JOIN USActor Prakash Raj, on Sunday, called upon the youth to plunge into theatre to launch a new movement.
Delivering the valedictory address at B V Karanth College Yuva Rangotsava, at Bhoomigeetha, in the city, Prakash Raj took cognisance of the often made comment on the youth drifting away from theatre.
Citing his own example, Prakash Raj went nostalgic, recalling his tryst with theatre as a student. His love for the stage was such that, he joined a college only to be a part of its extra-curricular activities through Kannada Sangha.
Prakash Raj said, as theatre became an integral part of his life, it taught the nuances of life. He cited an example of a play, when he was acting under the tutelage of G K Govinda Rao, also his first director in theatre. A mere applause was suffice for him (Prakash Raj) to pride himself as a great actor. His ego took him to an extent, where he missed rehearsal to watch a movie.
As a result, he had to let go the chance of acting on the D-day. Govinda Rao, who had a word with him later, gave a dose of advise, which eventually had an impact on him later. “You are a good actor and has a bright future. But shed the ego”, was Rao’s advise.
Inspiration
Inspiring youngsters in the hall, Prakash Raj also mentioned about his 12-year-old daughter, who is actively involved in theatre.
He said, theatre not only shapes an actor, but teaches to play the perfect role of a husband, wife and son in real life.
Reminiscing about the doyen of theatre B V Karanth, who is fondly addressed as ‘Meshtru’, Prakash Raj said: “Meshtru still remains a source of inspiration”. He also offered to do his mite to keep Rangayana repertory alive.
Director of Rangayana H Janardhan (Janni) went on a nostalgic tour, recalling the nascent days in theatre with Prakash Raj.
The week-long theatre festival came to an end with the staging of the play ‘Yaare Koogadali’ by the students of SBRR Mahajana First Grade College.
Theatre director Gowri Dattu from Abhinaya Taranga, Bangalore, convenor of the rangotsava Saroja Hegde and Deputy Director of Rangayana S I Bhavikatte were present.