Pics: Akshay
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)
Udupi, Nov 16: Rangabhoomi (R) Udupi, in collaboration with Yaksha Rangayana Karkala and Milagres College Kalyanpura, organised “Rangabhashe”, a three-day theatre workshop for college students at Milagres College. The event kicked off on November 16 with a symbolic lamp-lighting ceremony at the college auditorium.
In his inaugural address, Prasanna, the theatre director, said, “Today, we see the younger generation showing great interest in theater across the country, aspiring to become skilled actors. At times, I worry they are moving towards cinema and drifting away from our roots, but at other moments, I believe they are making a thoughtful choice. Theater emphasises heartfelt and peaceful communication. It teaches the language of meaningful dialogue, something that cannot be learned through other mediums. Even harsh truths in theater are presented with an element of entertainment, making them easier to digest. It’s a space for dialogue, not monologue, and it fosters the essential ability to listen and respond. If you aspire to lead, it starts with the ability to communicate effectively with the person beside you, and then with the wider public. In an era where technology has diminished real communication, and where theater has been overshadowed by cinema and OTT platforms, this workshop aims to rekindle the lost art of connection through theatre.”
Mandya Ramesh, artiste and director of Natana Mysuru, also spoke at the event, saying, “The survival of theatre depends on raising awareness among the younger generation. There is no medium as profound and impactful as theatre. While I cannot confront politicians directly, I channel my frustrations by portraying their characters on stage. Theatre is a celebration — it has given me the opportunity to connect with remarkable individuals. It fosters sensitivity, enhances communication skills, and teaches us how to express and question deeply. Theater encourages us to feel and connect from the depths of our hearts.”
Dr Vincent Alva, principal of Milagres College Kalyanpura, highlighted the significance of theater, saying, “This event offers a golden opportunity to share the stage with two distinguished theater legends. In today’s world, people often hesitate to speak the truth, but drama provides a platform to voice it courageously. While great works by authors sometimes face challenges in being included in textbooks, theater becomes a medium to present such truths. Effective communication leads to honesty, yet today’s generation, accustomed to speaking in shorthand and relying on copy-pasting, struggles with basic expression. Theater instills discipline, teaches authentic communication, and fosters a sense of timeliness and responsibility—values I prioritise as an educator.”
H Jayaprakash Kedilaya, convener of the Rangabhoomi Rangabhashe workshop, welcomed the gathering, and B R Venkatraman Aithal, director of Yaksha Rangayana Karkala, provided the introductory note.
Pradeepchandra Kuthpady, general secretary of Rangabhoomi Udupi, delivered the vote of thanks, while Raviraj compered the event.
Also present at the event were artiste and member of the Karnataka Theatre Society Shashidhar Bharigat, stage director Shweta Rani H K, special commissioner of Yaksha Rangayana Karkala Poornima, N Rajagopal Ballal, Bhaskar Rao Kediyoor, and other distinguished guests.