Bharat Rang Mahotsav

National School of Drama: 50 Years of Excellence in Theatre

The National School of Drama (NSD) is one of the foremost theatre training institutions in the world and the only one of its kind in India. Established in 1959 as a constituent unit of the Sangeet Natak Akademi, NSD became an independent entity in 1975. It was registered as an autonomous organisation under the Societies Registration Act XXI of 1860 and continues to be fully financed by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.

For over five decades, NSD has played a defining role in shaping contemporary theatre by providing rigorous training and nurturing artistic excellence among aspiring practitioners.

Comprehensive Training in Theatre

NSD offers a highly intensive three-year programme that blends theory with practice. Its curriculum draws inspiration from leading theatre traditions worldwide and covers:

• Sanskrit and modern Indian drama
• Traditional Indian theatre forms
• Asian dramatic traditions
• Western dramatic protocols

This holistic approach equips students with a well-rounded understanding of theatre. As part of their training, students produce and perform plays, gaining invaluable stage experience and engaging directly with audiences.

Performing Wings of NSD

NSD Repertory Company

Founded in 1964, the Repertory Company provides a professional platform for NSD graduates. Starting with just four artists—Shri Ramamurthy, Ms Meena Williams, Ms Sudha Shivpuri, and Shri Om Shivpuri—it has grown into a major institution that stages contemporary, modern, and experimental plays. The company also organises an annual summer festival, showcasing both past and new productions.

Theatre-in-Education Company (Sanskar Rang Toli)

Launched on 16 October 1989, Sanskar Rang Toli is NSD’s Theatre-in-Education (TIE) wing and one of India’s most significant theatre education resource centres. Comprised of actor-teachers, the TIE Company creates interactive, curriculum-based plays designed for children.

• Over 800 shows of 26 plays performed since inception
• Reached 5.5 lakh children across India
• Engages with students, educators, and parents to foster creativity and critical thinking.

Outreach and Cultural Initiatives

Extension Programme

Started in 1978, this initiative decentralises theatre training by conducting workshops across India and in neighbouring countries such as Nepal and Bhutan. These workshops introduce participants to theatre while also contributing to personality development and emotional growth.

Traditional Theatre Project

Initiated in 1980, this project bridges traditional and modern theatre. It facilitates collaborations between folk artists and contemporary practitioners, ensuring India’s rich theatrical heritage continues to inspire new generations.

Contribution to Theatre Literature

NSD’s Publication Unit enriches India’s theatre discourse by publishing textbooks, translations, and research-based works. One of its notable publications is Rang Yatra, which documents the history of the Repertory Company since 1964. By 2010, the unit had published 82 books on drama and theatre-related subjects.

Bharat Rang Mahotsav: India’s Largest Theatre Festival

As part of its commitment to theatre excellence, NSD organises Bharat Rang Mahotsav, launched in 1999. This prestigious annual festival has become a global platform for theatre exchange, and in 2024, it celebrated its 25th edition—a landmark in Indian theatre history.

A Commemorative Tribute

As NSD celebrates 50 years of autonomy, the release of a commemorative postage stamp pays tribute to its extraordinary contributions. Much like the performances that come alive under its roof, the stamp serves as a symbol of India’s theatrical spirit—eternal, expressive, and ever-evolving.

The National School of Drama is not just an institution; it is a movement. It has nurtured countless voices, preserved timeless traditions, and created platforms where art and society engage in meaningful dialogue. Through this stamp, the nation honours an institution that has given India and the world generations of storytellers—artists who continue to enrich the stage of humanity.