Kannada and Culture Minister Shivaraj Tangadagi assures Ninasam funds for renovating Ranga Mandira at Heggodu in Karnataka

K.V. Akshara, who runs activities at the institute, narrated the history of the institute and its activities. He said that the government of Karnataka had provided altogether ₹8.5 crore for its activities between 1980 and March 2025. The amount provided over 45 years was approximately one-third of the amount spent on the annual Kannada Sahitya Sammelana.

Heggodu (Shivamogga)

Minister for Kannada and Culture Shivaraj Tangadagi has promised funds to renovate Shivarama Karantha Rangamandira and other infrastructure development works of Ninasam in Heggodu, in Karnataka.

He made the announcement after inaugurating Ninasam theatre festival at Heggodu on May 11. Ninasam, which runs a theatre institute, has completed 75 years and has sought funds from the government of Karnataka to renovate its infrastructure in the village.

Mr. Tangadai appreciated the achievements of Ninasam over the decades. The organisation had produced talented artists. With minimum expenses, the institute has recorded impressive achievements. “The State Government is committed to encouraging cultural activities. I will ensure the organisation gets sufficient funds in the current financial year,” he said.

K.V. Akshara, who runs activities at the institute, narrated the history of the institute and its activities. He said that the government of Karnataka had provided altogether ₹8.5 crore for its activities between 1980 and March 2025. The amount provided over 45 years was approximately one-third of the amount spent on the annual Kannada Sahitya Sammelana. “Besides the State Government, the Central Government provided ₹5 crore so far. A few private foundations have contributed funds for the activities. So far, the theatre institute has trained more than 650 students, who have been active in different fields, including cinema and television media,” he said.

Mr. Akshara said the Shivarama Karnath Ranga Mandira was built in 1978 at a cost of ₹85,000. “The time has come to renovate the structure. To change the roof alone, ₹75 lakh is required. We submitted a memorandum to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in 2024, the year when Ninansam completed 75 years. We are requesting funds to continue the activities,” he said.

Sagar MLA Belur Gopala Krishna said that the contribution of K.V. Subbanna, the founder of Ninasam, to Kannthe Kannada literary world and theatre had been immense. He founded the organisation in a village, and brought intellectuals and theatre personalities from different parts of the world. The institute requires funds to continue its activities. “I will ensure the institute gets sufficient funds from the government,” he added.