In the play, "The Goal of Theatre," Vinay Kumar emphasizes the importance of theater in reflecting society. He believes that theater plays a crucial role in presenting the aesthetics of the world and addressing relevant issues such as gender, politics, and social concepts. Vinay, a theater artist currently touring India with the play "Urmila," written and directed by Nimmy Raphel, explains how their production explores power dynamics, consent, agency, and approval in the relationship between characters from the Ramayana. He stresses the significance of reimagining ancient stories for their philosophical elements and relevance to contemporary society. Vinay, also a managing trustee and artistic director of Adishakti, highlights the need for dedicated theatre spaces in India and how this scarcity poses a challenge for the theater community.The unique requirements of theatre productions are crucial for the growth of this art form. Although progress has been made in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru, the real challenge lies in establishing a nationwide network of such spaces, as explained by the speaker. "It is essential to create spaces that allow for radical ideas to thrive. A theatre venue serves as a gathering place for individuals to come together, exchange thoughts, and nurture their creative interests. It acts as a platform where music bands, writers, and filmmakers can connect and draw inspiration. Throughout history, iconic theatres have played a significant role in fostering intellectual development and revolutionary concepts. These environments offer a refuge where individuals can challenge conventional practices. Without such spaces, people may feel compelled to conform to existing norms and trends. The responsibility often rests on theatre practitioners to address this issue. Governments should devise cultural policies and allocate resources to establish dedicated theatre venues," the speaker emphasizes.

"We must strive to cultivate a broader appreciation for theatre to ensure its relevance in today's world. It is imperative to engage a diverse audience, including those unfamiliar with the arts. Providing opportunities for people to develop their admiration for theatre involves introducing them to various art forms, ranging from literature to cinema, and creating a supportive ecosystem where these art forms can coexist harmoniously," the speaker elaborates.

"Urmila," a play, challenges traditional narratives by exploring a seemingly innocuous statement made by Lakshmana: 'Go and sleep for 14 years.' "This line serves as a catalyst for deeper exploration. We pose questions around individual autonomy, power dynamics between characters, and the implications of Lakshmana's demand on Urmila. She asserts her agency by questioning the directive to sleep and rejecting a passive role," the speaker shares. (Adishakti Theatre presents Urmila)Ranga Shankara in Bengaluru will be hosting events on both September 20 and September 21.