Rajkamal Circus all set to enthral people in twin cities

Dharwad: Owing to stringent rules and regulations about the use of animals, circus, which was once an important source of entertainment, has been on the verge of extinction. Meanwhile, some determined companies are struggling to revive it and keep the show going on.With the closure of many famed circus companies, hundreds of artistes who put their lives at risk to enthral the audience with daring acts, are now facing uncertainty. Their fate hinges on the audience.Rajkamal Circus company, which has camped near Navalur bridge off Dharwad, has appealed to the people to extend their support to run its shows successfully."In the present scenario, the definition of entertainment has changed and people have many options like social media and OTT to entertain them. Therefore, the traditional entertainment media like drama, circus, puppetry etc are dying out," said social activist SM Ron.Speaking to reporters at Rajkamal Circus Company, he said: "Circus has flourished as a medium of entertainment for centuries. Circus companies are especially successful in entertaining people without calculating profits and losses. Since animals are banned in the circus, the number of people visiting to watch the circus has come down drastically. Despite all this, Rajkamal Circus is trying to entertain people with artistes from across the country. People should come in large numbers and support their efforts, " he said.He said the state and the central govts should provide financial stability to circus company owners and artistes through necessary grants and schemes.Maharashtra-based Rajkamal Circus Company owner Rafeek Shaikh said the ban on animals in circus and uncertainties like Covid-19 have dealt a deadly blow to circus companies. "However, we are trying to entertain with a total of 36 elements including gymnastics, jokers, flying trapeze etc. Besides, to run a circus company, there are problems like management of artistes, rent, govt permissions and more. Every day, we have to spend Rs 35,000 to keep it running," he said and added that people should come to the company's rescue.Rajkamal Circus Company is organising shows on the ground adjacent to Ozone Hotel, near Navalur bridge in the city. There will be three shows daily (1pm, 4pm, 7pm).