Ten Buddhist plays mark rare contribution to Kannada theatre, says Basavaraj Hugar

Bringing the philosophical and ideological essence of Buddhism to the stage is a challenging creative exercise, and the writing of ten plays based on Buddhist thought by playwright Ishwar M. Ingan is a rare and pioneering contribution to Kannada theatre, said Basavaraj Hugar, Joint Director of the Department of Kannada and Culture, Kalaburagi Division.He was speaking after the inauguration of lecture and interaction programme on the Ten Buddhist Plays of Mr. Ingan, organised jointly by the Department of Kannada and Culture and Rangayana, Kalaburagi, at the Rangayana auditorium here on Thursday.Mr. Hugar said that Mr. Ingan deserved credit for producing such an extensive body of dramatic literature centred on Buddhist philosophy, describing it as the first effort of its kind in Kannada theatre.Former Director of Kalaburagi Rangayana Prabhakar Joshi said the plays blend historical narratives with philosophical interpretation while remaining relevant to contemporary social realities.Senior writer Shreeshail Nagaral observed that drama is one of the most complex art forms, combining acting, dialogue, music, dance and stagecraft. He said it was commendable that all ten Buddhist plays had attained high literary standards despite the complexity of the medium.Rangayana Director Sujatha Jangamashetti stressed the need to take progressive plays based on Buddhist philosophy and Vachana literature to a wider audience. She also appreciated Mr. Ingan’s efforts to encourage young theatre talent.Sharing the inspiration behind the plays, Mr. Ingan said biographies of the Buddha and stories of Buddhist women available in a Buddhist Vihara library motivated him to undertake the project.Head of the Kannada Studies Institute, Gulbarga University, H.T. Pote, Rangayana Administrative Officer Sidram Sindhe, writers and literary enthusiasts, including M.B. Katti, Shailaja Bagewadi, Santosh Kambar, Narayan Kulkarni, Arun Joladakudligi, Suryakant Sujyat, Vasant Nasi, and Rangayana repertory artistes were present. Published - July 30, 2026 10:07 pm IST