A scene from the play "The Goal of Theatre", according to Vinay Kumar, is to reflect society's essence. He emphasizes the importance of making theatre and art relevant and stimulating by addressing issues such as gender, politics, and social concepts. Vinay, currently touring India with his play "Urmila" in Bengaluru, co-written and directed by Nimmy Raphel, explains how their play explores power dynamics in relationships, raises questions on consent and agency, and draws relevance to contemporary society. He believes in reimagining ancient stories like the Ramayana for their philosophical essence. Vinay, a managing trustee and artistic director of Adishakti near Auroville, expresses the need for cultivated taste in appreciating art forms like theatre. He also points out the challenge of lacking dedicated theatre spaces in India, emphasizing the importance of having suitable venues designed for showcasing theatrical performances.The unique requirements of theater productions are crucial for the growth of this art form. While cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru have made strides in this area, the real challenge lies in establishing a nationwide network of such performance spaces," he points out.
"Establishing venues for innovative ideas is crucial," he emphasizes. "A theater space functions as a hub where individuals can gather, exchange ideas, and nurture their creative interests. It acts as a catalyst for bands to form, writers to flourish, and filmmakers to draw inspiration. Throughout history, renowned theaters have been instrumental in promoting critical thinking and unconventional ideas. These spaces provide a sanctuary where individuals can challenge established norms. Without such spaces, there is a risk of people feeling pressured to conform to prevailing trends. It is primarily the responsibility of theater practitioners to address this challenge. Governments should implement cultural policies and allocate resources to create dedicated theater spaces," he notes.
"We need to promote an appreciation for theater among a broader audience for its continued existence," he stresses. "Our focus should be on introducing people, regardless of their artistic background, to various art forms, ranging from literature to cinema, and supporting an environment where all these forms can coexist and flourish," he adds.
The play, Urmila, offers a fresh perspective on traditional narratives by exploring a seemingly casual remark by Lakshmana: 'Go and sleep for 14 years.' "This line serves as a starting point for deeper exploration. We delve into questions about personal autonomy, power dynamics between characters, and the implications of Lakshmana's demand on Urmila. The play challenges the expectation for Urmila to comply, highlighting her agency and refusal to be passive," he elaborates.
(Adishakti Theatre presents Urmila)Ranga Shankara in Bengaluru will be hosting events on September 20 and September 21.
