Arundhati Nag reflects on the theatre landscape when she established Ranga Shankara two decades ago. She shares her initial dreams, the realities faced, and the hopes she has for the theater's future. Ranga Shankara has become an iconic institution credited with transforming perceptions about theater. Initially seen as an art form for the intellectuals, Arundhati Nag notes that this perception has shifted over time. She believes that Ranga Shankara has played a significant role in altering how people engage with theater over the past 20 years. Previously, weekday attendance at plays was uncommon, but now it has become more widespread.

Though she considers theater a communal endeavor, Arundhati Nag also views it as her personal project at times, expressing wishes for actors to invest more in their craft. She praises the innovative work of some young theater groups while acknowledging the occasional laziness of others.

Arundhati Nag shares that Ranga Shankara had ambitious aspirations at its inception, many of which have been fulfilled through dedication and persistence. Despite the achievements, she acknowledges the ongoing challenges and the community's continual quest for improvement.

She observes a growing division between traditional and modern theater forms and reminisces about a time when theater was seen as a nationwide art form.States like Gujarat, Bengal, and Karnataka, among others, joined voices in a unified anti-colonial message. As India undergoes urbanization, the divide between traditional and urban theater is widening, reflecting a global trend worth monitoring. India boasts rich linguistic and theatrical diversity, a heritage worth preserving for future generations.

In 2004, a photo captured the opening night at Ranga Shankara. Two decades ago, there were approximately 50 theater groups; today, that number has doubled, highlighting the growth in the theater scene. While new talent is emerging, there is a desire to make theater more appealing to a wider audience and emphasize its cultural value.

Individuals who generously support the arts, like theater, without imposing restrictions are commendable. Their courage in backing artistic endeavors provides hope for the survival of artists and the nurturing of creative dreams in society.

Arundhati Nag advocates for exploring diverse experiences, noting that theater holds promise for the future. Compared to cinema or television, theater offers a more accessible and enriching cultural experience at an affordable cost, allowing for learning and self-discovery. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining generosity and striving for excellence in a rapidly changing world.I hope that Ranga Shankara will embody a spirit of kindness, generosity, and excellence even after we are no longer here. It's important to strike a balance between being generous and striving for excellence, as having both qualities is truly invaluable. Arundhati Nag and Girish Karnad were spotted mingling with literary figures at the event.