Mysore/Mysuru: ‘Sahaja Ranga 2025,’ a month-long theatre training camp organised by Niranthara Foundation, Mysuru, at Gandhi Bhavan in Manasagangothri here, was formally inaugurated on Aug. 17. The programme began with the reading of the Preamble to the Constitution.

Participating as the chief guest, senior theatre personality Dr. C. Basavalingaiah remarked, “The Constitution of India has declared education as a fundamental right of every citizen. Education is the foundation for personality development, social awareness, and national progress.” He also referred to Article 21A, Articles 29 and 30, and the Directive Principles, highlighting that education is an instrument to strengthen equality, justice, and social harmony.

“Theatre must serve as a mirror of the present and should cultivate a spirit of questioning in society,” he added.

Releasing the orientation magazine brought out by Niranthara’s associates, Dr. S. Narendra Kumar, Director of Gandhi Bhavan, said, “For the past 35 years, Niranthara Foundation has been deeply committed to theatre, while also addressing social issues such as nature, environment, rainwater conservation, and organic farming through its theatre-based initiatives.”

“The values and ideals of the Constitution must reach the common people. May the message of unity in diversity, as envisioned in the Constitution, be passed on to the coming generations,” he said.

Another chief guest, Dr. M.D. Sudarshan, Assistant Director of the Department of Kannada and Culture, noted, “For the past 20 years, Niranthara has been conducting free theatre training camps, playing a significant role in community building.”

Prasad Kundooru of Niranthara delivered the introductory address, narrating the history and objectives of the camp.

On the same occasion, Niranthara’s Ashwini, Yashaswini, Pratap Hunasuru and Vivekananda sang the ‘Ashaya Geethe’ (theme song of ideals).

Retired Professors Appaji Gowda & Mangala, SBI Lead Bank Manager Shivalingaiah, Niranthara’s Prasad Kundooru, M.M. Suguna, Srinivas Palahalli, Hariprasad Besayi, Shira Somashekhar, Rajesh Hebbar and others were present.

This year’s camp has drawn a total of 35 students. The training camp, which began on Aug. 15, will conclude on Sept. 18 with a theatre performance.