Mysuru: Noted artist Baadal Nanjundaswamy opined that, each of the Rangayana artistes were akin to encyclopaedia, who should be treated with respect by the society and the Government.

He was addressing the gathering after inaugurating five-day B.V. Karanth College Rangotsava-2024, organised by Rangayana at Bhoomigeeta auditorium, by painting on the canvas on Monday.

“I have been associated with Rangayana since my childhood and the artistes here have enormously contributed towards the growth of the repertory. They are like the pillars, due to whom several more Rangayanas were established. The Government should take into consideration, the Rangayana artistes, by roping in them even after their retirement, by opening a children’s theatre school and make judicious use of their experience,” said Baadal Nanjundaswamy.

With such a system, the senior artistes will emerge as a beacon of light for the children. But, the authorities haven’t treated them with due respect. They should be at least made the member of Ranga Samaja, said Baadal Nanjundaswamy.

Theatre and TV artiste Sushma Nanaiah, who released the handbills of Rangotsava, said that one should have a courage to embrace acting as a profession. Having participated in Rangotsava, several people present among the gathering may be having plans to make a career in acting. It is good on their part, but it would be even better, if it turns into a amateur profession, rather than considering it as a source for living, which is all encompassed with difficulties.

Sushma Nanaiah also recalled how her tryst with theatre began with College Rangotsava.

Member of Ranga Samaja H.S. Suresh Babu, Joint Director of Kannada & Culture Department V.N. Mallikarjunaswamy, Director of Rangayana Satish Tiptur, Assistant Director of Kannada & Culture Department Dr. M.D. Sudarshan, Convener of College Rangotsava K.R. Nandini and Co-ordinator Arsikere Yogananda were present.

On the occasion, students of Mahajana First Grade College, Mysuru, staged the play ‘Vasanta Yamini Swapna Chamatkara’ (based on Shakespeare’s ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’). The play was directed by V. Ranganath. 

Today at 6.30 pm, Hunsur’s Government Women’s First Grade College students will stage the play ‘Henmaklu Kathe Heltare,’ written and directed by M. Arjun.