Music director Hamsalekha has underlined the need for cultural organisations and educational institutions to encourage school students to involve in theatre which will lead to the development of Kannada theatre and also help nurture, propagate and develop Kannada language too.
He was here to inaugurate a three-day State-level students’ drama festival organised by Rangathorana, a local cultural organisation, at Dr. Joladarashi Doddanagouda Rangamandir on Saturday.
Mr. Hamsalekha said that Kannada was facing a major threat from English. Producing more Kannada plays and involving school children and youth in the process would not only protect Kannada from the onslaught of English but would also develop theatre.
According to him, theatre and its personalities still enjoyed honour and respect because of their perfection in all aspects. “Unlike in the past, not many actors in the Kannada film industry have a theatre background. As such, though a lot many films in Kannada were being produced, quality is missing. To refurbish the image of Kannada film there is a need for good actors having theatre background,” he said.
Rajappa Dalwai, writer, theatre personality and professor in Rani Chennamma University, who has been chosen president of the drama festival, recalled the rich cultural tradition of the State and also the contribution of theatre personalities for the enrichment and development of Kannada. “Theatre has a capability to spread love and affection besides bringing in social change. I appeal to the State government to establish more Rangayanas, in all the districts if possible, to groom good actors and also to propagate and develop the rich cultural tradition of the State,” he said.
Belagal Veeranna, renowned shadow leather puppetry exponent and chairman of Yakshagana and Bylaata Academy, R. Bhimsen, president of Rangathorana, were present. As many as 20 troupes from various parts of the State will stage plays during the festival.
