Theatre artist Vinay Kumar believes that the essence of theatre is to reflect society. He asserts that theatre, ranging from local productions to extravagant shows, endeavors to present the world's beauty to audiences. Vinay emphasizes the importance of art being pertinent and stimulating by tackling significant issues such as gender, politics, and social themes. Currently touring India with his play Urmila, written and directed by Nimmy Raphel, Vinay shares that the play delves into the power dynamics between characters Urmila and Lakshmana from the Ramayana, prompting discussions on consent, agency, and relevance to contemporary society. As the managing trustee and artistic director of Adishakti, a theatre laboratory near Auroville, Vinay stresses the significance of reinterpreting ancient stories for their philosophical essence rather than mere novelty. He notes that these themes resonate with modern society, influencing individuals and sparking conversations in their lives. Vinay suggests that appreciating theatre is akin to acquiring a taste for specific foods, requiring exposure and time to develop an understanding and admiration for the art form. Moreover, Vinay highlights the challenge faced by the theatre community in India, pointing out the scarcity of dedicated performance spaces as a major hindrance to the growth of theatre as an art form.The specific requirements of theater productions are crucial for the flourishing of this art form. While cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru have made strides in meeting these needs, the real challenge lies in establishing a nationwide network of such spaces," he elaborates. "Establishing a venue for radical ideas is imperative. A theater space serves as a hub where individuals can gather, exchange thoughts, and explore their creative interests. It acts as a place for the formation of bands, the emergence of writers, and the inspiration for filmmakers. Throughout history, iconic theaters have played a significant role in nurturing intellectual growth and unconventional thoughts. These spaces offer a sanctuary where individuals can challenge prevailing norms. Without such spaces, people may feel compelled to conform to established trends and standards. This responsibility often falls on theater practitioners. Governments should implement cultural policies and allocate resources to establish dedicated theater venues," he stresses. "It is crucial to encourage people to appreciate theater. The survival of theater today hinges on the ability to engage a broader audience, including those with limited exposure to the arts. We must provide avenues for individuals to develop a deeper appreciation for theater by introducing them to various art forms, ranging from literature to cinema, and fostering an environment where all these forms can coexist and thrive," he states. "In the play 'Urmila,' we explore a profound reinterpretation of traditional narratives. The production delves into a seemingly innocuous comment made by Lakshmana: 'Go and sleep for 14 years.' This line serves as a pivotal starting point, prompting us to question how one person can dictate another's life, body, freedom, or self-identity. We scrutinize the power dynamics between characters, challenging the rationale behind Lakshmana's directive and examining the repercussions for Urmila. Urmila, in turn, resists the demand to sleep, asserting her agency and rejecting passivity," he shares. (Adishakti Theatre presents 'Urmila')Ranga Shankara in Bengaluru will be hosting events on September 20th and 21st.