Rangrekha Kala Balaga, in collaboration with the Department of Kannada and Culture, Bengaluru, is staging a historical play titled “Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj” in Hubballi on February 18. The play marks the 396th birth anniversary of the Maratha ruler. The programme will start at 5:30 p.m. at Sawai Gandharva Hall in Deshpande Nagar, said Basavaraj Chakrasali, president of the Kala Balaga. Maratha community leader Shivraj Patil will inaugurate the event. Former Rangayana Dharwad director Subhash Narendra will preside over it. Assistant director Kumar Bekkeri and other dignitaries from the Department of Kannada and Culture will also attend. The play is written by Sadhu S. Kathare. Basavaraj Chakrasali, who is directing and designing the stage, will also play the role of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The two-hour programme is open to the public with free entry. Senior artist and singer Tukaram Kathare, Rangabhoomi director Subash Maharvade, and others were present at the announcement. The event promises a cultural tribute to the legendary Maratha figure through drama and art.