NTR Kala Vedika opens with a verse drama

The inaugural programme of NTR Kala Vedika, a new cultural organisation, was held at Tummalapalli Kshetrayya Kalakshetram on Sunday. The aim of the cultural organisation, named after actor and former chief minister of undivided Andhra Pradesh NT Rama Rao, is to promote theatre art and traditional art forms.

‘Srinatha Kavi Sarvabhouma’, a verse drama, was staged to mark the inauguration, which was applauded by the audience. It was written by Akella. Gummadi Gopala Krishna, who directed the drama, played the main role of Srinatha to perfection. The other important roles in the drama were played by Vijayaprakash Reddy, Malladi Venkata Sarma, Malladi Bhaskar, Dasari Sivarama Rao and Meka Ramakrishna.

Speaking on the occasion, Assembly speaker Kodela Siva Prasada Rao underlined the need to promote theatre, which he said was an effective medium to create social awareness among the people.

Presiding over the inaugural programme, deputy speaker of Assembly Mandali Buddha Prasad said, “Krishna district is famous for art and culture. There is a need to patronise stage art and traditional art forms to uphold our rich culture and heritage.''

City Police Commissioner AB Venkateswara Rao, who was instrumental in setting up the Kala Vedika, said that the organisation would encourage artistes and budding talent. Local MP Kesineni Srinivas said, “A donor is ready to construct a well-equipped auditorium in the city for organising cultural programmes should the Vijayawada Municipal Corporation allot a site for it.”

Krishna Zilla Parishad chairperson Gadde Anuradha, mayor Koneru Sridhar, deputy mayor Gogula Ramana, MLAs Gadde Ramamohan, Jaleel Khan, Bonda Umamaheswara Rao, lyricist Jonnavithula Ramalingeswara Rao and others graced the event.

By: HVRS Prasad