In contrast, Nandikar's versions of Leela Mazumdar's children's stories are less subtle, more direct. In typical large-cast Nandikar style, Andharmani brings dollops of colour to the tale of a boy scared of the dark, who must bring magical honey from a cave to cure his grandfather. Sudipta Kundu's choreography and Swatilekha Sengupta's music give vivid dynamics to the stage picture, but ultimately it remains a relatively straightforward narrative.

Duliya, Mazumdar's parable about a milkwoman carrying three pitcherfuls for her family, is even more simple to the point of predictability, which always spoils the surprise element in drama. The generous heroine gives all the milk away to hungry children on a train who ask her for it. Despite the altruistic message, Sohini Halder's one-woman show is handicapped by our early ability to foresee the conclusion.

Still, Nandikar's work in children's theatre remains creditable.