The resignation of Leena Samson, director of the world renowned Kalkshetra in Chennai, south India is creating a huge buzz among artistes here and abroad.
The news slipped out last week and Leela acknowledged it when her resigantion was known publicly.
Leela had put in her papers a fortnight ago soon after a Board meeting where, one of the issues that seems to have disturbed her was on the question of retirement at the age of 60. It is said that the issue has been raised from some quarters and a legal process was set in motion.
It is not clear if the rules on age and retirement are clear in this case and Leela's interviews to the media indicate that she was unclear about the Government / Ministry rules. Also, it is said that at the recent Board meeting culture secretary Sangita Gairola and Kalakshetra Chairman Gopalkrishna Gandhi questioned Leela on the findings of a recent CAG report indicating financial and administrative irregularities in the Foundation's functioning.
On Sunday though many Board members who did not attend the last meeting publicly said that they would like Leela Samson to continue in the post. So did many dancers and students here. However, no prominent members have made comments to the contrary.
Leela who took charge of Kalakshetra in 2005 set the house in order and made the campus a happening place with a series of fests and workshops and provided space to many other artistes and arts organisations.
Her recent appointment as Head of the National Film Censor Board also raised eyebrows and led to debates. Leela though seems to have settled down well here. Leela also heads the Sangeet Natak Akademi, the country's highest ranking arts body.
Rarely has a person simultaneously occupied the top posts in three high profile bodies.
Few will dispute the talent and capacities, motives and work ethic of Leela Samson. But clearly, a section which has had links with Kalakshetra has challenged many at this campus and raised a stink.
Leela, a Kalakshetra alumnus has been aware of this atmosphere. On a campus related issue some years ago, this is what she had to say on the web site of Prakriti Foundation. "I realise that all this emanates from our 'own' people. It happened with Athai and with Sir and with Rajaram Sir and will happen with anybody else who sits in this chair. It is a curse upon the institute. Others wish Kalakshetra well, but not our own people. I know who they are, for I have the sound advice of Sankara Menon Sir. We know what Athai and he, were harassed by till the very end."
Surely, the present issue will probably witness more twists. The Culture Ministry in Delhi will have to take a call.
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