DRAMA
Company
A Legacy of Theatre, Innovation & Community
Surabhi is one of the oldest and most popular theatrical groups in India. It was founded in by Vanarasa Govindarao and Vanarasa Chinna Ramaiah in 1885 in the Sorugu village of Andhra Pradesh. The village later came to be known as Surabhi, owing to the popularity of the organization. The founding members of the Surabhi organization came from humble agrarian families who were puppet show performers. They gradually transitioned into performing live dramas in the surrounding villages. Early Surabhi dramas like Keechaka Vadha were performed on simple tree platforms (Rachabanda), with sarees used as stage curtains, and charcoal and lime for makeup. What started as such occasional performances gradually evolved into a hereditary, family-run theatre group that blended art, livelihood, and community into one living institution. The collective, family-oriented model of the group meant that men, women, and children from the same households worked together, removing rigid hierarchies and fostering a cooperative economic structure.
Mythological Stage Excellence
Family-Driven Cultural Institution
- Pioneers of live special effects in Indian theatre
- Strong influence on Telugu theatre and cinema
Years of
Legacy
Influence Beyond The Stage
Surabhi’s influence extended far beyond the theatre stage, shaping the evolution of Telugu cinema and cultural storytelling. Through legendary productions, iconic artists, and innovative stagecraft, Surabhi became a foundation for generations of performers, filmmakers, and audiences alike.
✔ The play Sasirekha Parinayam inspired the iconic film Mayabazar.
✔ Veteran Surabhi artists like Krishnaji Rao and Kamalabai were part of Bhakta Prahlada, the first talkie Telugu film.
✔ Surabhi shaped the early years of Telugu theatre and cinema with storytelling, discipline, and technical brilliance.
MAYABAZAR
Surabhi is not just a theatre group. It is a legacy of art, innovation, values and compassion that continues to inspire generations.
The art of ADBHUTA(Wonder)
Pioneering stage effects that turned mythological storytelling into unforgettable visual experiences.
Flying Chariots
Spectacular aerial sequences created the illusion of celestial chariots soaring through the skies. These innovative effects brought divine mythology to life on stage.
Vanishing & Fire Acts
Ingenious stage tricks amazed audiences with magical disappearances and sudden transformations. Surabhi became famous for creating wonder through theatrical illusion techniques.
Divine Transformations
Mythological characters transformed dramatically using costumes, lighting, and visual effects. These magical moments turned performances into immersive spiritual experiences.
The Pillars of Surabhi
I
UNIQUE FAMILY SYSTEM
Men, women and children from the same families work together - removing hierarchies and building a cooperative structure.
II
Women at the Forefront
Surabhi encouraged women to perform fenale roles, setting an early example of gender inclusion in Indian theatre and influencing Telugu cinema.
III
Service to Society
Beyond theatre, Surabhi has always contributed to communities through education, public utilities and cultural outreach.
IV
ARTISTIC INNOVATION
Surabhi pioneered imaginative stagecraft, combining traditional storytelling with groundbreaking theatrical techniques and visual creativity.
Honoured Heritage
Continuing the rich legacy of Surabhi theatre, Jayanand has played a vital role in preserving and modernizing the organization for future generations. From supporting artist families during difficult times to expanding Surabhi’s reach through digital and OTT platforms, his efforts have strengthened the cultural heritage of this historic theatre tradition. For his remarkable contributions to drama and cultural preservation, Jayanand was honoured with the prestigious “Ismail Gonal Prashasthi Puraskar”.
Achievements
Years of Theatre Legacy
Cultural Performances & Productions
Live Drama
Cultural Heritage
Mythological Magic
Timeless Tradition
Family Theatre Legendary productions
Bala Nagamma
A timeless folklore drama filled with devotion, bravery, and magical storytelling.
Maya Bazaar
One of Surabhi’s most iconic mythological productions inspired by the Mahabharata.
Daksha Yagnam
A powerful spiritual drama portraying sacrifice, divine anger, and cosmic justice.
Palnati Yuddham
An epic historical play showcasing courage, valor, and legendary battlefield conflicts.
Carrying the Legacy Forward
Community Support
During COVID, with the support of donors & NGOs, Surabhi provided financial assistance, food, and medicine to artist families.
Cultural Preservation
Preserving traditional theatre arts for future generations through cultural programs and live performances.
Digital Expansion
Bringing Surabhi plays to online and OTT platforms for wider digital reach preserving the magic of traditional live storytelling for future generations.
Global Reach
Taking timeless Surabhi stories to audiences across India and around the world.
The Team Behind Surabhi
Surabhi is powered by a dedicated family of artists, performers, technicians, and visionaries who continue to preserve and celebrate India’s rich theatrical heritage. Through generations of passion, creativity, and teamwork, they keep the magic of Surabhi alive on stage and beyond.
Surabhi Vasudeva Rao
7th generation
Leading the vision and preservation of the historic Surabhi theatre tradition with decades of dedication and cultural leadership.
Surabhi Jayanand
8th Generation
An accomplished theatre artist and organizer who started as a child artist iscommitted to modernizing Surabhi and expanding its reach to digital and OTT platforms.
