A.P. govt. will revive Telugu theatre, restore artistes’ dignity, says Minister Kandula Durgesh

Andhra Pradesh Minister for Tourism, Culture and Cinematography Kandula Durgesh emphasized the state government's dedication to reviving Telugu theatre, mythological and social dramas, verse-based plays, and folk art traditions while prioritizing artist welfare. During the oath-taking ceremony of 22 new members of the Theatre Academy at Ghantasala Government College of Music and Dance in Vijayawada, Durgesh encouraged the fresh members to champion Telugu art and culture statewide and internationally.

The ceremony, originally scheduled to commence with the annual institution's initiation but postponed due to amendments in a Government Order, saw the appointment of 22 members who were duly honored. Minister Durgesh, who previously engaged in monodramas like Balachandrudu and Veerapandya Kattabomman, revealed that the increased Academy membership from 13 to 22 would soon be accommodated, and financial resources would be made available promptly.

He highlighted the shift to transparent ceremonies, now conducted in the presence of artists, cultural aficionados, and the public, in contrast to the previous secretive practices. Durgesh stressed the collective duty of safeguarding traditional verse-based theatre and folk arts, congratulating the Academy Chairman, Gummadi Gopalakrishna, on receiving a National Award from the Central Government.

He pledged steps to restore the Special Artists' Pension and announced a comprehensive action plan under the Chairman's leadership to aid artists from grassroots to nationally acclaimed levels. Minister Durgesh reassured government backing for the Creativity Society and the Folk and Theatre Academy, pledging to address concerns raised by these committees directly with the Chief Minister, ensuring the allocation of necessary resources and facilities to bolster cultural activities and artist support across the state.