Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Priyank Kharge announced a major five-year plan to grow theatre activities in Kalaburagi district. The first step is the Kalaburagi Natakotsava 2026, a week-long theatre festival planned from February 21 to 28. It is organized with the famous Rangashankara Theatre Group led by Arundhati Nag. The festival promises eight days of theatre shows for adults and children. It will also host talks and discussions about theatre. Mr. Kharge said, "Through this theatre festival, the rich cultural legacy and the philosophies and values of Sharanas, saints and Sufis will be conveyed to audiences by expert theatre groups and seasoned theatre artists." Over 200 artists from Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru and other cities will join. The festival will take place at the S.M. Pandit Rangamandir Auditorium with eight key performances: - February 21: Karimayi by Spandana, Bengaluru - February 22: Jo Dooba So Paar by Aranya Theatre Group, Mumbai - February 23: Mukhya Mantri by Kalagangothri, Bengaluru - February 24: Purana Chawal by D For Drama, Mumbai - February 25: Kamarupigalu by Sanchaya, Bengaluru - February 26: About Ram (puppet show) by Katkatha Puppet Arts Trust, New Delhi - February 27: Kalachakra by Karnataka Rangayana, Kalaburagi - February 28: Bob Marley from Kodihalli by Jangama Collective, Bengaluru Children's theatre programs will run from February 22 to 27 at Rangayana, featuring puppet and non-verbal plays by Rangashankara and national groups. Discussions and interactions for theatre fans and practitioners will also be held. Mr. Kharge admitted that theatre activity is limited in the region and said the festival aims to make theatre a regular feature. He added, "Local theatre artists will be given more opportunities in the coming years." Entry for senior citizens will have a small fee, and children can watch shows for free. This plan aims to revive and sustain Kalaburagi's theatre culture over the next five years.