Vinay Kumar, a theatre artist currently touring India with the play Urmila, emphasizes the importance of theatre in reflecting societal issues and bringing aesthetic values to the audience. He believes that theatre, along with other art forms, should be relevant and thought-provoking, addressing themes such as gender, politics, and social concepts. Vinay highlights how his play Urmila delves into power dynamics, consent, and agency within the relationship of Urmila and Lakshmana from the Ramayana, exploring contemporary relevance through reimagined ancient stories. As the managing trustee and artistic director of Adishakti, a theatre laboratory near Auroville, Vinay stresses the significance of these themes in engaging audiences and influencing their lives positively. He points out the need for dedicated theatre spaces in India, where a lack of suitable venues hinders the growth and accessibility of theatre as an art form.The specific requirements of theatre productions are crucial for the flourishing of this art form. While cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru have made progress in establishing such spaces, the real challenge lies in developing a nationwide network of such venues, according to him.
He emphasizes the importance of creating a space for radical ideas, stating that theatre spaces act as hubs where individuals can gather, exchange thoughts, and nurture their creative interests. These spaces facilitate the formation of bands, the emergence of writers, and the inspiration for filmmakers. Throughout history, iconic theatres have played a key role in fostering intellectual growth and unconventional ideas, offering individuals a safe environment to challenge existing norms. Without these spaces, there is a risk of people feeling compelled to conform to societal trends. The responsibility often falls on theatre practitioners to address this issue. He calls on governments to implement cultural policies and allocate resources to establish dedicated theatre spaces.
He stresses the need to encourage people to appreciate theatre in order to ensure its survival in the modern world. This involves reaching out to a wider audience, including those not familiar with the arts, and providing opportunities for them to develop an appreciation for theatre. Promoting exposure to various art forms, from literature to cinema, and creating an ecosystem where these forms can coexist and thrive are essential steps in achieving this goal, he explains.
Regarding the play "Urmila," which offers a fresh perspective on traditional narratives, it explores a seemingly innocuous statement made by Lakshmana: "Go and sleep for 14 years." This line serves as a catalyst for deeper examination, questioning the power dynamics between characters and challenging the logic behind Lakshmana's demand and its implications for Urmila. The play delves into issues of agency, autonomy, and self-assertion, as Urmila questions and defies the demand to sleep, highlighting her refusal to be passive in the face of such expectations.Ranga Shankara in Bengaluru will host events on September 20 and September 21.
