Art must transcend boundaries to sustain creativity, says writer
Kannada writer and critic Rahmat Tarikere stated on Sunday that art, literature, music, cinema and theatre reach their highest expression only when they transcend the
Kannada writer and critic Rahmat Tarikere stated on Sunday that art, literature, music, cinema and theatre reach their highest expression only when they transcend the boundaries of religion, language, caste and geography. Speaking after presenting awards to theatre artists honoured by Ranga Sangama Kala Vedike during its 13th edition of annual awards ceremony in Kalaburagi, Prof. Tarikere said that creativity thrives only when it is free from narrow identities. “Art is like a river. The moment it is confined within the boundaries of ideology or identity, it loses its vitality. Civilisations have enriched themselves through cultural exchanges and every enduring artistic tradition is the product of such cross-pollination,” he said. Tracing the evolution of Indian performing arts, he said that cinema and theatre have never been mere instruments of entertainment but have served as powerful vehicles of social reform, political awakening and empowerment.
“They have consistently held a mirror to society while also shaping its conscience,” he observed. Describing Kalyana Karnataka region as “the land of both suffering and saints”, Prof. Tarikere said that the region’s cultural legacy is deeply rooted in the inclusive philosophy of Sufism which has profoundly influenced its music and artistic traditions. He expressed concern over increasing polarisation in the cultural sphere saying that art and music are increasingly being viewed through the prism of religion and language. “When art becomes a vehicle for division rather than dialogue its soul is diminished,” he remarked. Referring to the growing trend of propaganda-driven films and stage productions, he cautioned that reducing art to ideological messaging will erode its creative spirit.
“Art that surrenders its autonomy at the altar of propaganda ceases to illuminate society. If this tendency continues unchecked, we risk silencing the very imagination that sustains culture,” he said. Progressive thinker R.K. Hudgi criticised the manner in which awards are selected saying that lobbying has begun to overshadow merit. He said that controversies surrounding honours such as the Nobel Prize and the Oscars showed that award processes are not beyond criticism. He claimed that even prestigious civilian awards in India have, at times, gone to undeserving recipients. “The true dignity of an award lies not in the recipient seeking recognition but in the institution recognising merit. Awards should pursue artists not the other way round,” he said and added that deserving artists should be identified through their body of work rather than being required to apply for honours.
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