Rangayana stalemate continues

Even as the protests of Rangayana artistes reached the eighth day on Friday, the authorities concerned have made no efforts at resolving the issue.

Kannada and Culture Commissioner K R Ramakrishna and in-charge Director, Rangayana said that the protesting artistes would surely “fall in line”. The officer who has been making brief visits to Mysore ever since his appointment, said that the artistes had no other go but to report to work eventually. “They have already gone to Shimoga and Dharwad and reported to duty. However citing that they wanted to participate in the World Theatre Day celebrations, they sought for leave and came back to Mysore. I am sure they will go back to their designated locations -- they have to, as they have no other choice. They can’t afford to absent themselves for so many days.”

He also said that there was “no point” in holding discussions with the artistes, as they were being “instigated” by “some players involved” with the affairs of the repertory. “I have brought the matter to the notice of the government,” he added.

Snake Shyam, corporator, who participated in the protest on Friday, said that Rangayana had been his stepping stone to success.  Artistes Prashanth Hiremath and Gangadhar participated in the relay hunger strike, which stepped into day three. The cause was supported by theatre personality Na Rathna and others.