A Tulu Play Shatters Expectations in Dubai, Leaving Audiences Spellbound!
Imagine a night of uproarious laughter, heartfelt drama, and a story so captivating it leaves you wanting more. That's precisely what happened at the premiere of 'Ponaga Konopara..?', the latest Tulu play by Gammat Kalavider Dubai UAE. This wasn't just another theatrical performance; it was a cultural phenomenon that swept through Dubai on October 11th at the Emirates Theatre, Umm Al Seef, achieving a coveted 'houseful show' status. It's a testament to the power of Tulu theatre and the dedication of Gammat Kalavider in bringing it to the forefront.
This spectacular event was the centerpiece of Gammat Kalavider Dubai's 14th annual celebration, marking a significant milestone for this beloved Tulu theatre group. For over a decade, they've been a vital part of the UAE's cultural landscape, entertaining and connecting the Tulu-speaking community.
The premiere was more than just a play; it was a star-studded affair, attracting prominent figures from various fields. Among the esteemed guests were Dr. B R Shetty, a well-known philanthropist and businessman; Dr. M J Praveen Bhatt, president of Sion Kannada Sangha, Mumbai, showcasing the interconnectedness of Indian cultural organizations; Eshwar Malpe, a renowned diving expert and social worker, whose presence highlighted the importance of service to the community; Walter Nandalike, the visionary founder & managing director of Daijiworld Media, a key media partner; Michael D’Souza, managing director of Ivory Grand; Vishanth Menezes, producer of the Tulu movie 'Kajja', representing the growing Tulu film industry; Praveen Shetty, president of UAE Bunts; Sarvotham Shetty, president of Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha; and Harish Sherigar of ACME Building Materials. The presence of these influential individuals underscored the play's significance and the community's support for Tulu art. All the guests showered the team with blessings and heartfelt wishes for their continued success.
But here's where it gets heartwarming: During the event, Gammat Kalavider took the opportunity to honor two of their own – senior artistes Jasmit Vivek and Monappa Poojary. Their dedication and contributions to Tulu theatre were recognized and celebrated, showcasing the importance of experience and mentorship within the group. They are the backbone of the troupe, having tirelessly worked to promote Tulu culture, and without them, the group would not have reached the heights it has today.
Adding another layer of significance, Eshwar Malpe, the diving expert and social worker, was also recognized for his extraordinary dedication to selfless service. He was bestowed with the prestigious title ‘Tulunad Sevagresare’ (roughly translated to "Prominent Servant of Tulunadu"), a testament to his unwavering commitment to the community. As a token of appreciation and support, Gammat Kalavider also presented his family with financial assistance. This act of generosity speaks volumes about the values of the organization and its commitment to giving back.
And this is the part most people miss: The brilliance of 'Ponaga Konopara..?' lies not only in its captivating storyline but also in the creative minds behind it. The play is based on an original story penned by the talented Dinakar Bhandari Kananjar. Bringing this story to life on stage was the skilled director Vishwanath Shetty, while the creative composition was handled by the renowned theatre director Jagadish Shetty Kenchanakere. Together, they crafted a performance that resonated deeply with the audience, showcasing the power of collaboration and artistic vision. It was presented in a distinctive style, which helped the audience connect with the characters on a deeper level.
The success of the premiere has ignited a wave of demand for encore performances throughout the UAE. Audiences are clamoring for another chance to experience the magic of 'Ponaga Konopara..?', which shows how well it was received. This is a testament to the play's quality and the enduring appeal of Tulu theatre.
The success of the event was also attributed to the leadership of Gammat Kalavider. Lavin Fernandes, the president, Deepthi Dinaraj Shetty, the secretary, Jesh Baiyar, the treasurer, and Harish Bangera, the chief patron, were all present on stage, demonstrating their united commitment to the organization's mission.
No successful event is complete without engaging hosts, and Rajesh Kuthar and Chitra Shetty did not disappoint. Their lively and engaging compering kept the audience entertained throughout the evening, adding to the overall positive atmosphere.
Now, here's something that might spark debate: While the play's success is undeniable, some might argue about the criteria used for honoring individuals. Is the title 'Tulunad Sevagresare' truly reflective of Eshwar Malpe's contributions compared to others in the community? Or are there other unsung heroes whose efforts deserve equal recognition? This opens up a broader conversation about how we define and celebrate service to the community.
Ultimately, the premiere of 'Ponaga Konopara..?' was a resounding success, not only for Gammat Kalavider Dubai but also for the Tulu community in the UAE. It was a night of celebration, recognition, and cultural enrichment. What did you think of the play? And what does it mean to see Tulu culture thriving so far from home? Let us know in the comments below!
