Theatre buffs protest move to postpone ITFoK '25

THE Kerala Sangeeta Nataka Akademi's (KSNA) decision to extend the dates of the International Theatre Festival of Kerala (ITFOK) 2025 has sparked widespread concern across social media platforms.

- GOPIKA VARRIER @Thrissur

Theatre enthusiasts, united under the banner of NATAK, have launched a hashtag campaign with the slogan #NirtharuthuITFOK to express their discontent.

The 15th edition of ITFOK was initially scheduled for February 2025, with entries open until November 10. However, following the receipt of entries from both national and international theatre groups, the Akademi recently sent emails apologising for the uncertain postponement of the festival.

The sudden delay has fueled speculation that this might signal the end of ITFOK altogether, igniting a significant controversy in Kerala. Protests have emerged from leftist thinkers and theatre artists, prompting a response from KSNA secretary Karivellur Murali.