New format for the age-old Oggu Katha

'Dharmaagraham' is a theatrical adaptation, a folk play staged for the first time in the history of Oggu Katha, using state-of-the-art technology

A folk play of 'Oggu Katha' on 'Renuka Yellamma', 'Dharmaagraham' was staged on April 9, in association with Department of Language and Culture and COSS at Ravindra Bharathi.

Renuka Ellamma is not only mythological story. It is an important angle of historiography that throws light on myriad dimensions of history aand emphasises philosophy of ethics.

The story dwells upon loyalty. Even Gods or Saints should abstain from infidelity and avoid being fickle. Those who emerge from test of fire as pure icons of idealism, will be deified and incarnate. Commitment to the spouse, love towards the children and respect to elders are the signs of loyalty and chastity. The story Renuka Ellamma highlights the necessity of penance for even an iota of fickle idea in mind.

In the Oggu Katha, Renuka Ellamma does not hate her husband who orders to sever her head nor does she stop or curse her child who obeys. She forgives them instead. Her love for them does not change. Her kindness and compassion are worshipped by her devotees.

She sees a reflection of a fairy couple flying, in an unbaked and unburnt earthen pot. A speck of mundane desire sparks in her mind at that vulnerable moment. Unable to tolerate even a small mistake, the earthen pot breaks on its own, spilling the water. Having seen all this with his divine vision, Sage Jamadagni orders her to live in the forest for 12 years to absolve from her sins, and asks his sons to kill her.

Jamadagni represents the anger of the principles and Renuka Ellamma represents repentance and penance. Renuka transforms into Ellamma after entering the tanner 's pit with cassia bark soaked in it. Cassia, botanically a cousin of plant of cinnamon, is an aromatic plant and efficacious bactericide, adding fragrance to objects that come into its contact.

The story much revered and retold in the tradional folk art form of Oggu Katha was recreated using brillinat sets, an engaging script and good performances by young theatre actors. The experimental theatre happening for the first time, sets precedent for many more such initiatives to promote the tradition, art and culture of Telangana.