As anticipation mounts for the 20th anniversary celebrations of Ranga Shankara, one of Bengaluru’s most esteemed theatre spaces, its founder, Arundhati Nag, finds herself oscillating between past reflections and visions for the future. Nag, an iconic figure in theatre and film, has been at the heart of this vibrant institution since its inception, and as the milestone approaches, she shares her relentless ambition for nurturing and expanding this cultural cornerstone.
Ranga Shankara, like a beacon of cultural heritage, has stood proudly in Bengaluru for two decades, offering a stage to numerous theatrical performances and cultivating a rich artistic community. Nag’s journey has been a testament to the undying spirit of theatre and its importance in modern society. Reflecting on the realization of her dream, Nag remarked, “Not many people have the privilege of dreaming and seeing it come true. I would say I am in the middle of it now. The dream is not over; there is so much more a space like Ranga Shankara can do.” Even as theatre evolves, she envisions adding new dimensions to this beloved space.
Yet, the journey has not been without its challenges. “The financial concern never really left the table,” Nag notes, underscoring the delicate balance of maintaining an artistic institution. Operating with just nine dedicated staff members who multitask extensively, Nag emphasizes that their salaries, while not great, are comparably decent against other theatre establishments. This lean operation reflects a broader ethos of dedication and resourcefulness.
Acknowledging the essential roles of government and corporate patrons in arts funding, Nag praises the support Ranga Shankara receives through civic amenities and private benefactors. “It is not fair to expect the government to do everything,” she asserts, appreciating the initiatives available for artists. The generosity of Bengaluru’s corporate sector, with figures like Sudha Murty, Rohini Nilekani, and Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, has been instrumental in sustaining Ranga Shankara. In an era where corporate social responsibility is paramount, Nag likens these patrons to modern-day kings, suggesting they bear a mandate to support the arts alongside other social causes.
For two decades, Ranga Shankara has retained a consistent rental fee, a testament to its mission to democratize theatre access. Nag recounts how their auditor initially expressed skepticism about setting a nominal rent of ₹2,500 per show. Today, as they contemplate a slight increase, the same auditor advises against it to preserve the institution’s purpose-driven roots.
. The secret, as Nag discloses, lies in continually seeking financial contributions to expand their offerings, rather than burdening theatre-makers with higher rents.
Looking back, Nag reminisces about the arduous journey of bringing Ranga Shankara to life, which involved convincing policymakers of the need for theatrical venues. “When I presented the plan to the then chief minister S.M. Krishna, I told him Bengaluru needs four such theatres,” she recalls. While financial limitations allowed for only one, her blueprint included spaces dedicated to dance, music, and artistic fusion — aspirations that still await realization.
The vibrant Ranga Shankara Theatre Festival, highlighting plays like ‘Raghunath’ and ‘Chakravyuha’, exemplifies the cultural richness that the theatre perpetuates. These performances resonate with the diversity and depth that Ranga Shankara has championed over the years.
Reflecting on personal sacrifices, Nag shares a critical decision she made at the onset of Ranga Shankara’s creation. Despite lucrative film offers for seminal Hindi films like ‘Lagaan’ and ‘Dil Chahta Hai’, she chose to focus on establishing the theatre, recognizing an opportunity that was far rarer. “I told Aamir Khan that I would get the chance to play the role of a mother in many films, but I would not get the opportunity to do this again,” she recalls, reaffirming her unwavering dedication to the arts.
As Ranga Shankara looks to the future, Nag believes that as long as human relationships exist, theatre will endure. “As long as people tell lies, there will be theatre!” she quips. Ranga Shankara’s vitality, she asserts, depends on the integrity and passion of those who inhabit its space, ensuring its continuity as a sanctuary for creativity and expression.
For more details about Ranga Shankara and upcoming events, reach out to [email protected]. Published on October 04, 2024, this article appears as part of The Hindu Sunday Magazine’s in-depth look at theatrical arts and culture.
