Mandala Theatre Group launched the first ever mobile theatre in Nepal, Junkiri, at its premises in Anamnagar, on Friday. The event saw the presence of literati, cultural experts, theatre enthusiasts, and actors from the Nepali film industry.

Chief guest of the programme, nonagenarian veteran cultural expert and litterateur Satya Mohan Joshi inaugurated the Junkiri and elaborated on the historical perspective of Nepali theatre and its development, “Like mathematics and music, drama also speaks a universal language, that is why we have to promote the status of theatre here. This mobile theatre will define the changing mode of performance art, and can reach all Nepalis connected to a motor road.”

Rajan Khatiwada, the artistic director of Mandala Theater, was elated with the launch of the mobile and said it was a dream-come-true  for him. 

“However, this is not only my dream, this is the dream of all passionate theatre workers; I hope this bus will go on to decentralise the Nepali theatre scene,” added Khatiwada. He is of the opinion that this new concept, by helping theatre artists reach far-flung corners of the country, will open new possibilities for the Nepali theatre. 

The Mandala theatre group is all set to visit the 15 earthquake-affected districts with their new production, Maan Chinle Firentee.

 “This mobile theatre is for those thousands of people who want to see the play, but can’t come here,” added Khatiwada.