Shoojit Sircar Says, “I Owe a Lot to Theatre”
The 25th edition of Bharat Rang Mahotsav, organised by the National School of Drama, continued its vibrant journey on Day 23 with a rich display of theatrical diversity and artistic excellence. Recognised as the world’s largest international theatre festival, BRM 2026 once again underlined its commitment to accessibility and inclusivity in the arts.
The Delhi centre staged eight productions, while the Jalandhar and Thrissur chapters concluded their respective editions. Simultaneously, performances were held in Jodhpur, Ujjain and Ladakh. Internationally, the festival extended its footprint with Sapno Ki Udaan, performed on 17 February in Doha, Qatar, by the Indian Women Association at the Indian Cultural Center. Upcoming showcases are scheduled in Suriname and Dubai on 19 and 20 February.
A key highlight of the day was an engaging conversation between acclaimed filmmaker Shoojit Sircar and NSD Director Chittaranjan Tripathy under the Advitya programme organised by the NSD Students’ Union. Sircar reflected on the deep influence of theatre on his cinematic language. “Cinema is an extension of theatre,” he remarked, citing Piku as an example. He shared how even advertising films follow a three-act structure rooted in theatrical storytelling. Remembering the late Irrfan Khan, an NSD alumnus, Sircar noted that actors often approach filmmaking with the same joy as stage performance. He encouraged aspiring actors, saying that sincerity and consistent effort are always recognised in Mumbai’s film industry.
The day featured a strong regional and international line-up. The Toths by Istvan Örkeny was presented by the Liszt Institute Delhi. NSD second-year students staged Gurudakshina. The Bhojpuri play Khulal Rah Gail Khidaki Ke Ego Pala and the Punjabi production Kanak Di Balli added regional depth. Odisha’s Miria, Kerala’s Malayalam solo Agleyum Cliyopat-rayum, Tripura’s Temptations, the Maithili play Sakha, and the Hindi adaptation Bhoot Ki Amakatha drew enthusiastic audiences, including children and young theatre lovers.
The AdiRang 2026 segment also continued with packed venues and a vibrant craft mela celebrating traditional Indian handicrafts.
Running from 27 January to 20 February 2026, BRM 2026 features over 277 productions across 228 languages and dialects, with participation from nine countries and theatre groups representing every Indian state and union territory. Through initiatives such as Rang Akash internet radio and the OTT platform Natyam, NSD continues its mission to democratise theatre and make it accessible nationwide.
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