Mysore/Mysuru: Mysuru Jilla Havyasi Rangakarmigala Vedike, an association of amateur theatre enthusiasts, has accused the Karnataka Nataka Academy of sidelining Mysuru’s artistes in the selection of its annual awards.

Addressing reporters at Patrakarthara Bhavan, former Rangayana Director C. Basavalingaiah alleged that of the 93 awards conferred by the Academy this year, nearly 50 have gone to Bengaluru-based artistes.

“Artistes residing in Mysuru are being ignored, while those originally from Mysuru but settled in Bengaluru are receiving awards under the so-called ‘Mysuru quota’,” he said.

He criticised the Academy for prioritising Bengaluru artistes at the expense of talent from other districts and failing to adequately recognise women artistes. “The Academy Chairman appears to be acting unilaterally, discriminating in the selection process and overlooking those who have dedicated their lives to theatre,” Basavalingaiah alleged.

He urged the Academy to adopt a fair and inclusive approach by ensuring awardees are chosen from across districts without gender bias, beginning next year.

Theatre artistes Mime Ramesh and Rajashekar Kadamba supported Basavalingaiah’s stance. Others present included Rajesh H. Talkad, Kathyayini, Bhuvaneshwari, Abdul Kareem, Mohan and Ramanna.