Vinay Kumar, a theatre artist currently touring India with his play Urmila, emphasizes that theatre's goal is to reflect society's aesthetics and provoke thought. He believes in the importance of addressing relevant issues such as gender, politics, and social concepts through art. Vinay highlights the significance of reimagining ancient stories like the Ramayana to explore philosophical themes that resonate with contemporary society. He stresses the need for dedicated theatre spaces in India to support the growth and accessibility of the performing arts.The specific requirements of theatre productions are crucial for the flourishing of this art form. While cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru have made strides in this area, the challenge lies in establishing a nationwide network of such spaces," he elaborates. "Creating a space for radical ideas is vital. A theatre venue acts as a hub where individuals can gather to exchange thoughts, delve into their creative interests, and foster collaboration. It serves as a platform for bands to form, writers to blossom, and filmmakers to draw inspiration. Throughout history, iconic theatres have played a key role in nurturing intellectual growth and progressive ideas. These spaces offer a sanctuary where individuals can challenge conventional norms. Without such venues, people might feel compelled to conform to prevailing trends and standards. This responsibility often falls on the shoulders of theatre practitioners. Governments should enact cultural policies and allocate resources to establish dedicated theatre venues," he suggests. "We need to encourage people to embrace theatre. The survival of theatre in today's society hinges on our ability to engage a broader audience, including those with no previous exposure to the arts. We should provide opportunities for people to cultivate their appreciation for theatre by introducing them to various art forms, ranging from literature to cinema, and creating an environment where all these forms can coexist and thrive," he emphasizes. "Urmila, the play, offers a new perspective on traditional narratives by exploring a seemingly casual remark made by Lakshmana: 'Go and sleep for 14 years.' This line serves as a starting point for deeper reflection. We interrogate how one individual can impose on another's life, body, freedom, or self-identity. We scrutinize the power dynamics between characters, questioning the rationale behind Lakshmana's directive and the implications for Urmila. She challenges the directive to sleep, asserting her autonomy and refusing to be passive," he shares. (Adishakti Theatre presents Urmila) Ranga Shankara will be in Bengaluru on September 20 and September 21.