic relief to the show," she explains.

Kalki, who is currently acting in a play about the life and work of Rabindranath Tagore, is also set to direct a stage production for the first time. Excited about the project, she says, "I’ve written a comedy piece about death. I plan to start directing it this summer. The thought behind it is that everyone has to face death; nobody is immortal. I’ve taken a philosophical approach. I hope I don’t lose my hair in the process."