On February 7, 2024, SSMRV College staged the play Chitrapata at the Sourabha 2024 State Level Inter-College Theatre Competition, under the direction of Maltesh Badiger and written by H S Venkatesh Murthy. This folk rendition of the Ramayana introduces a unique twist to the traditional narrative, blending local cultural elements with the epic’s storyline.

In this version, Shoorpanakha, Ravana’s sister, seeks revenge on Rama and arrives in Ayodhya disguised as a Koravanji (a fortune teller). Shoorpanakha manipulates Sita into drawing a portrait of Ravana, and through her magical powers, brings the portrait to life, after which she mysteriously disappears. This creative reconstruction of the Ramayana combines traditional folk elements, including vibrant songs and dances, while offering a fresh perspective on the story. The play explores themes of vengeance, deception, and magic, all presented within the rich context of Indian folk performance, giving the ancient tale a new and engaging dimension.