Niranthara Foundation’s Kannada play ‘Party’ from April 3 to 5

Niranthara Foundation, Mysuru, a theatre group known in the State’s theatre circle, is presenting the play “Party”, written by renowned Marathi playwright Mahesh Elkunchwar (whose Kannada translation has been done by Prasad Kundur) in Mysuru on April 3, 4, and 5.

The play will be staged at the Mini Theatre (Kiru Rangamandira) on Kalamandira premises. The show will begin on the three days at 7 p.m.

Mahesh Elkunchwar, a prominent voice in modern Indian theatre, works deeply to explore the inner conflicts of human relationships, existential questions, and the moral complexities of the intellectual class.

The play “Party” unfolds within the setting of a social gathering, revealing through conversations among writers, artists, and intellectuals their egos, rivalries, failures, and inner struggles. What appears to be casual dialogue gradually exposes deeper layers of emptiness, the collapse of facades, and the growing distance between individuals and society, according to a press release from Niranthara.

Theatre personality Prasad Kundur, who has vast experience in Kannada theatre, has translated the play in Kannada and contributed as an actor, director, playwright, singer, and stage designer. “His adaptation preserves the essence of the original while conforming it meaningfully within the Kannada cultural context, adding further depth to the play,” it stated.

On Tuesday, the foundation released posters of the play at a press conference here in which former Rangayana director Chidambara Rao Jambe, who is directing the play, was present, along with Mr. Kundur, wildlife photographer Lokesh Mosale, Suguna M.M., and Srinivas Palahalli of the foundation.

“Through this production, the foundation seeks to bring contemporary intellectual and cultural debates to the stage. The play goes beyond entertainment, raising ethical and social questions that provoke serious reflection among audiences,” the theatre group said.

Mr. Jambe, who has directed numerous acclaimed productions across India in Kannada, Hindi, and other languages, brings together dialogue, psychological depth of characters, and stage design to create a sensitive and compelling theatrical experience in the play “Party”, the release added.

The play examines the relationship between literature, art, the role of artists, creativity, and social responsibility in contemporary society. By exposing the gap between the values of the intellectual class and their personal lives, the play invites the audience toward introspection. “It stands as an effort to deepen the connection between theatre, literature, and contemporary thought. By addressing themes relevant to audiences across generations, it has the potential to foster meaningful dialogue in Kannada theatre,” according to the foundation.

The entry fee for the play is ₹100.