Question

Tenali Rama Holds A Press Conference

Krishnadeva raya has just won a battle. There is an excitement in the Hampi, the capital of the Vijayanagar empire. The king has appointed Tenali Rama, his advisor to address a press conference.

One student can volunteer to role play Tenali Rama, one or two others may play the role of press officials assisting him.

A few students would act as press reporters. The press reporters will ask all types of questions related to the battle won, future plan of the king, any gossips, and so on.

As is his habit, Tenali Rama will handle the press reporters with his witty answers.

Answer 1

The Scene

Location: The Royal Courtyard, Hampi.

Atmosphere: High energy, smells of jasmine and victory incense, reporters clutching palm-leaf scrolls and styluses.

Sample Q & A for the Actors

Reporter 1: “King Tenali Rama spent a fortune on this battle. Is the royal treasury as empty as a broken coconut?”

Tenali Rama: “My dear friend, the treasury is like a well the more water you draw to give to the thirsty, the faster the fresh springs of prosperity refill it. Furthermore, a King’s truly wealth lies not in his gold, but in the fact that his adversaries have become his best customers!”

Reporter 2 (The Gossip): “We’re told the King only won when the enemy General stumbled over his own sword. Is it true?”

Tenali Rama: “Victory frequently favours those who remain on their feet. If the enemy chose to submit to the earth so fast, why are we to deny them their humility?”

Reporter 3: “What are the King’s future plans? Will he invade the north next?”

Tenali Rama: “The King’s primary immediate goal is to ensure that every person has enough ghee for their rice. As for the North... even the sun rests before ascending to the highest point, doesn't it?”

Quick Tips for the Roles

• For Tenali Rama: Never respond with “Yes” or “No”. Instead, use a metaphor, a short story, or a delicate insult wrapped in a compliment. Maintain a mischievous smile on your face.
• For the Press Officials: Act very serious and protective. Put it this way: “One question at a time!” and “The Poet-Advisor will not comment on the Queen's jewellery!”
• For the Reporters: Be assertive! To make the setting more alive, use sentences like “The people want to know...“ or “Rumour has it...”