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Book Review
TELUGU
Telugu theatre
SAROJINI PREMCHAND
TELUGU NATAKA SAHITYAM — Hasyarasa Poshana: N. Tarakaramarao; Vahini Book Trust, 1-9-286/3, Vidyanagar, Hyderabad-500044. Rs. 150.
IN SIX well-delineated chapters the author presents his study and analysis of play writing in Telugu literature. Srinatha’s Kreedabhiramam is the first Telugu stage play according to the author. Earlier, Purana exposition, Harikathas, and shadow, puppet and street plays entertained both the literate and illiterate. Later came Bhagavata melas and Yakshaganams. Many other folk arts such as Jangam Kathalu, Burrakathalu and Pagativeshalu showcased the acting and narrative skills of the performers.
In all of them a character was specially created to evoke laughter. Veeresalingam Pantulu was the pioneer in adopting humour for social purpose. Gurajada’s Kanyasulkam is an evergreen satire echoing the tragic state of society of that period as well as the depravity in human behaviour.
Documenting factual information about a number of plays, writers, actors and comedians has enhanced the value of this work. The domination and unswerving role of humour in modern plays is illustrated in detail. Himself a playwright, director and actor, Tarakaramarao’s work stands to substantiate his passion for theatre.
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