Bihar is poised for a significant enhancement to its cultural landscape following the central government's approval for establishing a National School of Drama (NSD) campus within the state. Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary announced the decision on Tuesday, expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat for greenlighting the project.
State Government to Co-Fund and Provide Land
According to a statement from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), the Bihar government is committed to supporting the initiative. Chief Minister Choudhary affirmed that the state would take steps to provide suitable land for the campus and bear 50 percent of the approved construction costs. This financial commitment underscores Bihar's dedication to fostering its rich traditions in theatre and performing arts.
The new NSD Bihar campus is expected to complement existing state-backed institutions, such as the Bihar Sangeet Natak Akademi, by creating stronger opportunities for aspiring artists and theatre practitioners. This collaborative effort between the state and central governments aims to facilitate the campus's development and strengthen theatre education.
Investment in Cultural Heritage and Young Talent
Chief Minister Choudhary emphasized that the proposed NSD campus represents a strategic investment in Bihar’s cultural heritage, its young talent, and the future evolution of modern theatre. The institution will offer aspiring actors, directors, and theatre professionals access to specialized training and resources closer to home, potentially attracting greater national attention to Bihar's vibrant theatre ecosystem.
The Chief Minister expressed confidence that this partnership would significantly elevate Bihar's profile on India's national theatre map, nurturing a new generation of performing artists within the region.
NSD's Enduring Legacy
The National School of Drama, headquartered in Delhi, is one of India’s premier institutions dedicated to theatre training. Established in 1959 by the Sangeet Natak Akademi and later becoming an independent entity in 1975, the NSD has played a pivotal role in developing theatre professionals and promoting theatre education nationwide. The establishment of the NSD Bihar campus continues this legacy, extending its reach and impact.