‘On a Lucid Day, My Name is Vinod Rao’ – A Stirring Portrayal of Dementia Leaves Bengaluru Audiences Deeply Moved

The recently concluded English play “On a Lucid Day, My Name is Vinod Rao” captivated Bengaluru audiences over the weekend, leaving them with tears, laughter, and deep reflection. Written and directed by Dr. G.K. Jayaram, the play shed light on the emotional and social realities of living with dementia not just for the patient, but for the families who walk the long road of caregiving and loss.

Staged at Nani Angala, Suchitra Film Society, and Dr. H.N. Multimedia Hall, National College, the two performances drew full houses, resounding applause and standing ovation. The production, presented by Ekalavya Players, blended humour, empathy, and insight to portray the complexities of memory, identity, and love through the story of Professor Vinod Rao, an 82-year-old retired psychology professor diagnosed with Stage 2.5 Dementia.

As the protagonist oscillates between moments of lucidity and confusion, the play gently explores his world, a devoted but weary wife, an overworked caregiver, and a family seeking answers amid emotional chaos. The powerful performances by Dr. G.K. Jayaram, Sudha Prasad, Kesari Prasad, M.K. Sridhar, Kalpana Udayakumar, and Suma Mahesh Chandra brought the audience face-to-face with the tenderness and turmoil that surround mental decline in old age.

Speaking about the play, Dr. Jayaram said, “Dementia is not just a medical condition it’s a human experience that tests love, patience, and understanding. Through this play, I wanted to bring people closer to the emotional truth of those living with memory loss and those caring for them.”

Beyond its artistic merit, the play carried a strong social message. The proceeds from both shows were donated to Kasturi Trust, a non-profit organisation founded by Dr. Jayaram that provides quality English-medium education, meals, and scholarships to children from underprivileged backgrounds. The initiative aims to bridge opportunity gaps and empower families to rise out of poverty through education.

Audience members described the production as “profoundly moving” and “a mirror to every household touched by aging or illness.” The play not only raised awareness about dementia, a growing public health concern but also opened conversations about empathy, caregiving, and the dignity of the elderly.

“On a Lucid Day, My Name is Vinod Rao” stands as a testament to how art can humanize complex issues and inspire communities to reflect and act with compassion.

Note from the production team:We invite anyone who wishes to help the families of Dementia victims to form Support Groups, to our home for an exploratory discussion. Please write to gkjayaram@ilid.org