National School of Drama

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 is fully financed by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. Over the past 50 years, NSD has played a crucial role in shaping contemporary theatre by providing rigorous training and fostering artistic excellence among aspiring theatre practitioners.

NSD offers a highly intensive, thorough, and well-structured three-year training programme that integrates theory with practice. The curriculum is meticulously designed to cover every aspect of theatre, drawing inspiration from the methods of renowned theatre personalities. The training includes systematic studies of Sanskrit drama, modern Indian drama, traditional Indian theatre forms, Asian drama, and Western dramatic protocols, ensuring that students gain a holistic perspective on theatre arts. As part of their training, students produce and perform plays, enhancing their practical learning experience and engaging with audiences.

NSD has two major performing wings: the Repertory Company and the Theatre-in-Education (TIE) Company, each contributing uniquely to theatres in India and beyond.

The NSD Repertory Company was established in 1964 to provide a professional platform for graduates of the school. Initially starting with four artists—Shri Ramamurthy, Ms Meena Williams, Ms Sudha Shivpuri, and Shri Om Shivpuri—the company has since evolved into a major institution within NSD. It regularly stages contemporary, modern, and experimental plays, offering theatre lovers a rich and diverse experience. The company also organises its own annual festival, presenting past and new productions each summer.

Founded on 16 October 1989, the Theatre-in-Education Company, also known as ‘Sanskar Rang Toli’, is one of the most significant theatre education resource centres in India. This wing is composed of actor-teachers who perform and engage with children in schools. The plays created under Theatre-in-Education (TIE) are designed to be interactive, curriculum-based, and age-appropriate, fostering creativity and critical thinking among students. Since its inception, the TIE Company has performed over 800 shows of 26 plays across India, reaching more than 5.5 lakh children, as well as educators, parents, and theatre enthusiasts.

NSD is also actively involved in theatre outreach and education through its Extension Programme and Traditional Theatre Project.

Launched in 1978, the Extension Programme aims to decentralise theatre training by conducting workshops in different parts of India and neighbouring countries like Nepal, and Bhutan. These workshops not only introduce participants to theatre but also contribute to their personality development and emotional growth.

The Traditional Theatre Project, initiated in 1980, bridges the gap between traditional and contemporary theatre. It facilitates creative collaborations between traditional artists and modern theatre practitioners, ensuring that India’s rich theatrical heritage continues to inspire new generations of performers.

NSD also plays a vital role in theatre literature through its Publication Unit, which publishes textbooks, translates significant theatre works from English to Hindi, and brings out research-based publications on theatre. One of its major publications, Rang Yatra, documents the history of the NSD Repertory Company from 1964 onwards. By 2010, the unit had published 82 books on drama and related subjects, further enriching India’s theatre discourse.

Having completed 50 years as an autonomous organisation, NSD continues to shape the future of theatre in India. As part of its commitment to theatre excellence, NSD organises Bharat Rang Mahotsav, India’s largest theatre festival. Launched in 1999, this prestigious festival has reached its 25th edition, marking a milestone in Indian theatre.

The National School of Drama stands as a beacon of excellence in theatre education, training, and performance. As it celebrates 50 years of excellence, NSD continues to uphold its legacy while adapting to the evolving world of theatre. The institution remains dedicated to enriching the arts, inspiring creativity, and fostering new talent for years to come.