Curtain Rises on Rotary Club Shivajinagar’s One-Act Play Competition in Pune

Rotary Club Shivajinagar Inaugurates the Swati Kshirsagar Trophy One-Act Play Competition in Pune

Pune, October 6:
The much-awaited Swati Kshirsagar Trophy One-Act Play Competition, organized by the Rotary Club of Shivajinagar, was inaugurated at the Bharat Natya Mandir in Pune with great enthusiasm and cultural fervor. The inaugural ceremony was graced by Dr. Girish Oak, renowned theatre and film actor, writer, and one of Maharashtra’s most respected cultural icons.

The event drew a large audience comprising theatre lovers, students, and art enthusiasts who gathered to celebrate the vibrant legacy of Marathi drama.

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Inauguration Marks Beginning of a Cultural Festival

The opening ceremony witnessed the symbolic lighting of the lamp by Dr. Girish Oak, who praised the Rotary Club’s efforts to promote theatre as a meaningful art form in modern times. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Oak emphasized the need to nurture young talent and preserve the power of live performance in an era dominated by digital entertainment.

“Theatre has the ability to connect people emotionally. Every performance on stage reflects the pulse of society,”
said Dr. Oak, inspiring participants and spectators alike.

Present at the inauguration were Rotary Club Shivajinagar President Alka Kamble, Secretary Abhishek Jadhav, District One-Act Play Convenor Ashwini Ambike, Co-Convenor Shilpa Naik, and competition judges Subodh Pande, Chinmay Patskar, and Rasmita Shahapurkar, along with several Rotary officials and members who attended in large numbers.

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Encouraging Young Talent Through Theatre

The Swati Kshirsagar Trophy has become a prominent annual platform for young and emerging theatre artists in Pune. It aims to encourage creative expression and provide opportunities for aspiring playwrights, directors, and actors.
Participating teams from colleges and independent groups will present one-act plays exploring a wide range of social, emotional, and contemporary issues, giving audiences a taste of thought-provoking storytelling.

Rotary Club officials noted that the competition’s objective goes beyond entertainment — it is about community engagement, cultural preservation, and artistic growth.

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Judges and Experts to Recognize Excellence

The judging panel, consisting of experienced theatre professionals, will evaluate the plays based on performance, direction, originality, and social relevance. Winners will be honored with the Swati Kshirsagar Trophy, cash prizes, and certificates during the valedictory function scheduled later this week.

Club Secretary Abhishek Jadhav expressed his gratitude to all participating teams and supporters, noting that such initiatives strengthen Pune’s position as the cultural capital of Maharashtra.

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Rotary’s Continued Commitment to Culture

The Rotary Club of Shivajinagar has long been recognized for its social, educational, and cultural initiatives. By organizing events like this one, the club not only supports the performing arts but also creates an inclusive platform for youth development and creative exchange.

The vibrant atmosphere at Bharat Natya Mandir reflected Pune’s deep-rooted connection with theatre and performing arts — proving once again that the city continues to be the heartbeat of Maharashtra’s cultural scene