Fete to honour Uncle Shyam

Kannada theatre troupe, Antharanga, is organising a four-day theatre festival ‘Uncle Shyam 75’ from November 22 to November 25 at H N Kalakshetra, Jayanagar.

The festival is in honour of 40 years of M S Shyamsunder, popularly known as Uncle Shyam, who is turning 75. He founded ‘Antharanga’. Since its initiation 37 years ago, the group is identifying itself with several facets of the socio-cultural arena.

Hailing from a traditional family, uncle Shyam was always interested in theatre. In an interview with Metrolife, Uncle Shyam gets nostalgic and talks about his struggling days.

“My family is my strength. My wife is the pillar of support, and I would not be successful if it was not for her. She took care of the kids during my struggling days. My kids are no less. I am here only because of their constant support,” he added.

He advises that the struggling makes one stronger. “Kids these days are always in a hurry. They give up very soon. I would not have completed 40 years organising plays if I had given up,” he adds.

Commenting on the changing times, he says, “Theatre then was centred on acting. Now, it is all about technicalities. Though we have a handful number of original plays in recent times, it is nothing compared to the 70s.”

He further adds, “Olden day plays are all about life. It talks about social and moral values, and if watched, they can have a large impact on young minds.”

He reveals that he got the nickname ‘Uncle Shyam’ as the kids at ‘Antaranga’ addressed him that way.

Shyam has explored more horizons than just theatre. In his book, ‘Sanchari Sadagara’, he talks about the current political system. “The book documents my experiences. I have voiced out the hurdles faced by common man in the society,” he adds.

November 22

Play: Ratnan Prapancha
Composition: Lakshmi Chandrashekar, Sundar
Direction: Joseph
Theatre Group: Creative Theatre

November 23

Play: Mukkam Post Bombilwadi
Direction: Ravindra Poojari
Theatre Group: Samasthi

November 24

Play: Galibili
Direction: Sundarashree
Theatre Group: Vasp

November 25

Presentation of various folk activities like Dollukunita, folk songs, bharathanatyam, and a drum jam by various artists.