Rangamandira project moves forward after decades of struggle

Mangaluru

After more than 40 years of efforts, the long-awaited district theater, Rangamandira, is finally set to become a reality. The necessary administrative approval has been granted, overcoming a major financial hurdle that had stalled the project for years.

The demand for a theater began four decades ago, with former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa laying the foundation stone in 2010 at Bondel, near the Public Works Department staff quarters. Although 3.3 acres of land was designated for the project, the lack of progress turned the site into an overgrown area, with only the foundation stone remaining.

Rajesh R., Assistant Director of the Kannada and Culture Department, stated, "We have received administrative approval, and the file for technical clearance has been sent to the Urban Development Ministry. Once approved, construction can begin."

Initially, the project was estimated to cost ₹25 crore, but financial constraints delayed it. To resolve this, activists proposed a revised plan costing under ₹10 crore, making approval easier.

Shashiraj Kavour, president of the District Rangamandira Struggle Committee, explained, "Projects over ₹10 crore require assembly approval, which was a major obstacle. A simpler, cost-effective plan has now cleared the way for construction."