In a riveting theatrical presentation, the amateur theatre group Samasthi from Bengaluru is all set to stage “Chitrapata,” a unique rendition of the ancient Indian epic, Ramayana. Originally penned in Kannada by HS Venkatesha Murthy, “Chitrapata Ramayana” shifts away from the classical narrative traditionally known and delves into the epic from a folk perspective. This intriguing adaptation is being directed by Manjunath L Badiger, a graduate of the esteemed Ninasam Theatre Institute.
According to Badiger, “Chitrapata is not the story of Valmiki’s Ramayana.” It draws inspirations from the literary works of Helavanakatte Giriyamma, blending storied traditions with expressive folk art forms. “The author has adopted a style where the story is narrated using Pattachitra, a traditional painting technique from Odisha. Pictures, folk songs, and dances emerge as integral components of the play,” Badiger explains.
Significantly, “Chitrapata” draws its essence from the cultural legacy of the devotees of the goddess Yellamma, known as Bhootaes. Badiger, whose initiation into theatre began through a street play workshop in Bengaluru during his college days two decades ago, shares, “The troupe was called Madhyam and was spearheaded by Jayatheertha, a respected Kannada film director. My theatre journey began there.”
Currently residing in Mangaluru near Kukke Subramanya, Badiger travels frequently for his theatre endeavors. “Samasthi and I will complete 25 years in 2025,” he notes with pride. The theatre group, Samasthi, was founded in 2000 by Manjunath L Badiger, Jayateertha, and Ravindra Poojari, a dedicated chartered accountant who shares a passion for theatre. “Jayateertha is always there to guide and mentor us, which plays a crucial role in our growth,” says Badiger.
While acknowledging the limited financial incentives in theatre, Badiger remains unwavering in his commitment. “I prefer to live within limited means and work without high expectations. My dream is to devote my life entirely to theatre and to inspire others with a similar passion to join me,” he comments, reflecting on his dual roles as a guest lecturer at various universities in Karnataka and collaborations with other amateur theatre groups.
One unique aspect of “Chitrapata” is its portrayal of Rama and Sita not as divine figures but as ordinary individuals steeped in everyday life. “The folk perspective allows a nuanced dimension to the Ramayana. For instance, it explores the idea that suspicion is not exclusive to mortals but applies to Rama and Sita as well,” Badiger elucidates.
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The play centers around an imaginative scenario following the coronation of Rama in Ayodhya. Chandranakhi mischievously plots to bring Ravana back into Sita’s quarters, sparking numerous questions. “The goal of the story is to dispel darkness and reveal light. It depicts daily atrocities faced by women and provokes the audience to rethink the perspectives from which men and women view each other,” he remarks.
In terms of training, Badiger is well-versed in traditional Indian performing arts. He has been part of Ninasam’s itinerant theatre company, Tirugata, and is a trained Yakshagana dancer from the Udupi Yakshagana Kendra. Additionally, he holds a Janapada Diploma from Ramanagara Janapada Loka. He urges the audience to approach the play with an open mind. “I understand that discussions about our epics and deities are sensitive. However, this is a folk perspective, which thrives in our villages. I hope people appreciate the essence of what is being staged,” he appeals.
Manjunath proudly shares that the original request to produce “Chitrapata” came from Malladihalli’s Anatha Sevashrama School, which has close ties to the author, HS Venkatesha Murthy. “The school approached us to direct this play, which was initially meant for their students and faculty. We then decided to stage it through Samasthi,” he recounts.
For those interested in experiencing this unique reimagining of one of India’s greatest epics, “Chitrapata” will be staged on July 6 at Rangashankara. There will be two shows—one at 3.30 PM and another at 7.30 PM. Tickets are available at the venue and can also be booked through BookMyShow. Don’t miss this chance to witness a profound folk perspective on the Ramayana.
