This week, August 9 to be particular, marks 12 years since the passing of Mithran Devanesan, a noted personality in Chennai’s English theatre space.
Having spent over 35 years in the field, Mithran had directed over 150 plays, and was involved in at least 350 productions. But for B Charles, who runs Chennai Art Theatre, it was Mithran’s humanitarian side that touched him. “Mithran was the first person who showed us that there is an entertainment form called theatre. However, beyond theatre, he has also contributed to many humanitarian activities as a part of The Mithran Foundation he had set up. His epitaph reads ‘Humanitarian and Theatre director’,” says Charles, who will launch the maiden Mithran Theatre Festival in Chennai on August 13. Through the Foundation, he explains, Mithran set up free tuition centres for children in villages that lacked electricity, schools and other basic amenities.
Charles adds, “Mithran is the reason for whatever we have been achieving in the field of theatre, and many look up to him as their mentor. Through this festival, I would like to represent them all. It’s my way of showing gratitude to him.”
