Bhubaneswar, July 19 (UNI) The Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) has urged the Odisha Government to declare the dilapidated Janata Ranga Manch in Cuttack, a living archive of Odia theatre since 1953, as a heritage site.
Established in 1953, the Janata Ranga Manch has played a vital role in sustaining Odisha’s theatre culture and promoting the works of eminent playwrights.
For over half a century, it hosted regular performances and stood as a symbol of artistic expression in the state.
However, the venue was destroyed during the 1999 Super Cyclone and has since operated from a temporary makeshift structure.
INTACH Odisha Chapter Convener Dr. Biswajit Mohanty underscored the historical importance of the Manch and its present state of disrepair. He emphasised that the institution, once vibrant, now lies in ruins.
Deepak Samantaray, Co-convener of INTACH’s Cuttack Chapter, expressed concern over the gradual erosion of the city’s cultural heritage.
“The Ranga Manch was once the pride and glory of the Millennium City. All efforts should be made to declare it a heritage institution,” he said.
Cultural activist Indrajit Ghosh highlighted the institution’s foundational role in Odisha’s theatre movement.
He stressed that granting it heritage status is essential to honour its continuous contribution to the performing arts.
Dr. Ananga Dwivedi, Advisor to Janata Ranga Manch, recalled that Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw—then Collector of Cuttack, had visited the venue and proposed the establishment of an Adarsh Natya Sangrahalaya (Model Theatre Museum), along with comprehensive renovation and development plans.
Veteran filmmaker Subash Rath also advocated for the restoration of the Manch, stating that its revival is crucial for preserving the legacy of the theatre movement in Odisha for future generations.
INTACH will soon submit a collective appeal to the state government, urging it to officially declare Janata Ranga Manch a heritage site and to expedite plans for its restoration and holistic development, said heritage expert Anil Dhir.
