Nestled in a tranquil lane opposite a leafy park in Sainikpuri, Hyderabad, a house transformed into a vivacious array of colors beckons art enthusiasts and curious onlookers alike. This abode is none other than Rangbhoomi by Sneha Arts, the latest cultural venue to grace the city’s arts scene, showcasing an eclectic mix of music and dance performances, theatre shows, and inviting open mic sessions. The creative center, spearheaded by artist Sneha Lata Prasad and thespian Jay Jha, has recently unfurled its curtains, signifying the expansion of Hyderabad’s cultural landscape into emerging localities.
Upon arrival, visitors are welcomed by a cheerful exterior with a quaint courtyard and a small canteen for refreshments. Dominating the house’s skyline is a striking metal-and-scrap sculpture depicting a knight astride his steed. Here, one can meander leisurely or repose on concrete benches serenaded by the ambient melodies of local birdlife. Boasting a modest stage measuring 14×25 feet, along with seating capacity for approximately 70 guests, Rangbhoomi offers a uniquely intimate experience for its audience.
A recent visit to the center revealed an ongoing theatre workshop, where enthusiasm and creativity were ripe in the air. Jay Jha, a noted figure in the local theatre circuit and co-founder of both Rangbhoomi Spaces in Gachibowli and the KissaGo Theatre Group, recounted that the motivation to establish this space burgeoned from a mutual passion for the performing arts shared with Prasad. Initially intended as a studio for Prasad’s sculpting endeavors, the duo embraced the opportunity to repurpose the space amidst the closure of their former venue in Gachibowli due to lease issues. Jha’s familiarity with the Sainikpuri area, a nod to his college days, has cemented his commitment to reinventing this space as a haven for artists and audiences.
Since its inauguration on Valentine’s Day, which featured the play “Banerjee Babu,” the venue has nurtured the artistic spirit with events such as an open mic hosted by Orange Carrot Productions. Jha concedes that gathering crowds remains a challenge, with theatre-going being a relatively novel concept in the suburb. Undeterred, the team at Rangbhoomi intends to set the stage alight with plays crafted by KissaGo and amplify the theater’s profile among local aficionados.
Interest in the space has not been solely confined to theatre. Enquiries for showcasing music and dance shows have surfaced, including from educational institutions keen on arranging student performances. It is here that Rangbhoomi’s vision of bringing the community closer to the arts begins to materialize, fostering an environment where both artists and spectators can relish the closeness and connection afforded by smaller, more personalized gatherings.
Rangbhoomi by Sneha Arts is steadfast in its quest to embed itself as the cultural nucleus of the neighbourhood. Recollecting the trajectory of their Gachibowli space, which blossomed in recognition three months after opening, the founders of this artistic outpost are optimistic about a gradual ascent to prominence within the local arts tapestry.
In continuation of its mission to delight and engage the community, Rangbhoomi by Sneha Arts is set to play host to the Preksha Trivedi Company and the KissaGo Theatre Group for the staging of “Blind Men’s Club” at Lamakaan and their own premises on March 16 and 17; those eager to partake in this cultural feast can secure their tickets via bookmyshow.com for a modest fee of ₹200.
Joining this verdant vista, Rangbhoomi stands as a testament to the growing appetite for artistic ventures in Hyderabad. In the dances that sway, the lines that actors boldly deliver, and the laughter that cascades from its open mics, this space reaffirms the local community’s role in the ever-evolving panorama of the city’s artistic expression.
