Theatre isn’t just a reflection of society’s imperfections; it’s a powerful engine for individual and collective social development, asserted Ramesh Londonkar, Registrar of Gulbarga University. His remarks came during the inauguration of ‘Karantara Ranganinada,’ a vibrant program held at the Rangayana auditorium in Kalaburagi.
Organized by the Department of Kannada and Culture and Rangayana, the Friday event celebrated the birth anniversary of the legendary theatre icon, B.V. Karanth. The commemoration began with heartfelt floral tributes to Karanth, accompanied by the resounding beats of the traditional nagari drum.
“Theatre provides an unparalleled platform for nurturing talent and fostering societal reform,” stated Professor Londonkar. “While I may not be a performer myself, I hold a deep admiration for the theatrical arts. They impart invaluable life lessons and, as such, deserve our unwavering support and preservation.”
Remembered as ‘Rangabhishma’ for his groundbreaking contributions to Indian and Kannada theatre, B.V. Karanth was also a versatile talent in music and cinema, known for staging plays across numerous languages, far beyond Kannada.
Annaji Krishna Reddy, Professor of Performing Arts at Vijayanagara Sri Krishnadevaraya University, Ballari, expressed concern over artists drifting away from Rangayana. He urged for concerted efforts to draw them back to the stage, particularly through engaging programs designed for youth and students. Professor Reddy also emphasized the need for Rangayana to expand its reach into rural communities.
Echoing these sentiments, Basavaraj Hoogar, Joint Director of the Kannada and Culture Department, highlighted B.V. Karanth’s remarkable ability to transform even remote, underdeveloped villages into thriving theatre hubs, capturing international attention. “Theatre is a potent tool for social change, and it’s incumbent upon artists to ensure its enduring presence,” Hoogar stressed.
The audience also engaged in an insightful interaction with singer and composer Raghav Kammar, who shared illuminating details about Karanth’s extraordinary life and artistic legacy. The ceremony concluded with the presentation of certificates to 13 students who excelled in essay competitions focused on Karanth’s life. The evening was further enriched by a soulful musical performance by Siddarth Chinmay Idlai and his talented team.
The event was gracefully presided over by Sujata Jangamashetti, Director of Kalaburagi Rangayana. Notable attendees also included Hindustani classical vocalist Ramesh Kulkarni and Jagadishwari Nashi, Assistant Director of the Kannada and Culture Department.