Arunachal Pradesh Governor K.T. Parnaik says theatre and drama can help realise Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Viksit Bharat vision at the 25th Bharat Rang Mahotsav in Itanagar, highlighting culture’s role in unity, creativity, and inclusive development.
Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt. General K.T. Parnaik (Retd.) on Tuesday highlighted the transformative power of theatre and drama in shaping a progressive and inclusive India, stating that performing arts can significantly contribute to the realisation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a Viksit Bharat.
Addressing the audience at the grand finale of the 25th Bharat Rang Mahotsav, India’s premier International Theatre Festival, the Governor emphasised that theatre is not merely a form of entertainment but a potent medium for social awareness, national integration, and cultural expression. The closing ceremony was held at the Dorjee Khandu State Convention Centre in Itanagar, drawing participation from artists, administrators, and cultural leaders from across the country.
The Governor witnessed the final theatrical presentation titled ‘Nang Sipsong’, an evocative production that resonated deeply with the audience and provided a fitting conclusion to the five-day cultural celebration. He described the performance as emotionally compelling and reflective of society’s lived realities, noting that such productions help audiences introspect and connect with broader national values.
Lt. General Parnaik (Retd.) said that Bharat Rang Mahotsav stands as a powerful and inspiring platform that mirrors the nation’s aspirations and collective spirit. By transcending barriers of language, geography, and social background, the festival fosters unity and mutual understanding through shared cultural experiences. He observed that the festival reinforces the idea that art can serve as a bridge between diverse communities while nurturing a sense of belonging.
Highlighting the role of theatre in youth development, the Governor noted that such platforms provide invaluable opportunities for young and emerging artists to learn, experiment creatively, and gain meaningful exposure. He stressed that nurturing artistic talent is essential for a holistic model of development that values cultural growth alongside economic progress.
The Governor appealed to all stakeholders, including cultural institutions, educators, and policymakers, to actively promote the ideals of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat and the ethos of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas. He underlined that theatre can play a decisive role in strengthening unity in diversity and fostering social harmony, particularly in a culturally rich and geographically diverse state like Arunachal Pradesh.
Calling upon the National School of Drama (NSD) to expand its outreach initiatives, Lt. General Parnaik urged the institution to take theatre beyond urban centres and into remote villages across the state. He said that engaging rural and border communities through meaningful performances could encourage dialogue, cultural pride, and social cohesion.
Expressing optimism about the future of the festival, the Governor said that Bharat Rang Mahotsav should continue to spotlight the everyday challenges faced by common citizens and offer thoughtful perspectives and possible solutions through creative storytelling. He noted that theatre has the unique ability to humanise complex issues and inspire collective action.
The Governor also complimented Chittaranjan Tripathi, Director of the National School of Drama, and his entire team for their commitment and dedication in successfully organising the event. He acknowledged the collaborative efforts that made the festival a cultural milestone for the state.
State Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, State Minister for Art and Culture Dasanglu Pul, Chief Secretary Manish Gupta, and senior officials of the National School of Drama also addressed the gathering. They collectively underscored the importance of theatre in nurturing creativity, promoting dialogue, and strengthening cultural understanding in contemporary society.
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The five-day convergence of theatre and cultural expression commenced on January 30, 2026, and was organised by the National School of Drama, New Delhi, in collaboration with the Department of Art and Culture, Government of Arunachal Pradesh.
Providing details of the festival, NSD Assistant Professor Riken Ngomle informed that five theatrical productions were staged during the Mahotsav, involving hundreds of artists from Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, West Bengal, and Karnataka, reflecting the festival’s inclusive and pan-Indian character.
