Vinay Kumar, a theatre artist currently touring India with his play "Urmila," emphasizes the importance of theatre in reflecting society's realities and addressing issues such as gender, politics, and social concepts. By reimagining ancient stories like the Ramayana to explore contemporary themes like consent and agency, theatre aims to engage audiences and have a meaningful impact on their lives. Vinay highlights the need for dedicated theatre spaces in India, noting that while there are venues for books and films, theatre often struggles to find suitable locations. He stresses the importance of having aesthetically pleasing and comfortable performance venues to support the growth of the art form.The unique requirements of theatre productions necessitate dedicated spaces for the art form to thrive. While Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru have shown progress in this area, the challenge lies in establishing a nationwide network of such venues, according to the speaker. Stressing the importance of creating a space for innovative ideas, he emphasizes that theatre venues serve as communal hubs for people to gather, exchange thoughts, and nurture their creative interests. These spaces play a pivotal role in facilitating the formation of artistic groups, the emergence of new writers, and the inspiration for filmmakers. Historically, iconic theatres have been instrumental in promoting intellectual development and avant-garde concepts, providing a sanctuary for individuals to question societal norms and challenge conventions. The absence of such spaces may lead to individuals feeling pressured to conform to prevailing trends, underscoring the responsibility of theatre practitioners to address this issue. The speaker calls on governments to enact cultural policies and allocate resources to establish dedicated theatre spaces to address this challenge.

Encouraging a broader appreciation for theatre is essential for its sustainability in today's society, notes the speaker. To achieve this, efforts must be made to engage a wider audience, including those with limited exposure to the arts. Providing opportunities for individuals to cultivate their interest in theatre involves introducing them to various art forms such as literature and cinema, and fostering an inclusive ecosystem where different art forms can coexist harmoniously.

Exploring a novel perspective on traditional narratives, the play "Urmila" delves into a seemingly innocuous statement by Lakshmana instructing Urmila to sleep for 14 years. This remark serves as a catalyst for a deeper examination of power dynamics between characters, questioning the validity of Lakshmana's demand and its implications for Urmila. The play delves into themes of agency, autonomy, and resistance as Urmila asserts her individuality and refuses to passively comply.Ranga Shankara in Bengaluru will be held on September 20 and September 21.