S B Kavitha, a researcher at the University of Mysore (UoM), has been awarded a PhD for her thesis titled ‘Aadhunika Kannada Natakagallali Mysurina Sanskrutika Parampare’ (Cultural Heritage of Mysuru in Modern Kannada Plays). Her research fills a notable gap in the academic exploration of the Wadiyar dynasty's representation in Kannada drama. Analyzing 22 plays, Kavitha's work examines the political, social, and economic administration of the Mysuru Kingdom over nearly 400 years. She noted the scarcity of studies focused on the Wadiyars, despite the abundance of research on historical and mythological plays. Kavitha's findings suggest that these dramas not only reflect the past but also mirror contemporary political realities, as illustrated in Samsa's play ‘Vigada Vikramaraya’, which critiques power and corruption. The research heavily draws on the works of Samsa, a prominent historical playwright, who authored six of the plays analyzed. Kavitha's personal connection to theatre, stemming from her family's legacy, further enriches her academic pursuit, as she believes plays convey societal messages more effectively than cinema.