Nagpur: “An artist’s life is full of ups and down, its unpredictable when recognition will arrive, but what count is the constant dedication,” asserted Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, while he was present as the chief guest of a programme organised by Ranjan Kala Mandir at Dr MB Kundle Smruti Sabhagruh, Bhide Girls School, Sitabuldi, Nagpur, on Sunday.
Ranjan Kala Mandir, founded in the year 1950 on Vijayadashami by the late Purushottam Darvhekar ‘Master’, renowned playwright and director, has entered its 75th year. Upendra Date, actor; Janhavi Panshikar, actress and daughter of Prabhakar Panshikar, legendary theatre artist; Naresh Gadekar, Vice President of Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Natya Parishad; Sanjay Pendse, founder of Bal Ranjan under Ranjan Kala Mandir; and Adv Raman Senad were also prominently present on the occasion.
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The ceremony began with lighting of the traditional lamp and offering prayers to Lord Natraj. A group of budding artists presented a welcome song. In his address, Nitin Gadkari highlighted the valuable contributions of Purushottam Darvhekar and Prabhakar Panshikar. He stated, “We have a rich legacy of Marathi theatre, cinema, and literature, which is being cherished and taken forward by artists who truly understand its worth.”
Speaking on the life of an artist, Gadkari remarked that it is filled with ups and downs, and recognition can be unpredictable, with stability being elusive. He praised Bal Ranjan for fostering and producing exceptional talent, noting that emerging artists are being trained within the legacy of Darvhekar. He concluded by encouraging artists to continually strive to improve their skills and pursue something exceptional, assuring them that they will ultimately receive what they deserve.
In her address, Janhavi Panshikar said that it was her duty to attend the programme to honour the legacy of Purushottam Darvhekar and Prabhakar Panshikar. She stated, “It is often said that the values instilled in childhood last a lifetime, and I strive to live by the principles and lessons taught to me by Masterji”.
Upendra Date also addressed the gathering briefly and spoke about theatrical artistry. Dr Abhijeet Ambhaikar presented some selected poems, starting with a poem titled ‘Radharpan’ dedicated to Goddess Radha, and said that whenever there is a mention of love, instantly Radha-Krishna are remembered. Sanjay Pendse spoke about how Ranjan Kala Mandir started, its journey, contribution of Purushottam Darvhekar to theatre and the initiation of Rajya Naatak Mahotsav by the latter.
Adv Raman Senad remarked that many artists at Ranjan Kala Mandir have roots in previous generations, and he hopes their next generation will continue it. He also discussed the future vision for Kala Mandir and the resolutions made in anticipation of its 75th year. Dr Anjali Bhandarkar conducted the proceedings of the programme.
