The plays Vipranarayana and Oka Mahapathanam bagged the Golden Garuda award in the mythological and social play categories at the 55th All India Theatre Festival 2010 conducted in Tirupati last week. Minister for Roads and Buildings Galla Arunakumari gave away the prizes to the respective troupes — Vivekananda Nagar Colony Cultural Association (Hyderabad) and Kala Niketan (Veerannapalem).
Two dozen plays were performed during the nine-day event organised by Sri Venkateswara Natyakala Parishat with financial assistance from the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). Artistes and troupes from all over the state took part and showcased their talent in theatre art, mono-action and light music categories.
Arunakumari informed that the Government had earmarked Rs. 22 crore for the benefit of poor artistes. G. Balaramaiah, secretary, State Intermediate Board, donned the greasepaint and portrayed a crucial role in the social play Nishiddhakshari that turned out to be a highlight. A special performance of Ammaku palu pattandi , dwelling on the poor state of Telugu language, was also given by Subbaraju Natyakala Parishat at the closing ceremony.
