Vinay Kumar, a theatre artist currently touring India with the play Urmila, emphasizes that theatre aims to reflect societal aspects and bring aesthetics to the audience. He believes it is vital for art forms to address relevant issues such as gender, politics, and social concepts to provoke thought. Vinay explains that their play Urmila explores power dynamics in the relationship between Urmila and Lakshmana from the Ramayana, touching on consent, agency, and approval that remain pertinent today. He stresses the importance of reimagining ancient stories not for their novelty, but for the philosophical ideas they convey. Vinay, the managing trustee of Adishakti, a theatre laboratory near Auroville, underlines the contemporary relevance of such themes in society and their impact on audiences' lives. In a conversation, he compares acquiring a taste for theatre to developing an appreciation for blue cheese over time through exposure. Vinay states that the main obstacle for theatre practitioners is the lack of dedicated performance spaces in India, highlighting the need for venues that are aesthetically pleasing, comfortable, and designed for theatrical showcases."Fulfilling the specific requirements of theatre productions is crucial for the growth of this art form. While cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru have made advancements in this area, the real challenge lies in establishing a nationwide network of such spaces," he explains.

"Establishing a space for innovative ideas is essential," he continues. "A theatre venue acts as a hub where individuals can gather, exchange thoughts, and nurture their creative interests. It serves as a platform for bands to unite, writers to emerge, and filmmakers to be inspired. Throughout history, renowned theatres have played a pivotal role in nurturing intellectual development and radical concepts. These venues offer a sanctuary where individuals can question the status quo. Without such spaces, people may feel compelled to adhere to existing norms and trends, posing a challenge that largely rests on the shoulders of theatre practitioners. Governments should implement cultural policies and allocate resources to create dedicated theatre facilities," he suggests.

"We need to promote an appreciation for theatre among people," he remarks. "The sustainability of theatre today hinges on our ability to engage a broader audience, including those not familiar with the arts. It is essential to provide avenues for individuals to cultivate their love for theatre by exposing them to various art forms, from literature to cinema, and fostering an environment where these art forms can coexist and thrive," he elaborates.

"Urmila, a play that offers a fresh perspective on traditional narratives, delves into a seemingly casual comment by Lakshmana: 'Go and sleep for 14 years,'" he describes. "This line serves as a starting point for exploration. We question how one person can encroach upon another's life, body, freedom, or self-identity. We analyze the power dynamics between characters, scrutinizing the rationale behind Lakshmana's directive and the repercussions for Urmila. Urmila challenges the directive to sleep, asserting her autonomy and refusing to be passive," he shares. (Adishakti Theatre presents Urmila.)Ranga Shankara in Bengaluru will be hosting events on September 20 and September 21.