Theatre for a social cause

Teachers Art Association in Koppal district has taken amateur theatre to the next level by using it as a tool for achieving greater common good

The Teachers Art Association founded and promoted by the teachers of Koppal district has taken amateur theatre in the region to new heights. Along with performing social and historical plays in the rural areas, the association, formed in 2010, has been supporting talented underprivileged students to continue their education.  

The association is the brainchild of teachers Ramanna Shyavi and Pranesha Poojar. They started off by staging plays with mythological themes. The first play named Raktaratri became popular among villagers and the collection crossed the expectation of the team. As decided, they presented the money collected to Pandit Puttaraj Gawai of Veereshwara Punyashrama in Gadag.

Since then, the team of teachers has linked theatre and social cause for the greater common good. Some of the pro-people and pro-environment activities undertaken by the team include distributing saplings to schools, financial assistance to the needy, creating awareness and interest in youngsters about theatre and engaging them in theatre activities, identifying physically challenged people and providing them necessary assistance etc. In an attempt to support eco-friendly activities, the association acknowledges schools that lay stress on environment-related programmes like afforestation and honours them with ‘taluk level green school’ award.

They have not just supported students but also veteran people who are in need of assistance. This year, they performed  historical play Veera Sindhura Lakshmana on Teachers’ Day and donated the money collected to physically challenged people. Though the team members contribute money from their pocket for the activities, many others including teachers, theatre enthusiasts and government departments have also extended financial assistance. Every month, each team member contributes Rs 200 towards the team fund.

Inspirational work

While many have appreciated the work of Teachers Art Association, some have got the motivation to start similar activities. For instance, high school teachers of neighbouring Lingasagur taluk have formed a similar network and work with students and youngsters. Both the associations have shown how passion could be used as a tool for the welfare of the society.

“It was very difficult for me to earn a living and meet the needs of my three physically-challenged kids. The entire day was spent looking after them. When the Teachers Art Association came to know about our plight, the members generously extended financial support. This has given me hope and confidence,” says Rasheeda Begum, a resident of Koppal town. Similarly, well-known environment crusader Salumarada Timmakka got financial support from the team. She says, “I am glad too see the environment-related activities of the association. Their work reflects their conviction and dedication towards society, which is rare to see these days. Personally, they have helped me when my health condition deteriorated.”

Raktaratri, Gandugali Kumararama, Sangolli Rayanna, Simhasana Khali Ide, Veera Sindhura Lakshmana are some of the popular productions of this team. Of them, Sangolli Rayanna has been staged 16 times. Apart from Koppal taluk, the team has also performed in Gangavathi, Hagaribommanahalli and other rural areas. Though theatre is a passion for the team, their intense involvement has made them one of the best amateur troupes in the State. As a result, they have won prizes in state and national level drama competitions.

The association has given a modern touch to theatre by adopting advanced technology. Some of the team members have acted in movies too. Recently, they have launched an orchestra called Ganayogi Melodies and use the money collected for social purposes.

“We teachers should engage in creative and responsible activities. Such activities not only keep us active but also set a model for students, the future citizens,” says Ramanna Shyavi. Shivanagowda, Dayananda Sagara, Manjunatha Pujar, Suresh Kambli, Devaraj Meti, Ramesh, Mahanthesh and Gavisiddappa are some other active members of the association.

“At a time when teaching is considered to be a dull profession, such activities will make schools a happening place. The activities of this association not only enthused students, but also villagers,” says actor Mandya Ramesh and association’s resource person Veeresh G Meti. Not to mention, the association’s efforts to revive rural theatre and support the underprivileged have influenced many in the district. To know more about their work or contribute, one can contact the association on 9739206201 or 9538801707.