Before setting out to assess the Rath Yatra chariots across Bhubaneswar, an esteemed panel of artists, theatre practitioners and cultural commentators gathered for a thought-provoking roundtable on the state of Odisha‘s arts and culture ecosystem.The discussion brought together veteran theatre director and playwright Subodh Patnaik, actor Samarpita Dash, former Sangeet Natak Akademi secretary Pradip Mishra and actor-writer Mamata Tripathi. Reflecting on the current state of theatre, cinema and arts in Odisha, the panel acknowledged both their strengths and challenges.While agreeing that Odisha’s stories, traditions and cultural narratives possess immense global appeal, they stressed the need for stronger promotion and greater visibility beyond the state. The speakers emphasised that younger generations must take ownership of the rich artistic legacy and carry it forward through innovation and fresh ideas.The consensus was clear: Odisha’s cultural community must become more confident, assertive and proactive in marketing its talent, creativity and heritage to the world. Also, the state possesses extraordinary artistic wealth but risks losing its creative future unless it invests in people, originality and rigorous training.Here are their views:PRADIP MISHRA, former Sangeet Natak Akademi secretaryArt and cultureOdisha has one of the richest traditions of art forms in the country. Yet many of its folk arts are slowly dying, and the govt is unable to save them because there are too few people willing to carry them forward. Except for Odissi, hardly any art form from Odisha has received the recognition it deserves on the national stage.Theatre and cinemaIn Odisha, theatre is staged for almost 300 days a year, yet, the quality remains poor. With a shortage of writers, we are increasingly relying on adaptations of plays and films from other regional industries. Original writing is not happening in the numbers it should. Lack of fresh ideas is stunting the growth of our theatre.Taking Odisha to the worldIf Odisha theatre is to connect with audiences across the world, it must create stories that people can relate to and understand. We have seen experimental plays, but they have rarely resonated with audiences. The next generation of theatre artists must be encouraged to produce innovative and original work.Quote: I don’t dislike ‘jatra’; it is loved by the masses for a reason. What I object to are the unnecessary elements and exaggerated voice modulations that lack artistic justification. What worries me is that some of these elements are now creeping into theatre, and I fail to understand why.SAMARPITA DASH, ActressArt and cultureThere is little appetite in youths today for going to the depth of things or understanding the essence of an art form. Many seek instant success and gratification through avenues such as social media reels rather than committing themselves to years of learning and practice.Theatre and cinemaOdisha today faces an acute shortage of writers and technicians, both in cinema and theatre. Very few are willing to invest time and effort required to learn the craft of writing or master the technical aspects of filmmaking. Part of the problem also lies in the erosion of values such as honesty, discipline and dedication among the younger generation.Taking Odisha to the worldIf Odia cinema has to shine on the world stage, the industry needs to ensure that its actors are equipped with proper education in acting. Many assume that being good-looking and a good dancer, or simply having the desire to perform, is enough to become an actor. But acting demands rigorous training, knowledge, vision, sensitivity, observation skills and the ability to understand and express human emotions.Quote: The culture of ‘sadhana’ (practice) is disappearing in youths today; everyone wants instant success, say by making a reel, but no one wants to endure the grind that creates an artist.MAMATA TRIPATHI, Actor-writerArt and culturePeople are not reading books anymore, and that is where the problem with Odisha’s art and culture lies. Literature is the foundation on which theatre, cinema and many other art forms are built. When reading declines, the entire cultural ecosystem weakens.Theatre and cinemaOdisha’s theatre and cinema are suffering from a shortage of strong literary foundations. Good literature can provide excellent material for drama and films. Creative practitioners must cultivate the habit of reading. Equally important is preserving the integrity of original works.Taking Odisha to worldIf Odisha’s art, literature, cinema and theatre are to reach the world, we must first create spaces where generations can meet and learn from one another. Young artists should sit with experienced practitioners to understand the craft, discipline and philosophy behind these creative traditions. Unfortunately, such regular platforms for dialogue and exchange are missing today.Quote: People, who pursue creative professions, should read extensively. Reading has drastically come down among the youth.SUBODH PATNAIK, dramatistArt and cultureWe do not promote ourselves at the national or international level. We feel that self-promotion is not a good practice. But it is a way to get famous and create contacts to move forward. We have a lack of self-review. A self-reflection is needed.Theatre and cinemaTheatre in the state is improving, yet lacks distinctive new names and styles once seen in writing, dialogue, direction and acting. Artists should follow passion and inner conviction, not public demand. Proper training, guidance and a strong hunger to learn is needed.Taking Odisha to the worldOdisha has earned national attention through quality cinema, supported by talented actors, directors and skilled crews. However, theatre still needs significant growth. Organisers often seek strong groups from outside for festivals, while Odia troupes receive few invitations despite hundreds of events nationwide. We must build national appeal and recognition so our theatre groups are invited outside the state for performances.Quote: The theatre situation is improving due to the stagings at drama competitions and festivals. Even youths are developing interest in watching drama along with acting in and directing plays.
