Mysore/Mysuru: ‘Drishya Raga Rangasangama,’ a free theatre training camp organised by Karnataka Nataka Academy in association with Kannada and Culture Department and Suthra Foundation, Mysuru, was inaugurated by Administrative Officer of Chamarajendra Government College of Visual Arts (CAVA), Nirmala Mathapati, at Sriranga auditorium, Rangayana premises in the city on Monday.

Speaking on the occasion, Nirmala Mathapati said, theatre is the foundation of all art forms and the art which can be likened to kite and the artiste, can fly to dizzying heights.  Be it any form of art or literary style, humanity should be developed on the foundation of humanitarian values. Or else, it cannot be classified as either literature or art. Most importantly, theatre acts as a therapy to the internal squabbles among human beings, followed by jealousy, hatred and greed, she said.

Dr. Jahida Kodagu, Member of Karnataka Nataka Academy said, theatre which is society-oriented and awakens society through plays, has nowadays become costly, with the very art form being used for monetary gain.

“With the extensive usage of TV, mobile phone and social media, the youngsters have become isolated. Hence, youngsters should lean towards theatre, which creates awareness on lifestyle, experience, mental balance, diversified ways of life and its extension,” advised Dr. Jahida.

Joint Director of Kannada and Culture Department V.N. Mallikarjunaswamy, former Mysuru District Kannada Sahitya Parishat President M. Chandrashekar, Theatre Music Director Chandrashekarachar and Founder-Secretary of Suthra Foundation G. Jagadish Kumar were present on the occasion.

The 25-day free theatre training camp is being held at the rehearsal room in Kalamandira premises from Nov. 10 to Dec. 5 between 6 pm and 8.30 pm.