Lucky Gupta Awarded ‘Tanveer Sanman’; Veteran Theatre Artist Advocates for Unrestricted and Diverse Theatre Content

Anaum Shaikh

Tilak Road, 17th November 2023: An event held at Jyotsna Bhole Sabhagruha on Tilak Road in Pune yesterday, 16th November, marked the bestowal of the prestigious ‘Tanveer Sanman,’ upon Lucky Gupta. Jointly instituted by Dr. Shriram Lagoo’s Rupvedh Pratishthan and Maharashtra Cultural Centre, Veteran Theatre Artist Rajeev Naik presented the ‘Tanveer Sanman’ award to Lucky Gupta, comprising a cash prize of Rs 75,000 and a commemorative memento.

Lucky Gupta, recognized for performing various solo plays across India in over 800 diverse venues under the theme of ‘Theatre on Wheels,’ concluded the event with the 1306th rendition of his play ‘Maa Mujhe Tagore Bana De.’

Lucky Gupta conveyed his gratitude for the award, highlighting how it has inspired him to embark on larger ventures. Dr. Mohan Agashe inaugurated the event, while Rajesh Deshmukh delivered the Vote of Thanks. Gauri Lagoo extended the welcome, Dr. Anand Lagoo elucidated the event’s concept, and Shubhangi Damle moderated the proceedings.

On the occasion, the renowned theatre personality and recipient of the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, Rajeev Naik, emphasized the imperative need for a democratic theatre platform allowing unrestrained content and diverse artistic forms.

Rajeev Naik asserted, “In today’s era, we require a democratic theatre where all forms of plays can be staged without restrictions on venue and where freedom of expression and diverse content presentation are encouraged. In democratic theatre, embracing diverse thoughts without animosity is crucial. It enlightens the audience about their responsibility to introspect alongside their right to critique. Through democratic theatre exploration, other theatrical forms will reach wider audiences.”
He further remarked, “Democratic theatre should not solely represent the majority; it must respect the perspectives of individuals with diverse thoughts. Every person should have the liberty to express their opinions and defend their standpoint while upholding democratic values. Even if an ideology isn’t agreeable, there should be a willingness to listen and consider alternative viewpoints.”

Dignitaries including Dr. Mohan Agashe, S P Kulkarni, President and Chairman of Maharashtra Cultural Centre, Deepa Lagoo, Dr. Anand Lagoo, Shubhangi Damle, Rajesh Deshmukh, and others graced the occasion with their presence.