Mysuru: ‘Chinnara Mela-2019’, the popular summer camp for children organised by Rangayana took off last evening at Vanaranga in Kalamandira premises with renowned artiste Ramachandra Hadapad administering the ‘Rangasangeetha Deekshe’ to children chanting ‘Kayo Sri Gowri’ composed by Jayachamaraja Wadiyar, ‘Karunalu baa belake’ by B.M. Sri and ‘Lola lotte’ by Saint Purandaradasa.

Assamese movie director Barul Islam and other dignitaries participated. Barul Islam opined that children participating in theatre activities would groom their wisdom to become responsible citizens in future, if not as good artistes. He added that significant changes could be seen in such children’s social awareness and thinking capacity.

Rangayana Director Bhagrathibai Kadam said that a person can present music or dance solo but a play needs more persons and claimed ‘Chinnara Mela’ as a unique platform for children to exhibit talent. She said that the 26-day event would provide ample opportunities for  children to learn and perform.

Over 450 children in the age group of 7 to 14 years are participating in the event who have been distributed to 9 groups with catchy names like ‘Sarala jeevana’, ‘Samaya pragne’, ‘Kalaji’, ‘Dhrusti’, ‘Vishwasa’, ‘Antharmukhi’, ‘Anuraga’, ‘Parivarthana’, ‘Sneha’ and ‘Sweekara’.

Artistes presented a cultural and folk programme.

Joint Secretary of Rangayana Mallikarjuna Swamy was present on the occasion.