Theatre, though an art requiring subtle understanding and delicate approach, was not thought appropriate for women of ‘good families’ to indulge not far back in time. A few broke barriers to pursue their dreams and some even got support from their families, but criticism came their way often. Thankfully, we now live in a society much more modern and accommodating, where women’s excellence in this art form is not only accepted but cherished. On the occasion of International Women’s Day, ‘The Hitavada’ spoke to a few eminent women who added verve to Nagpur’s theatre, contributing significantly and consistently to the theatre movement, keeping the culture and its essence alive.

Bhumala Kumre, a tribal theatre activist, who hails from Kurkheda in Gadchiroli district, got parents’ support to involve in cultural activities right from her school days. One of the 5 siblings, Bhumala started her acting career with ‘Sangu Nako Kunala’ a social family drama. In fact, her journey in musical plays started the moment she got a chance to share the stage with the legendary Bal Gandharva over 60 years ago. It was a time when female actors were very scarce and actors like Bal Gandharva had to played female characters. Till date, Bhumala acted in almost 3,000 musicals, ranging from ‘Sinhacha Chhava’, ‘Zhashi chi Rani’, ‘Suvarnatula’, ‘Saubhadra’, ‘Sahyandricha Sinha’ performed in Zhadipatti region of Bhandara, Gondia and Gadchiroli districts. Bhumala lamented the declining popularity of her favourite genre ‘Natya Sangeet’. “Young girls and women should learn them and help keep the tradition, a rich cultural legacy of Maharashtra, alive,” she said.