Sri Vijaya Puram, July 15: As part of the nationwide celebrations marking the 150th anniversary of the National Song Vande Mataram and the birth anniversary of Mahakavi Kalidasa, the Sangeet Natak Akademi, New Delhi, an autonomous body under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, successfully organized the National Theatre Festival 2026 under the theme “Bharat Speaks Through Theatre | Youth Theatre for National Awakening.” The event was conducted in collaboration with the Department of Education, Andaman & Nicobar Administration.
The festival witnessed a remarkable nationwide celebration of patriotism and cultural heritage, with theatrical performances being staged simultaneously today. across nearly 150 venues in all 28 States and 8 Union Territories of India. More than 150 plays, presented in over 39 languages and dialects by over 4,000 young theatre artists, reflected the spirit of national unity and showcased India’s rich theatrical traditions, including modern theatre, folk theatre, puppet theatre and other indigenous performance forms.
In the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, two compelling patriotic plays were staged by students from government schools before enthusiastic audiences.
At the Government Girls’ Senior Secondary School Auditorium, Sri Vijaya Puram, students of Government Girls’ Senior Secondary School, Sri Vijaya Puram presented the play “Kalapani – Cellular Jail ki Pukar”, directed by Shri Naba Kumar Dhar. The 20-minute production vividly portrayed the sacrifices, courage and resilience of the freedom fighters who endured imprisonment in the historic Cellular Jail, leaving the audience deeply moved. Speaking on the occasion, the Director (Education), Shri Aditya Sangotra spoke about the importance of Vande Mataram and its role during freedom struggle. He also urged the students to visit and understand the National Memorial Cellular Jail and its significance in the country’s freedom movement.
Similarly, at the Government Model Senior Secondary School Auditorium, Sri Vijaya Puram, students of Government Secondary School, Junglighat presented “Netaji – Azadi ka Jwalamukhi”, directed by Shri Arup Kumar Roy. The play highlighted the inspiring life, leadership and unwavering patriotism of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, earning widespread appreciation from the audience. Speaking on the occasion, DDE (Academics), Shri Gyan Sheel Dubey encouraged all the participants and budding talents, stating that patriotism is deeply rooted in children. Padma Shri Naresh Chandra Lal, General Council Member and Local Coordinator of Sangeet Natak Akademi was also present on the occasion
Both productions received an overwhelming response for their powerful performances, meaningful scripts, effective direction, music, stagecraft and the exceptional dedication of the young performers. Teachers, students, parents, theatre enthusiasts and members of the public attended the performances in large numbers and applauded the efforts of the participating schools.
The festival, held on the occasion of Mahakavi Kalidasa Jayanti, paid tribute not only to the timeless legacy of Vande Mataram but also to one of India’s greatest literary icons. By bringing together young directors and artists from diverse regions, languages and communities, the National Theatre Festival 2026 truly embodied its vision of “Youth Theatre for National Awakening.” It demonstrated how theatre can serve as a powerful medium to promote patriotism, preserve cultural heritage and inspire the younger generation.
The organizers expressed their gratitude to the participating schools, directors, teachers, students, the Department of Education, A&N Administration, and all supporters whose collective efforts ensured the grand success of this landmark national event. The festival stood as a fitting tribute to India’s freedom movement, its cultural diversity, and the enduring spirit of Vande Mataram.