Odisha takes a step forward in theatre arts with new NSD outreach centre

Bhubaneswar, Nov 1: The Odisha government has officially approved the establishment of an outreach center for the National School of Drama (NSD) in Bhubaneswar. Initially, the center will operate temporarily from the Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra Odissi Research Centre in the city.

This initiative marks a significant milestone for Odisha, providing an invaluable opportunity for students interested in pursuing careers in theatre and acting, according to Odisha's Minister for Odia Language, Literature, and Culture, Suryabanshi Suraj. He highlighted that the NSD outreach center in Bhubaneswar will be instrumental in promoting Odia theatre, ensuring that regional narratives and traditional dramas gain national and international recognition.

The decision to set up the NSD outreach center was made following discussions between Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Culture Minister Suraj. Minister Suraj emphasized the importance of Odia theatre, stating, “Odisha's rich history, literature, art, and culture have been conveyed through the art of drama, telling the region’s stories for generations. This center will act as a catalyst for the growth of Odia theatre productions."

The outreach center aims to provide high-quality training, enabling students to represent Odisha on both national and international stages through theatrical performances. Established in 1959 in Delhi, the NSD has operated as an autonomous body under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, since 1975. Currently, the renowned actor Paresh Rawal serves as its Chairperson, while distinguished Odia actor Chittaranjan Tripathy holds the position of Director. Notable alumni from Odisha include prominent actors such as Bijay Mohanty, Ajit Das, and Surya Mohanty.

With the establishment of the NSD outreach center in Odisha, there is a clear vision to promote and celebrate the state's rich cultural heritage, particularly its vibrant theatre tradition.