The city saw the best of theatre from around the world under one roof when the 18th edition of ‘Bharat Rang Mahotsav’ was held in the national Capital. From international to Indian plays, Delhiites witnessed amazing performances by theatre artists, who brought life into the plays written by renowned playwrights.
The 18th edition of ‘Bharat Rang Mahotsav’ came to an end as the valedictory ceremony of the annual international theatre festival of National School of Drama’s was held on Sunday at Kamani Auditorium in the national Capital.
Dr Mahesh Sharma, Minister of State (independent charge), Ministry of Tourism & Culture, Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Government of India was the Chief Guest for the evening, while Mannu Bhandari, renowned Hindi writer was the Guest of Honour. Famous Pandwani artist Teejan Bai was the special guest and the ceremony was presided over by Ratan Thiyam, Chairman, National School of Drama Society. Prof. Waman Kendre, Director, National School of Drama was also present during the occasion.
During his address, Dr Mahesh Sharma said: “National School of Drama is an institution of great importance to our country. The government has already earmarked a budget of Rs 180 crores for constructing the new building of NSD, and we are also hoping that the institute gets its status as an institute of national importance in the near future. We are very happy to see that the youth at this institution is actively participating to promote theatre.”
Mannu Bhandari, renowned Hindi writer shared some wonderful anecdotes related to her experiences with National School of Drama and the theatre field and said that this is the time for the new generation to take forward the legacy.
Famous Pandwani artist Teejan Bai said: “I congratulate National School of Drama for celebrating the art of theatre with such splendour. I wish that every artist of this country achieves great heights and promote the culture and heritage of India.”
The 18th Bharat Rang Mahotsav, which was organised from February 1-21, was held across leading venues in the national Capital where best of plays from around the world were staged. The parallel festivals this year took place in Jammu, Ahmedabad, Bhubaneswar and Thiruvananthapuram from February 3-14. Ratan Thiyam, Chairman, National School of Drama Society said: “It was an unforgettable experience of plays during the 21 days of the 18th Bharat Rang Mahotsav. As it concludes, I thank everyone for their wholehearted participation for this edition and hope that the 19th edition in the spring next year is an even better success.”
Prof. Waman Kendre, Director, National School of Drama said: “The 18th edition of Bharat Rang Mahotsav saw over 80 plays from 11 countries (apart from India) being staged and I thank them for making this a truly memorable festival.”