Prakash Raj advocates for a platform to nurture the skills of the upcoming generation of theatre artists.
Chokkapan SIt was during one of my trips that I realised I needed to return to theatre, says veteran actor Prakash Raj. “But the question was, how? Should I act, direct or do something different and...
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Veteran actor Prakash Raj realized his desire to return to theater during one of his trips. The question was how to do it - act, direct, or try something new to make an impact. He eventually chose to establish an incubator model called Nirdigantha, which translates to 'endless horizons', to encourage creativity and innovation in performing arts. This theater incubator provides a platform for young enthusiasts to hone their skills, develop their work, and experiment with new ideas and expressions. Prakash Raj aims to nurture talent, empower artists, and promote diverse artistic expressions through this initiative.

The incubator offers directors and actors support in developing original plays, including funding, accommodation, and other necessities for up to 45 days. The resulting productions are taken on tour for three months, allowing artists to gain practical experience and exposure. Prakash Raj's vision is to expand the reach of theater beyond Bengaluru, tapping into talent from various regions like North and South Karnataka. The goal is to create synergy among different art forms and revive a connection between literature, theater, art, and cinema.Aspiring theatre artists who aim to create a space for pure artistic exploration, rather than a platform for activism or stagnation, have come up with a research-focused initiative named Shalaranga. This project is not intended to prepare or train children in theatre, but is conceptualized as a research endeavor. While traditional education systems often prioritize subjects like mathematics and science, it is also important to incorporate aspects such as social justice, sensitivity, and scientific temper to make the system more inclusive and innovative. Recognizing the significance of theatre as an educational tool, a curriculum has been developed to align with the goals of such an educational system. A team of 12 members has been trained over three months to travel to various locations and perform numerous shows each year, with a focus on documenting the impact of the entire process.

Actor Prakash Raj notes that since the pandemic, audiences have displayed a growing interest in pan-Indian content. He believes that the audience has become more pan-Indian, rather than the films themselves, and appreciates collaborative efforts to bring diverse cultures together. Praising the intricacies of different languages, he delves deep into each language when preparing for a new role in order to authentically connect with the audience.