Theatre is losing base in Kerala because of the lack of socially relevant themes, noted film-maker Lenin Rajendran has said.
Inaugurating the P.M. Taj Commemoration programme in Kozhikode on Sunday, Mr. Lenin said the organisations that once patronised theatre were gradually losing interest in it, leading to a lack of support base for the art form.
Prominent toolMr. Rajendran said that theatre was a prominent tool for social change in Kerala at one point in time.
P.M. Taj was the last link to that heritage.
“Taj was a dramatist and actor who knew the true meaning of the word ‘Modern Drama’. He blended the social relevant issues into his plays quite effortlessly and most of his themes are timeless. Even with a strong leaning towards the Leftist movement, Taj had avoided using political themes in his plays”, Mr. Rajendran added.
Migration of artistesThe film-maker said the migration of several talented artistes to cinema had also spelled doom for the theatre movement in the State.
He appreciated the effort put forth by some youngsters recently to revive it.
Kozhikode Corporation Health Standing Committee Chairperson and a member of the Purogamana Kalasahitya Sangham State committee Janamma Kunhunni presided over the function while social critic K.E.N. Kunhammad spoke on the topic ‘Freedom, expression, Democracy’.
A book ‘Kambolamanushyarude Prime time Recipekal’ by V.K. Dileep was released on the occasion by Mr. Lenin.
A play ‘Kuzhivettunnavarodu’ by School of Drama Alumni was staged after the function.
The three-day P.M. Taj commemoration programmes kicked off on Saturday with a few street plays being held in the city.
A screening of documentaries and short films on Sunday morning was another highlight of the programme.
A get-together of theatre persons will be held at the Town hall on Monday morning.
The programme will conclude with a valedictory function at 5 pm.