The city of Shivamogga is set to witness a dazzling display of performing arts as its City Corporation partners with the Havyasi Rangathandagala Kalavidara Sangha, a collective of passionate amateur theatre groups. Together, they are orchestrating ‘Ranga Dasara,’ a unique and vibrant segment of the annual Dasara festivities. This special celebration will feature an array of cultural showcases, including engaging dramas, dynamic street plays, soulful theatre music, and illuminating discussions on the craft of theatre.
The inaugural ceremony for Ranga Dasara is scheduled for Wednesday, September 24, at the prestigious Suvarna Samskruthi Bhavana. Renowned theatre director Ganesh Mandarthi will grace the occasion, officially kicking off the artistic programs, as announced by Kanthesh Kadaramandalagi, president of the association, during a recent press briefing in Shivamogga.
This ambitious festival boasts an impressive lineup of 52 distinct programs, bringing together more than 300 talented artists. Participation spans across various groups, from dedicated amateur theatre companies and enthusiastic college teams to vibrant collectives representing the unorganised sector, ensuring a truly inclusive community celebration.
A standout initiative, ‘Kutumba Ranga’ (Family Theatre), encourages local residents to transform their homes and neighborhoods into stages. ‘We extended an invitation to families to perform plays right where they live, turning their neighbors into their audience,’ explained Honnali Chandrashekhar, the association’s secretary. He proudly noted that 15 families have already embraced this concept. To further support this community-driven art, the City Corporation will provide an honorarium of ₹1,000 to each participating troupe, fostering greater public engagement in theatrical arts.
Among those present at the press conference were Madhu Nayak, an official from the Shivamogga City Corporation, and R.S. Halaswamy, representing the Native Theatre troupe, alongside other esteemed guests.