M. K. Raina Biography 
M. K. Raina is a veteran theater artist known as a stage director and actor. His full name is Maharaj Krishna Raina. Since 1972 he has been freelance theater personality who works in several regional languages. Raina received the Sangeet Natak Akademi award in 1995 and the Swarna Padak from Government of Jammu and Kashmir in 1996 for his contribution to Indian Theater. He has also been honored with the Sanskriti Samman in 1980, the Sahitya Kala parishad Award in 1981, Best Director of the year by West Bengal Government 1982, the Best Director's award of Punjabi Akademi, Delhi in 1987 and B.V. Karanth award for lifetime achievement in 2007.
He was born in 1948 in Srinagar, Kashmir where he spent his childhood. He was born in a family of intellectuals. His schooling and graduation were also done at his hometown. He moved to National School of Drama, Delhi on a state scholarship. He completed graduation in 1970 with best actor award. His father was also a Political activist which later influenced Raina a lot in his artistic career. "27 Down" was his debut movie as a director. He played lead role as well. In a career spanning to more than 4 decades, he has produced over 130 plays in 13 languages.
He has been associated with both rural and urban theater and helped him to develop a unique style. Kabira Khada Bazar Mein, Karmawali, Lower Depths, Anda Yug, Pari Kukh, Kabhi Na Chooden Khet and The Mother are his memorable works. He has worked as a stage actor in more than 100 plays. He has also made several documentary films. Most recently he was has appeared in a few Bollywood movies playing supporting roles.
Published: N/A
Updated: February 16, 2014
