Tulu theatre icons feted at 'Chavadi Koota'

Mangalore, March 27:  The Karnataka Tulu Sahitya academy celebrated 'World theatre day' and organized 'Chavadi Koota' at their office in Mangalore City Corporation. On this occasion two theatre personalities R K Mangalore and Vijay Kumar Kodialbail were felicitated for their contribution to the Tulu dramas. Other dignitaries present were Manu Idya, K V Shetty Kadri, Rohini Jagaram and Kishore D Shetty.

The welcome speech was made by Chandrahas Rai B, Registrar of Karnataka Tulu Sahitya Academy. President of Tulu Sahitya Academy, Umanath Kotian gave his inaugural address saying, "I expected a lot of co-operation from the Tulu Drama artists and they are giving it, so with this I can go forward with my work as president. Today is world theatre day and it is apt for us to felicitate our theatre personalities. Artists portray in theatre the realities of society. Legend has it that in Greece a person by name Escalos was a spectator of a whipping act, on a criminal and this inspired him to write theatre scripts. Many artists come into the theatre world with many expectations and find themselves in a dilemma. In Tulu drama one man show is becoming quite popular. Theatre has changed in many years and has many shades now. Many directors are mushrooming and slowly Tulu drama is entering foreign countries as well. The movie 'Oriyardori Asal' ran for 25 weeks in the theatres and this is still a record. It is a proud moment for all of us. We have to analyse as to in which direction the Tulu Sahitya Academy is going and need guidance for its progress”, he said.

Famous theatre personalities R K Mangalore and Vijay Kumar Kodialbail were felicitated for their contribution to the Tulu theatre and immense talent which they possess. A publication by name 'Madipu' was also released on this occasion.
Accepting the citation and honour bestowed on him R K Mangalore expressed his joy by saying, “Drama is like a mirror of the society, and development of drama is very slow although things are changing slowly. Comedy dramas are becoming popular. Some people remember the dramas they watch and talk about it, but nowadays they just watch it and then forget about it after having a hearty laugh. Tulu script needs to be given more importance”, he said.

Vijay Kumar Kodialbail also spoke to the gathering and said, “Tulu Cinema is growing. In the next few months two more films will hit the silver screen. Tulu drama is gaining popularity in foreign countries especially Gulf. President Umanath Kotian is doing well for the Academy. Many years back when I had to take part in a drama, I was very timid but today I can write dramas and entertain people. I am happy about the honour bestowed on me”, he said.