By Madhusudhan Akkihebbal
SHARON, MA—Get ready for an evening of Kannada plays for charity on Dec. 2 in Sharon, MA. Over past two decades, Kannadigas of New England have come together and formed a few theatre groups, who have presented entertaining dramas at Mandaara New England Kannada Koota (NEKK) events.
Next month, they are back with a new presentation: Asha Kirana. After all expenses, all proceeds from this entertaining evening of Kannada dramas will go to NEKK’s charity arm Seva Mandaara’s two current beneficiaries in Karnataka: Thaayi Mane in Shimoga and Sri Vijayagiri Education Trust in Mysore.
The state of Karnakata state has a rich history in theatre and performing arts. The state has produced famous theatre personalities such as B.V. Karanth, Girish Karnad and many more who have left their mark on the national stage. Many amateur and professional troupes continue to thrive in Karnataka, and now in United States, and especially in New England.
For more than four decades, NEKK has been the premier hub of Kannadigas of New England. It provides a wonderful platform for Kannadigas of all ages to come together and celebrate their culture, language and identity. In April 2014, one of the amateur theatre groups, RangaTaranga Boston (RT) transformed itself into a cultural non-profit organization. The prime objective of this organization is to nurture the rich heritage of Kannada in theatre art and literature segment. It plays a pivotal role in providing a prestigious platform for Kannada-lovers in and around the region to partake and relish the culture. In December 2016, they partnered with NEKK and presented the first grand Kannada theatre festival – Ranga Sambhrama. Hundreds of theatre lovers enjoyed the three dramas presented at this event and appreciated the new initiative.
NEKK and RT, both registered as IRS 501-c3 non-profit organizations, are back this fall with a new presentation on Saturday, Dec. 2 at Sharon Middle School – “Asha Kirana”. All after-expense proceeds from this entertaining evening of Kannada dramas will go to NEKK’s charity arm Seva Mandaara’s two current beneficiaries in Karnataka – Thaayi Mane in Shimoga and Sri Vijayagiri Education Trust in Mysore.
Thaayi Mane provides home for children who are on the brink of extreme poverty and desperate situation. These children receive education, food, guidance support from supportive teachers who guide, mentor and nurture them.
Sri Vijayagiri Education Trust , Bettadapura D.Thammaiah Memorial Navodaya Bettadapura, Periyapattana Taluk of Mysore, Karnataka State – the school is working towards educating underprivileged members of farming community by providing high quality of education and other support systems for the underserved population.
The two dramas of this special evening are: RABDI, which will be presented by the visiting professional team led by Nitish Shridhar; a play that has been presented in India and USA across many cities. It is an entertaining drama with a great social message and powerful performances. Those who watched Nitish’s “VESHA” play at NEKK’s recent Ganeshotsava event will agree that you shouldn’t miss their next offering “RABDI”!
Another drama, NIJA ENANDRE… will be presented by talented members of NEKK, directed by Kedar Risbud. A murder mystery thriller based on an Agatha Christie original – not to be missed! Both these dramas are expected to mesmerize the audience and leave them wanting for more.
We invite all theatre lovers of Boston to attend the event and support Seva Mandaara’s charity projects. Sponsors and advertisers are welcome. Reserve your seats online at – tinyurl.com/AK2017Tickets. Please reach us via email at nekk.ec@gmail.com or rangatarangaboston@gmail.com.
