Media Release
Mangaluru, Sep 3: Milagres College, Mangaluru, in association with the Kannada teachers’ Association of Mangalore University (Vikas), jointly organised a one-day national seminar on “Kannada Literature and Theatre” on September 3, 2026 in the college auditorium. The seminar was organised by the Department of Kannada, Bhasha Sangama and IQAC of Milagres College, with the objective of exploring the close relationship between Kannada literature and theatre and their contribution to society and culture.
Inaugurating the seminar, renowned theatre personality and director Janni (Janardhan) of Rangayana, Mysuru, said that Kannada literature and theatre are mutually complementary and have played a significant role in taking Kannada cultural and social thought to the masses. The strength of a nation, he said, is reflected through the quality of its literature.
He observed that adapting literary works for the stage is a highly sensitive and creative process in which the essence of the original work must be preserved while transforming it into the language of theatre. The author’s imagination, director’s perspective, actors’ performance, stage design, lighting, music and the audience’s response collectively contribute to transforming a literary work into a living theatrical experience, he said.
Presiding over the programme, Fr Ivan Michael Rodrigues, correspondent of Milagres Educational Institutions, said that the seminar was not merely a platform to discuss literature and theatre, but also an important initiative to connect literature with theatre, theatre with society, and young people with creativity.
Dr. Dhananjaya Kumble, president of the SVP Kannada Study Centre, Mangalore University, released a book containing the research papers presented at the seminar. Dr. Pavithra, Assistant Professor, Department of Performing Arts, Pondicherry University, delivered the keynote address.
The programme was attended by rev. Dr. Alwin Serrao, principal of Milagres College; Dr. Mahesh M., assistant professor of Kannada, Christ Academy Institute of Law (CAIL), Bengaluru; and Dr. Chinnaswamy N., president of Vikas, along with faculty members, theatre enthusiasts and literature lovers.
At the valedictory ceremony, Prof Madhava M K., professor, Central University of Kerala, delivered the concluding address.
Seminar coordinator Mamatha Shetty welcomed the gathering. Lecturer Priya Bhat compered the programme, while Sowmya Kotian, head of the Department of Kannada, proposed the vote of thanks.
The seminar concluded on a vibrant note with a stage play, ‘Maha Ile’, based on selected stories and poems, presented by the college faculty, leaving the audience with a memorable blend of literature, theatre and creative expression.