Nirdigantha, a theatre incubation center situated in K Shettihalli, Srirangapatana, was founded by renowned actor and filmmaker Prakash Raj and has recently marked its one-year anniversary. This institution, created with the vision of empowering artists and generating new opportunities within the theatrical world, has witnessed notable growth and success over its first year of operations.
In an exclusive interview with The Hindu, Prakash Raj elaborated on Nirdigantha’s journey, its impactful presence within the theatre community, his aspirations for the future, and the reasons behind his decision to temporarily step back from the stage.
“We are living our dream,” Raj shared, his enthusiasm palpable. “The journey has just begun, and there is positivity all around. The way Nirdigantha has evolved over the past year is heartening. You see people from different walks of life and thought processes through the youngsters who work here. Much like the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary nearby, this has become a Rangada (theatre)thittu. The conversations that have happened here in the last one year have personally enriched me.”
At present, Nirdigantha is home to approximately 30 to 40 artists engaged in various projects. This platform not only serves as a place for these artists to unlearn conventional methods but also provides a space for them to fail and derive meaningful lessons from those failures. Following recent festivals in Chikkamagaluru and Mangaluru, there has been an observable spike in the audience attendance at local theatrical performances. People from diverse corners of the state are beginning to recognize the vast possibilities within the realm of theatre. Raj emphasized, “If we, as Nirdigantha, can inspire the creation of different Nirdiganthas in various spaces with a little push, people will be able to listen to the new voices of this generation.”
In line with celebrating Nirdigantha’s first anniversary, Raj curated a series of events designed to showcase the center’s achievements and ongoing projects. The purpose of Shalaranga, one of Nirdigantha’s key initiatives, isn’t solely to introduce theatre but to utilize it as an educational tool. Raj cited a UNESCO report emphasizing that basic education encompasses more than just mathematics and science; it also includes social justice, perception, literature, and other critical subjects. Theatre, Raj argues, can expose children to these areas effectively.
“This is an extensive project, and we are structuring a curriculum that we will present to experts who have worked with children to understand what is needed,” Raj explained. “Theatre gives a child perception and a means to express their creativity.
. Whether it is theatre, singing, or dancing, any form of art is important in a child’s growing years.”
Over the past year, Nirdigantha has produced six new theatrical works, including “A Friend Beyond the Fence,” “Tappida Yele,” “Bob Marley from Kodihalli,” and “Mattaya 22:39.” These productions, initially performed in Mysuru and Chikkamagaluru, will soon embark on a tour across the state. One of the latest and most intriguing productions is “Manteswamy Kavya Prayoga.” Traditionally, men sing the folk songs or Manteswamy Kavya, but this play features a young female singer and actor presenting the kavyas. Additionally, several one-man plays and documentary shows are currently in development.
Reflecting on the creative process, Raj mused, “I honestly don’t know because you can never touch the horizon. It is like chiseling a rock that takes on a different shape each time, and once it becomes a circle, you must go behind it. I believe Nirdigantha will go beyond us.”
When asked about the apparent contrast between his roles as an actor, filmmaker, and theatre incubator, Raj remarked, “I wouldn’t necessarily say my roles contrast. I farm here in Nirdigantha. The villagers around us are inspired not to grow sugarcane anymore. Children, women, and the elderly from the surrounding areas come to watch plays here. An old woman who has no family has found shelter here. A different sort of social bonding is unfolding. I would have become irrelevant if I was just a theatre actor; my relevance today stems from expanding the horizons of the next generation.”
Prakash Raj also revealed that he has decided to stay off the stage for another two years to provide other talented individuals the opportunity to shine. “When I get back on stage, it will not be just for performing roles — something else is churning within me, beyond just my acting abilities,” he concluded with a hint of mystery.
Nirdigantha’s first year has undeniably set a promising foundation, and the future holds exciting prospects as it continues to nurture and spotlight new voices in theatre.
