Tiatr enthusiasts in Goa are facing disappointment as the Pai Tiatrist auditorium at Ravindra Bhavan, Margao, will remain shut until June 1 — a week longer than initially announced. The extension, confirmed by Chairman Rajendra Talak, follows a red alert for heavy rains that disrupted the ongoing roof replacement work, which began on May 18. Talak cited safety concerns for workers after unexpected rainfall hit the region just a day later.
Due to the delay, 12 scheduled tiatr performances have been cancelled. The management has promised to give priority to affected producers for rescheduling once the venue reopens. Talak urged understanding from artists, producers, and the public, stressing that the decision was made to ensure safety and uphold venue standards.
However, the extended closure has drawn sharp criticism from the cultural community. Artist and former Goa State Cultural Development Committee member Vishal Pai Cacode slammed the move as poorly managed and accused Talak of neglecting the interests of the artist community. He questioned the timing and transparency of the repairs, highlighting that nearly ₹2 crore has already been spent on the roof over the past two years. Pai Cacode also raised concerns about possible financial mismanagement and administrative apathy.