Pune: The Purushottam Karandak Theater Competition, organized by the Maharashtriya Kalopasak (Maharashtra Arts Lovers Association), officially kicked off on Friday (August 16) with lively performances.
The event began with the one-act play ‘Bhreedi,’ presented by the Dr. D.Y. Patil Knowledge City B-School team from Tathawade.
Held at Bharat Natya Mandir, the competition will run daily from 5 PM to 8 PM, with additional sessions on Sundays from 9 AM to 12 PM and 5 PM to 8 PM.
This year marks the centenary of Rajabhau Natu, the founder of the competition, and the 59th edition of the event. The preliminary round judges for this year’s competition include Manjusha Joshi, Gopal Joshi, and Abhijit Makashir.
On the opening day, the Pune District Education Board’s Engineering College (Manajri) performed ‘Aata Wajav,’ while the Engineering and Technology Institute, Pune, presented ‘Bijagari.’
Throughout the competition, which runs from August 16 to August 30, a total of 51 one-act plays will be showcased.
On August 17, the C.O.E.P. Technology University, Pune, will present ‘Jeevan Sathe Underground,’ Zeal Engineering College, Narhe, will perform ‘Parki?’, and P.E.S. Modern Engineering College will showcase ‘Vimochanam.’
The final round of the competition is scheduled for September 21 and 22, with the awards ceremony for the preliminary rounds set for September 28.