Kathmandu We have often heard the story of Lichchhavi princess Bhrikuti, who got married to Tibetan emperor Songtsan Gampo and promoted Nepali art and culture in a foreign land. Playwright Saru Bhakta has written this often heard story in the form of a play — Harit Tara Bhrikuti. And debutant director Pabitra Khadka has given life to this historical play. Being staged at Shilpee Theatre, Battisputali from March 16, the play, while bringing forth the story from the past, highlights how a woman gave up her desires  and married a man from a distant land. Princess Bhrikuti (Kopila Dhakal) wants to live in a monastery. But her wish goes unaddressed as her marriage is fixed with Tibetan emperor Songtsan Gampo (Heman Tandukar). Initially, she is unwilling, but later the princess accepts the proposal — she feels it would be an opportunity for her to promote Nepali art and culture in a foreign land. The play then narrates the princess’ journey to Tibet, her achievement in promoting Nepali art and culture there, her success in constructing various stupas in Tibet along with several twists and turns in her life. The chemistry of Tandukar and Dhakal as husband and wife sizzles — they enchant the audience with their romance on stage. Sangita Urawa, as the princess’ helper, who is seen spying on others, makes the audience laugh with her funny acts. But Kopila and other actors — Keshabi Dhakal as queen, and Suman Kuikel as Dhaiaama — fail to impress with their dialogue delivery. Rather than a natural conversation, their dialogue delivery sounds like characters reading lines from texts. Usha Chaudary, who plays Wencheng, really needs to work on her pronunciation. The beautifully designed set is appealing  — white mountains painted on walls gives one a feel of Tibet. A good play of light was evident in the last scene of the play, where colourful lights fell on those mountains, creating a beautiful effect. In her debut directional, Khadka has missed in some aspects — there is room for shortening the play by editing certain scenes, including the lengthy dance scene. Other than that, the promising director has put forth an engaging production for the theatre lovers. The play is being staged everyday at 5:00 pm except on Tuesdays with an additional staging on Saturdays at 1:00 pm till April 1.