About Shivakumara Kalasanga
The theatre movement initiated by Sanehalli Dharma peetha is unique and unparalleled in the annals of religious history. Shivasanchara repertory founded by Swamiji has ushered in a new era through its staging of more than 2,650 drama shows throughout the country for the last 18 years.
Aimed at eradication of superstition among the public, to develop in them a sense of communal harmony and religious awareness, to promote education, to develop secular nature and awareness of sanitation the repertory has created a sort of records. Sri Shivakumara Kalasangha, started in 1987, organized dramas, literary ballads, Vachana music and training in dancing at Sanehalli and different parts of the country .
Swamiji’s activities in the field of theatre are remarkable which have, very appropriately earned him the title of RANGA JANGAMA – a vibrant theatre personality. Swamiji is responsible for the construction of Sri Shivakumara open air theatre in Greek style in Sanehalli which can accommodate more than 5,000 people, where many National and International drama festivals were organized successfully.
Perhaps Sri Swamiji is the only pontiff of a religious institution to be awarded Karnataka Nataka Academy fellowship (1998). Swamiji has instituted “Sri Shivakumara award” for the life-time achievement in the field of theatre arts which is considered to be the Nobel award in Kannada theatre field. Sri Shivakumara Award consists of Rs. 25,000 cash prize and a trophy.
