Patel calls for small cultural complexes for theatre groups

Nagpur: The 100th divisional Marathi Natya Sammelan was inaugurated with grandeur at the Suresh Bhat Auditorium on Friday. The ceremony witnessed the presence of an impressive galaxy of artistes, cultural enthusiasts, and dignitaries.
Presiding over the event, renowned filmmaker and theatre personality Dr Jabbar Patel emphasised the need to create small cultural complexes to support theatre groups. "In the last 10 to 15 years, the digital age has brought about major technological changes that have significantly impacted performing arts like drama and dance," Dr Patel observed.
"Theatre groups today are struggling financially. To preserve and nurture this magical art form, we must provide them with rehearsal spaces and dedicated venues for performances," he said.
Sharing the dais with Patel were acclaimed actor Shahbaz Khan, MLC Abhijit Wanjari, Padma Shri Dr Parshuram Khune, and actors Shalaka Pawar, Sagar Karande, and Bharat Ganeshpure, along with office-bearers of the Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Natya Parishad, including vice presidents Naresh Gadekar and Bhausahab Bhoir, Executive Officer Ajit Bhure, and others.
Wanjari, speaking at the event, stressed the need for fair remuneration for folk artists and writers, comparing them to our beloved sisters whose well-being should be ensured.
Although unable to attend the event due to the tragic incident at Pahalgam, chief minister Devendra Fadnavis conveyed his best wishes through a letter. In his message, read out by Ajay Patil, the chief minister described the centenary Sammelan as a significant milestone that would surely inspire future generations.
Actor Shahbaz Khan, known for his roles in popular television serials like Chandrakanta, Tipu Sultan, and Vetal Pachisi, was the star attraction at the event. He rendered the Shiv Tandav Stotra and fondly recalled his childhood and education in Nagpur. "I dreamt all my dreams here. I first acted in a Marathi play titled ‘To Mee Navhech' in Nagpur. The city runs through my veins," said an emotional Khan.
Traditional arts light up Natya Dindi
A vibrant Natya Dindi (theatre parade) marked the formal beginning of the sammelan. Amidst the beats of traditional dhol, tasha, lezim, pink turbans, and colourful rangoli carpets, artistes marched with great enthusiasm. Folk performers representing Vasudev, Potraj, Pingla, Dashavatar, and Gondhal traditions added a rich cultural flavour.
The artistic highlight of the sammelan was the inauguration of a special exhibition named after renowned set designer and painter, the late Ganesh Naidu. Titled ‘A Hundred Years of Marathi Theatre Heritage', the exhibition featured about 31 paintings by students, amateur and professional artists. The centrepiece of the gallery was a charcoal portrait drawn by Ganesh Naidu at the age of 19.