The early 1980s is considered the golden period for Tamil stage plays, because of the patronage extended to theatre groups by several sabhas in the city and the State as well. Despite the advent of other forms of entertainment, there are troupes and actors, who have been steadfast in their commitment to the Stage.

D. Balasundaram belongs to this club. When this writer met him, he was in a rehearsal session at Vani Mahal, for his play ‘Deiva Sekkizhar’, to be staged at the Kovur temple. Balasundaram dons the roles of an actor, producer and director with élan.