Katha Dhara Hyderabad event brings theatre to government school students

Katha Dhara Hyderabad event by Katha&Krafts brings theatre to government school students. The initiative introduces government school students to theatre, puppetry and creative expression.

Stories find a stage this weekend in Hyderabad as Katha&Krafts, an activity hub for children to promote learning through storytelling hosts Katha Dhara, its first offline Telugu event for students from six government schools, including Amma Social Welfare Association, a learning centre in Shadnagar.

Scheduled for March 28, the non-profit initiative will bring around 120 children from underserved backgrounds together for theatre and puppetry. Bhoomika Theatre will present three Telugu stories using live music and performance, while Sphoorthi Theatre will stage a puppet show, 31 Dosalu, a humorous folktale.

“The event is also a way to show children that they can step away from screens and engage in more meaningful activities,” says Katha&Krafts founder Kshamatha Chepuri. “Screen exposure is no longer limited to urban spaces; even in rural areas, children often lack access to after-school activities or guidance.”

Renu Chamarthy during a session | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

The initiative hopes to encourage children to connect with others, create crafts, play together and share stories. “They might even take these ideas back to their communities,” she adds.

Originally planned for March 22 to mark World Storytelling Day and World Puppetry Day (March 20), the event was rescheduled due to exams and availability. “With this year’s theme, ‘Light in the Dark’, we hope to be that light offering children a way beyond screen time and a larger-than-life experience in an auditorium,” she says.