Writer and journalist, Tarun Tejpal, has termed the threat of communalism and religious violence as the single biggest threat, which, he claims, can end the dream of India.
Addressing patrons in his capacity as the chief guest at a function organised to mark the 100th show of Francis de Tuem's tiatr 'Reporter' staged at Ravindra Bhavan, Margao on Tuesday, Tejpal said the country is passing through difficult times. Other than challenges such as dirt and hygiene, he felt the threat of communalism and religious violence was looming over the country.
Tejpal reminded the audience that the country had faced such a threat in the year 1947 and termed it as the single biggest threat which can end the dream of India. “The genesis of civilisation is pluralism and inclusive tolerance,” Tejpal remarked.
He, however, expressed optimism about India's ability to withstand this threat. “India has the resilience to withstand this threat,” he added.
Lamenting the fact that his countrymen have become “cowards” and are “scared” to speak against the powers-that-be, Tejpal said it is the job of the artist/journalist to prick the baloon of power.
Earlier, State's Chief Election Commissioner, Narayan Navti, who was the guest of honour, called for documentation of tiatrs, while terming it as a “reflection” of the minds of the people. The documentation of tiatr, Navti said, will help posterity when tiatr as a form of art makes rapid strides in the near future. “Tiatr is a reflection of society and its happenings, and is a tool for improving the society,” he added.
Complimenting Francis de Tuem for completing 100 shows of 'Reporter', noted tiatrist Roseferns informed the audience that 40 shows of this tiatr were staged in villages while the remaining 60 were staged in halls. “After Konkani movie 'Nachom-ia Kumpasar', 'Reporter' is a tiatr which has also created a record of sorts in recent times,” said Roseferns.
Accepting accolades from the audience as well as dignitaries who were present, Francis de Tuem owed his sucess in his tiatr to Fr Crisvao D'Cunha. He profusely thanked the patrons for their support in making 'Reporter' a grand success.
Those present for the function included AN Nagvekar of Ann Institute, Varca panch member Reginald Rodricks and Peter Barreto of Goa Travels.
