Nurturing future stars: 21st Maharashtra state children’s theatre fest begins

Nagpur: The Nagpur divisional round of the 21st Maharashtra State Children's Theatre Competition kicked off with great enthusiasm at Scientific Society Hall on Thursday. Ajay Patil, president of Marathi Natya Parishad's Nagpur branch, emphasised the importance of children's theatre in nurturing future artists and actors."Children's theatre is vital as it fosters a love for the stage. It moulds individuals into lifelong patrons of drama, and many of our accomplished film actors emerge from this foundation," said Patil, expressing gratitude to state govt for organising this competition for 21 years, ensuring consistent encouragement for young talent.The event saw eminent personalities like actor and theatre enthusiast Pooja Pimpalkar, actor Sachin Giri, playwright Rupesh Pawar, and deputy director of the Cultural Affairs Sandeep Shende in attendance. Cultural affairs minister Ashish Shelar extended his best wishes to the participants through a special video message.The day began with "Beej Ankurale" presented by the Stree Shikshan Prasarak Mandal. Directed by Pallavi Deshmukh and written by Dr Satish Salunkhe, the play touched hearts with its portrayal of a sister's sacrifice to fulfil her younger sibling's simple desire for a bicycle.Next came "Chimi Ani Manu," staged by the primary section of Dadibai Deshmukh Hindu Mulinchi Shala. Directed by Vandana Bankar, this play addressed pressing environmental concerns such as deforestation and the decline of the bird population.The secondary section of the same school presented "Amulya Jeevan," focusing on water scarcity and its impact on human lives. Directed by Anita Surkar, the play highlighted the urgent need for water conservation.A standout performance was "Scholarship" by Swanand Cultural Group. Written by Amol Dongarwar and directed by Amol Nimbarte, the play depicted how good deeds can bring unexpected rewards in life.Sheel Kala Sagar's "Zep" tackled the issue of radiation from satellites and its harmful effects on birds. Directed by Yogesh Raut, the play featured a committed cast who sincerely executed the theme.The day concluded with a humorous take on the classic Akbar-Birbal tales in "Akbar Birbal ka Bioscope," presented by Tandav Creation. Written by Yogesh Raut and directed by Kishore Battase, the play was a riot of laughter, imagining Karan Johar conducting auditions in Birbal's court.