A scene from the play ‘Dharma Kshetram’ staged in Visakhapatnam
History is replete with tales of dauntless bravery, heroic chivalry and unswerving loyalty to the crown that carry their own emotive appeal. Couched in peppy dialogue and delivered through theatrical idiom the historical play Dharma Kshetram , staged at Kalabharati, Visakhapatnam recently captured the hearts of the audience. The theme was tale of Viswanatha Nayaka who marched against his own father Nagama Nayaka and delivered him as captive to the emperor Srikrishna Devaraya of Vijayanaraga empire during 16th century AD.
Nagama Nayaka, was one of the able and shrewd generals of Srikrishna Devaraya. In the early 16th century, the Chola ruler Veerasekara Chola invaded and annexed Madhurai and deposed the Pandya king Chandrasekara Pandian, a vassal to Srikrishna Devaraya. He briefs the court of Vijayanagara about it and seeks protection. Consequently the emperor ordered immediate military action under the command of General Kotikam Nagama Nayaka. The general crushed the foe in no time and restored order in the disturbed region.
However,he experiences the pomp and grandeur in restoring the order. Driven by a a desire to establish his own dynasty, Nagama Nayaka rebels against the emperor and usurps the throne. Infuriated at this treachery, Krishna Devaraya commands that someone bring Nagama Nayaka to his knees. When no one dares to head the mission to fight the fierce General, his own son Viswnatha Nayaka volunteers and successfully carries out the mission and finally presents his father as captive before the emperor. Pleased with his loyalty the emperor appoints Viswanatha Nayaka as the governor of Madhurai and its adjacent provinces. Later, this leads to the formation of Nayaka Kingdom of Madhurai.
Rich period costumes, backdrop and stage props ensured the period ambience on stage and each of the characters was well-portrayed with a clear grasp of its emotive contours. Veteran K Vijayalakshmi, who directed it, donned the role of Nagulamba with aplomb. G S Prasad Reddy scripted it. A team of more than 20 artistes of KV Memorial Arts staged the play hosted by Visakha Music and Dance Academy.
