Vinay Kumar believes that the essence of theater is to reflect societal realities. He emphasizes the importance of theater and other art forms being relevant and thought-provoking by addressing issues such as gender, politics, and social concepts. Vinay, an accomplished theater artist currently touring India with his play Urmila, highlights how theater reimagines ancient stories like the Ramayana to explore contemporary themes like consent and agency. As the managing trustee of Adishakti, a theater laboratory near Auroville, Vinay stresses the relevance of these themes in today's society. He also discusses the need for dedicated theater spaces in India, pointing out the scarcity of venues tailored for theater performances compared to those available for other art forms like publishing and film screenings.Theatre productions have specific needs to thrive. Without adequate spaces, this art form cannot prosper. While Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru have made advancements in this area, the real challenge lies in establishing a nationwide network of such venues. According to him, "Creating a space for radical ideas is crucial." A theatre space acts as a hub where individuals can gather, exchange thoughts, and nurture their creative interests. It serves as a platform for fostering new talent, sparking innovation, and challenging societal norms. Iconic theatres have historically been pivotal in stimulating intellectual discourse and pushing boundaries. These spaces offer a sanctuary for individuals to push back against conformity and explore innovative ideas. The responsibility often falls on theatre practitioners to address this issue. Governments should formulate cultural policies and dedicate resources to develop dedicated theatre spaces, he asserts.
He adds, "We must strive to cultivate a broader audience for theatre to ensure its sustainability in today's world, encompassing those with varying levels of exposure to the arts." Providing avenues for people to develop an appreciation for theatre involves introducing them to diverse art forms, ranging from literature to cinema, and fostering an environment where all these forms can flourish together.
The play "Urmila" offers a fresh perspective on traditional narratives by exploring a seemingly innocuous statement made by Lakshmana: 'Go and sleep for 14 years.' This line serves as a launchpad for deeper examination of power dynamics between characters, particularly questioning Lakshmana's demand and its implications for Urmila. The play delves into issues of agency, freedom, and self-definition as Urmila challenges the demand imposed on her, asserting her independence and refusing to be passive.Ranga Shankara in Bengaluru will be hosting events on September 20 and September 21.
