“I’m part of the Surabhi Drama Family that’s been around for 140 years, starting in 1885 in a small village in Kadapa district, Andhra Pradesh.
Surabhi Drama Group started with a play called Keechaka Vadha. Back then, we performed in small tents and traveled from town to town every few months. We carried our performances with us, always on the move. Over time, we grew into multiple troupes, spreading across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. The one thing that has always kept us together is passion for stage dramas and passion towards traditional arts to keep this tradition alive.
For many years, we worked in films, but always in small roles. A scene here, a shot there—but it was enough for us to stay connected to the larger world of entertainment. Then, about a year and a half ago, we were given an incredible opportunity. We were offered a chance to act in the recently released web series, Hari Katha. This time, it wasn’t just a small role. The entire Surabhi troupe was involved, with full supporting roles acting alongside Rajendra Prasad Garu was a huge moment for all of us.
To see our group on screen, after all these years of small parts, felt like a true recognition of the work we’ve been doing.
The pandemic was a tough time for us. Like everyone else, our live performances were put on hold. We turned to online shows to stay connected with our audience. It wasn’t the same as performing in front of a live crowd, but it helped us keep our art alive. Now, we’re back on stage, and the energy from the crowd is something I can’t put into words.
One of the things I’m proudest of about Surabhi is how inclusive we are. Men and women of all ages participate in the performances which has been a part of our tradition for a long time. It’s about breaking barriers and pushing boundaries.
As we celebrate 140 years of Surabhi Drama Culture in two Telugu states, I feel grateful for the chance to be part of this journey. It’s not just about the roles we play or the performances we put on. It’s about carrying forward a tradition that has lasted over a century.”
- Surabhi Jayanand Rakendar, Performer