Mangaluru: The open-air amphitheatre at Rajaji Park could soon become a regular venue for cultural programmes, with Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) commissioner Rahul Ratnam Pandey proposing weekly or fortnightly events to showcase local talent.Speaking during the ‘Walk with Commissioner’ event on Thursday, Pandey said Mangaluru has a strong cultural tradition and the amphitheatre can provide a dedicated platform for artists. “Let us conduct a one-hour cultural programme once a week or once in 15 days at the open theatre. People will come if we hold it here,” he said.Pandey suggested that the first one or two programmes, or events held during the initial month, could be organised free of cost. Ticketed events could be introduced later to support artists and make the initiative sustainable. The first programme is expected to be held within the next 15 days.The proposal follows Pandey’s inspection of the amphitheatre on Sept 1, when he directed officials to explore installing a high-quality sound and lighting system and upgrading stage facilities to support regular cultural events. He also asked officials to examine the feasibility of levying a user fee for the maintenance and use of the venue.The amphitheatre is part of the Town Hall precinct developed under the Smart City Mission. The pedestrian plaza and park near the Clock Tower were inaugurated in Oct 2022 as part of a Rs 12-crore project executed by Mangaluru Smart City Ltd. The project also included a 24-metre pedestrian underpass linking the Central Market side with Mini Vidhana Soudha.The proposal comes even as the amphitheatre has already been used for a range of activities. Mangaluru Smart City Ltd general manager (technical) and in-charge general manager (administration) Arun Prabha KS said the venue has hosted several cultural programmes, besides events for Gandhi Jayanti and Independence Day. It has also been used for protests, including one held around 10 days ago.Arun Prabha said organisations and individuals planning full-day events at the venue must obtain permission. While the amphitheatre is not officially designated for protests, such programmes have been held there. He added that the facility is cleaned daily and is being maintained regularly.
