During a significant cultural event in Patna, acclaimed actor and National Award recipient Saurabh Shukla expressed his profound connection with Bihar, likening it to a second home. His visit, which marked a debut to Patna, was punctuated with warm sentiments towards the state’s residents and its fertile artistic landscape. Shukla made known his intentions to frequent Bihar and showcase his theatrical productions to the local audience.
The purpose of Shukla’s visit was to inaugurate the House of Variety, an emergent platform poised to bridge various forms of artistic expression including theatre, cinema, and literature. This establishment is envisioned as a cradle for nurturing emerging talent and a springboard for art and culture aficionados to launch their careers.
In his interaction, Shukla recollected his experiences from the workshop hosted at the House of Variety. “I am privileged to meet the people of Bihar. The opening of the House of Variety ensures that Bihar’s audience will witness an increase in theatrical shows. And now, as I traverse the State, I feel I have a second home in Patna,” he conveyed.
Mr. Shukla, who is also esteemed as a screenwriter and director, emphasized the unity of artists across mediums. Asserting that artists should not be segregated by artificial boundaries, he underscored Bihar’s profound historical contribution to the arts. He applauded Bihari artists for their cinematic success stories, citing luminaries such as Pankaj Tripathi and Manoj Bajpayee.
A stalwart of creative freedom, Mr. Shukla articulated his advocacy for theatrical independence. He drew parallels between thriving cinematic and theatrical spaces worldwide and those often stifled under government oversight. “An uncensored and self-sustained theatre environment breeds richer ideas and reinforces the rights of creators,” Shukla argued, emphasizing the potential limitations imposed by state policies on expressive liberties.
The genesis of the House of Variety carries the legacy of dramatic arts as Suman Sinha, its founder, is the progeny of Shivendra Sinha, a notable alumnus of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London. With the expertise of theatre veteran Robin Das, who has earlier served at the National School of Drama, and the collaboration of individuals like Prakash Punj and noted actor Vineet Kumar, the establishment of the site was realized. Kumar, known for his roles in Hindi cinema and web series, brings a wealth of experience to the initiative.
Suman Sinha took the opportunity to highlight the advanced technical capabilities of the facility, boasting state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems. These provisions promise to elevate the experience for theatrical performers and their audiences alike. Moreover, Sinha pointed out the inclusive nature of the space which welcomes performers from different linguistic backgrounds. For example, artists from southern states like Kerala and Tamil Nadu can showcase their talent in Patna, catering to a diverse audience.
In closing, the debut of the House of Variety in Patna marked a promising avenue for artists to practice and proliferate their craft. Saurabh Shukla’s visit and his impassioned plea for artistic independence have further invigorated the local community, which ardently seeks to immerse itself in the cultural and theatrical renaissance that the House of Variety stands to offer.
