Rajshri Deshpande Instagram – Theatre is my first love. I spent my entire childhood performing in front of family guests, school play competitions, state level plays, commercial plays, mimicry, being an orchestra dancer and performer…
But when I moved to Pune for my graduation I couldn’t afford to continue because survival was the main focus. Still I did which was possible with my job.
Then when I found a little courage I moved to Bombay to be an Actor but again to survive in a city like Bombay you have to have work. But along with finding commercial work which will support me i still managed little theatre, assisted in Naseer sirs motley group, did some plays with few other wonderful groups. But full time theatre is difficult.
Theatre is foundation and it’s beautiful but unfortunately not affordable. Most of the people manage their day to day jobs and do theatre just because they love that space.
I wish theatre was promoted or compulsory in schools not just in metro cities but in villages too, I wish theatre folk artist gets livelihood facilities, pensions or some benefits so more n more art, craft , literature and music will be promoted. And artists don’t have to worry about their survival and keep their families secure.
I still remember an age old theatre folk artist I met in Aurangabad city many years ago in a xerox center making copies of his certificates. He told me some 1200 rs. month he will get if he submits all this and with a smirk he said I dedicated my entire life on stage but now I am old and helpless. His cloths were torn, face had wrinkles but his eyes were bright. That’s called stage eyes.
Some people say theatre has become rich man’s world and one cannot make a career out of it but unfortunately it’s truth ? Is it true my theatre walas ? Hope the theatre world proves me wrong. | Posted on 15/Mar/2024 10:04:36
