Delhi: The 25th Bharat Rang Mahotsav, by National School of Drama once again proved why it is hailed as the world’s largest international theatre festival, as the 12th of February unfolded with powerful performances from India and across the world.
Audiences were captivated as “Faces of Olonkho (Based on the Motifs of Sakha Heroic Epic)”, directed by Dr. Mariia Markova, brought Russian folk heritage alive through a compelling theatrical exploration. The production, rooted in ancient Sakha folklore, transported viewers into the mythic universe of the Arctic.
The festival also witnessed the staging of “Mehroon”, written by Sarah Marriam and directed by Amitesh Grover. This Hindi-Bengali drama from Mumbai immersed audiences into its layered narrative, earning heartfelt applause for its emotional depth and contemporary relevance
Under the Jashn-e-Bachpan segment, “Khel Khel Mein”, guided by Devendra Raj Ankur and based on stories by K. Shivkumar, Asghar Wajahat, and Amarkant, entertained younger viewers through its imaginative storytelling and spirited performances.
Another major highlight of the day was “Rumiyana”, written by Shaaz Ahemad and directed by Dadi D. Pudumjee, which blended Hindi and English to present a visually striking and thought-provoking theatrical experience. The production, mounted by a renowned puppet theatre trust, showcased inventive artistry that mesmerised spectators.
The Delhi Univerity sub-venue section of BRM 2026 started with the play “Gudiya Ki Shaadi”, written by Samta Sagar and directed by Sanjay Shrivastava, offered a moving Hindi drama that left audiences reflecting long after the performance ended.
Mauritius brought a unique flavour to the festival with “Samay Chakra”, written by Leenisha Dabydoyal and directed by Rajeshwar Seetohul. Presented in Hindi and English, the play fascinated viewers with its cultural fusion and philosophical themes.
The evening further intensified with “Sita Banbas”, written by Agha Hashar Kashmiri and directed by Atul Tiwari. The powerful Hindi adaptation revisited an iconic mythological chapter while presenting gripping emotions and complex moral dimensions.
The day concluded with the visually stunning “The Old Man and The Sea (Kathakali of the Morrow)”, written by Mohandas Romanta and Aneesh Shanke and directed by Neeraj G. M. The Malayalam production reimagined a global literary classic through the elegance of Indian classical performance tradition, leaving the audience astonished by its artistic ambition.
The days also featured a lively street play, followed by an insightful talk by veteran actor and NSD alumnus Vineet Kumar. Later in the evening, Shruti Mahajan shared her casting experiences with aspiring actors and interacted candidly with the audience, offering valuable insights into the Bollywood casting process.and the Yamini Gupta Band brought vibrant musical energy to the open stage, rounding off an eventful day.
*Vineet Kumar reflected on the spirit of the festival and the power of artistic exchange. He said* _”Being part of the 25th Bharat Rang Mahotsav has been a profoundly enriching experience. This festival is not just a celebration of theatre, it is a celebration of voices, cultures, and artistic courage. Standing here today, sharing my journey with such passionate audiences, reminded me why theatre remains one of the purest forms of human expression. If my words inspired even one young artist to believe in their craft, to question more deeply, or to dream more fearlessly, then this dialogue has fulfilled its purpose. Festivals like these strengthen our artistic fabric and remind us that storytelling will always remain at the heart of societal transformation”
BRM 2026 spans 25 days from 27 January to 20 February 2026, showcasing over 277 productions across 228 Indian and international languages, including several underrepresented tongues. The festival brings together national, international and regional productions, with participation from 9 countries and theatre groups from every state and union territory.
Celebrating India’s theatrical diversity, BRM 2026 includes performances by children’s groups, tribal communities, and artists from marginalised sections, reaffirming NSD’s commitment to inclusivity and the universalisation of theatre.
NSD has been continuously working towards the spread and democratisation of theatre. Recently, it launched Rang Akash, internet radio to promote theatre along with launching its OTT platform Natyam to avail some of its prized productions to theatre lovers across the nation.
