According to Vinay Kumar, a theatre artist currently touring India with his play Urmila, theatre serves as a reflection of society, aiming to present the aesthetics of the world to audiences. He emphasizes the importance of artistic relevance and thought-provocation, tackling issues such as gender, politics, and social concepts. Vinay highlights how his play Urmila delves into power dynamics within the relationship of characters from the Ramayana, exploring themes like consent and agency which remain pertinent today. He stresses the significance of reimagining ancient stories not for their novelty, but for the philosophical ideas they convey. As the managing trustee of Adishakti, a theatre laboratory near Auroville, Vinay discusses how these themes resonate with contemporary society, impacting individuals and sparking reflection in their own lives. He also addresses the need for dedicated theatre spaces in India, citing a lack of venues designed specifically for showcasing theatrical performances as a primary challenge faced by the creative community."The specific requirements of theatre productions are crucial for the flourishing 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.

"Creating a platform for innovative ideas is vital," he emphasizes. "A theatre venue acts as a communal space where individuals can gather, exchange thoughts, and pursue their creative interests. It serves as a hub for artists to connect, writers to emerge, and filmmakers to draw inspiration. Throughout history, renowned theatres have played a significant role in nurturing intellectual development and revolutionary concepts. These venues offer a sanctuary where individuals can challenge conventional beliefs. Without such spaces, individuals may feel compelled to adhere to prevailing trends and standards. It is a responsibility that often rests on the shoulders of theatre practitioners. Governments should enforce cultural policies and allocate resources to establish dedicated theatre venues," he states.

"We must foster an appreciation for theatre among the general public," he insists. "The survival of theatre in today's society hinges on our capacity to engage a broader audience, including those with limited exposure to the arts. It is essential to provide opportunities for people to cultivate their love for theatre. This entails introducing them to diverse art forms, ranging from literature to cinema, and nurturing an environment where these various forms can coexist harmoniously and thrive," he elaborates.

"Urmila, the play, presents a fresh perspective on conventional narratives," he reveals. Urmila delves into Lakshmana's seemingly innocuous comment: 'Go and sleep for 14 years.' "This line acts as a springboard for our exploration. We pose questions such as: How can one individual infringe upon another's life, body, freedoms, or self-identity? We scrutinize the power dynamics between characters, challenging the rationale behind Lakshmana's directive and the repercussions for Urmila. She questions the demand to sleep, asserting her autonomy and rejecting passivity," he shares. (Adishakti Theatre introduces Urmila to the audience.)Ranga Shankara in Bengaluru is scheduled for performances on September 20 and September 21.