Vinay Kumar, a theatre artist currently on tour in Bengaluru with his play Urmila, believes that the goal of theatre is to reflect society's aesthetics and provoke thought through relevant themes like gender, politics, and social concepts. He emphasizes the importance of reimagining ancient stories like the Ramayana for their philosophical elements, as demonstrated in his play exploring power dynamics between Urmila and Lakshmana. Managing trustee of Adishakti, a theatre laboratory near Auroville, Vinay stresses the need for dedicated theatre spaces in India to support the creative arts effectively. He highlights the challenge of finding suitable venues for showcasing theatre compared to other art forms like publishing books or screening films.The unique requirements of theatrical productions are crucial for the art form to thrive. Although progress has been made in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru, the main challenge lies in establishing a nationwide network of such venues, as explained by him. "Establishing spaces for radical ideas is vital," he emphasizes. Theatre spaces serve as hubs where individuals can gather, exchange ideas, and pursue their creative interests. They are platforms where bands are formed, writers are nurtured, and filmmakers are inspired. Throughout history, renowned theaters have played a key role in nurturing intellectual growth and unconventional ideas. These spaces offer a sanctuary where individuals can challenge conventional norms and beliefs. Without these spaces, people may feel compelled to conform to prevailing trends. This responsibility often rests on the shoulders of theater practitioners. Governments should introduce cultural policies and allocate resources to create dedicated theater spaces, he suggests. "Encouraging people to appreciate theater is essential," he adds. "The survival of theater today hinges on our ability to engage a broader audience, including those less familiar with the arts. We must provide opportunities for people to cultivate their love for theater. This entails introducing them to various art forms, from literature to cinema, and fostering an environment where these art forms can coexist and flourish," he elaborates. "Urmila, THE PLAY OFFERS A FRESH PERSPECTIVE ON TRADITIONAL NARRATIVES." Urmila delves into a seemingly innocent remark by Lakshmana: 'Go and sleep for 14 years.' "This line serves as a starting point for exploration. It prompts us to ponder how one person can impose on another's life, body, freedom, or self-identity. We scrutinize the power dynamics among the characters, questioning the rationale behind Lakshmana's request and the implications for Urmila. She challenges the directive to sleep, asserting her autonomy and rejecting passivity," he conveys. (Adishakti Theatre presents Urmila)Ranga Shankara in Bengaluru will be hosting events on September 20 and September 21.