Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore (SMK)

Mangalore, Mar 17: Renowned dramatist, writer and director Prasanna urged Mangaloreans to retain Don Bosco hall which was founded by dramatists for a great cause to spread the values of religion through the medium of theatre.

He was addressing a gathering of drama lovers in an interaction session on his book “Nataneya Patagalu” on Saturday March 15 at Don Bosco hall here.

He stressed that Don Bosco hall is one of the heritage sites in the field of drama and among the very few drama theatres founded in the pre-independent India existing now.

Elaborating the history of drama he lamented that many drama directors used the medium to show-off  their talent. For the survival of drama in the future, young generation's acceptance is required and it would be only possible by introducing drama as a subject in the curriculum of primary and middle school education. Moreover it would be a source of livelihood for dramatist and drama diploma holders who are diverting their attention to 'silly television soap operas and absurd films.'

Replying for the query raised by a dramatist on the developments in the setting up of National Drama School in the state he said that though the central government considered the proposal, it would be the responsibility of the state government to allocate sufficient funds for the school's establishment. But financial constrains is delaying the project, he added.

He also alleged that the central government is spending 60% of allocated funds on theatre in Delhi alone while it has ignored other regional  theatres.

Prasanna released a book entitled Evalajjiyu Adamajjanu authored by Mohanchandra on the occasion. Dr Damodara Shetty, writer and drama director and Shrinivas, dramatist were present.