Kalaburagi's Rangayana to Present 'Sannagowdasani' on August 10-11

The Kalaburagi-based repertory of Rangayana is set to stage the play Sannagowdasani, an adaptation of Nadoja Shantarasa’s acclaimed novel, on August 10 and 11 at Dr. S.M. Pandit Rangamandir in Kalaburagi. The performances, scheduled for 6 p.m. on both days, are being jointly organised by the Department of Kannada and Culture and Rangayana, Kalaburagi. The announcement was made by Rangayana director Sujatha Jangamshetty during a press conference on Saturday.

Play to Explore Rural Life and Human Complexity

Adapted for the stage by playwright Mahantesh Navalkal and directed by Praveen Reddy Gunjannahalli, Sannagowdasani delves into the social, political, economic, and religious dimensions of village life in the Hyderabad-Karnataka region. The story, centered on Mehboob Jan, portrays the intense rivalries among village heads, their obsession with winning a woman’s favor, and the resulting cruelty and petty politics that disrupt the lives of innocent villagers. “The novel offers an authentic portrayal of human virtues and weaknesses, capturing the complete way of life in rural Karnataka,” said Ms. Jangamshetty.

Cultural and Artistic Contributions

The production incorporates Shantarasa’s ghazals as a tribute to the writer, with music composed by Raghav Kammar of Dharwad. Kammar and his team have also rendered the stage songs. The stage design and props are handled by Rajkumar S.K., while Srinivas Doranahalli manages lighting and serves as co-director.

Inauguration and Special Guests

Karnataka Information Commission Chairman B. Venkata Singh will inaugurate the performances. Other dignitaries, including Joint Director of the Department of Kannada and Culture Basavaraj Hugar, Rangayana Administrative Officer Sidram Sindhe, Bagalkot Rangasamaja member Mahantesh M. Gajendragad, and journalist Sheshmurthy Avadhani, will attend as chief guests.

Preserving Regional Theatre

Rangayana, Kalaburagi, was established to promote theatre in the Hyderabad-Karnataka region and foster a cultural movement rooted in local traditions. “Theatre is a distinct and living medium, and it is heartening to see it flourish in Kalaburagi,” said Mr. Sindhe.

The poster for the play was unveiled by veteran playwright Shankarayya Ghanti, followed by a special performance for journalists.

This staging of Sannagowdasani promises to be a significant cultural event, offering audiences a poignant exploration of rural life and human nature through the lens of Shantarasa’s literary masterpiece.

Source: The Hindu