Udupi (The Hindu): Delay in identification of land has hampered the construction of a zilla rangamandira here.

In fact, four plots chosen by the district administration for the construction of the rangamandira had to be allotted for other projects.

There has been persistent demand by theatre groups and Yakshagana troupes for a zilla rangamandira. The State government had sanctioned Rs. 50 lakh to the Department of Kannada and Culture for the construction of the Rangamandira about five years ago.

Initially, the district administration identified a 1.35 acre plot for the Rangamandira behind the Overhead Water Tank in Manipal, but construction of an approach road to it was thought to be difficult.

Then the administration chose a land belonging to the Department of Women and Child Welfare near Bala Bhavan. But the DWCW wanted it for building facilities for children.

It was later decided to construct the rangamandira in the land behind the taluk office. But that land was provided for construction of Mini Vidhanasoudha. Then, the administration reverted to the 1.35 acre land in Manipal.

Finally, it has decided to construct the rangamandira on 1.91 acre of land at Beedinagudde where the temporary fish market is located.

The administration has directed the Public Works Department to draw estimates for the construction of the rangamandira in Beedinagudde.

“We zeroed in on Beedinagudde because of its flat land and easy accessibility. The estimates are likely to be ready in a couple of weeks,” said R. Vishal, Deputy Commissioner. The proposed auditorium will have about 600 seats and other modern facilities including acoustics. Devadas Pai, Assistant Director, Department of Kannada and Culture, said in addition to Rs. 50 lakh, the department was ready to provide funds upto Rs. 5 crore for the rangamandira as done in other districts.

“Once the estimates and plan are ready, we will forward it to our department. We hope the rangamandira will be ready by March-end next year,” he said.

High rent

Theatre groups, Yakshagana troupes and cultural organisations are now at the mercy of college auditoriums or private halls.

Raviraj H.P., Joint Secretary of Rangabhumi, said theatre troupes and cultural groups had to pay high rent to private auditoriums for their programmes.

“A zilla rangamandira is essential as it will have necessary stage space for organising sets and lighting for plays. Besides, we will have to pay only a nominal fee,” he said.