PROFESSIONALS ENSURE TELUGU VERSE DRAMA LIVES LONG

In an era dominated by digital screens and fast-paced routines, a group of young professionals in Vijayawada is breathing a new life into one of India's oldest theatrical traditions—Telugu verse drama or Padya Natakam.

- KV SAILENDRA @Rajamahendravaram

From software engineers and bankers to research scholars and railway employees, these passionate artistes are united by a shared love for the stage and the mentorship of renowned dramatist Dr PVN Krishna. A retired Intelligence Officer and current State president of Sanskara Bharathi, Dr Krishna has played a pivotal role in this cultural revival. Speaking to TNIE, "Drama is not mere entertainment; it is enlightenment. My goal is to create torchbearers who will pass on this sacred art to the next generation."

Ponnapalli Sai Shankar, a software engineer at Infosys in Vijayawada and son of Dr Krishna, balances coding on the day and couplets at night. He has received accolades including the prestigious Nandi, Hanuma, and Garuda awards. "Software is my career, but theatre is my heartbeat," he says.