Great Expectations

In this adaptation of Great Expectations, Pip's journey unfolds in nineteenth-century India, exploring love, ambition, and the complexities of social class.

In Great Expectations, award-winning writer Tanika Gupta reimagines the classic tale, transporting it to the vibrant backdrop of nineteenth-century India. The story follows Pip, a poor village boy whose life takes a dramatic turn after two pivotal encounters. His first meeting with an escaped convict at the water’s edge instills a sense of fear and intrigue, while his second encounter at the decaying estate of Miss Haversham ignites a deep, unrequited love for the beautiful but cold Estella.

As Pip navigates his way through the complexities of life in Calcutta, aided by an anonymous benefactor, he embarks on a journey filled with ambition and desire. The narrative explores themes of social class, personal growth, and the pursuit of love, all while staying true to the essence of Charles Dickens’ original work. Gupta’s adaptation enriches the story with the cultural nuances of India, making the characters and their struggles resonate in a new light.

This coming-of-age tale captures the essence of Great Expectations, highlighting the richness of Dickens’ language and the colorful personalities that populate the story. Through Pip's extraordinary journey, readers are invited to reflect on their own aspirations and the often unpredictable nature of life and love. Gupta’s adaptation is a vivid theatrical retelling that breathes new life into a universally cherished masterpiece.