What Is Nandikar’s National Theatre Festival?
Inception & Legacy: Launched in 1984 as part of Nandikar’s silver jubilee, the festival quickly became an annual theatre landmark in Kolkata, held every 16–25 December at the Academy of Fine Arts. nandikar.netWikipedia
Purpose & Vision: It aims to foster cultural integration across India, serving as a creative forum where theatre artists exchange ideas and styles. nandikar.netWikipedia
What to Expect: Expect a rich mix of avant-garde and mainstream productions from theatre troupes nationwide—and sometimes from international participants from countries like the US, Sweden, Switzerland, Pakistan, Nepal, and Bangladesh. nandikar.net+1
Beyond Plays: The festival also features exhibitions and workshops, adding depth to the theatrical experience. nandikar.netbengalcalling.techshu.com
Festival Highlights & Noteworthy Editions
40th Edition (2023)
Happened from 16 to 25 December, spanning both the Academy of Fine Arts and Rabindra Sadan. Sangbad Pratidin
Opened with Chetana’s “Mareech Sangbad” (dir. Arun Mukhopadhyay), followed by performances like “Ravan Reloaded” (dir. Debasish Ray) and “Aajker Shahjahan” (dir. Suman Mukhopadhyay). Sangbad PratidinTelegraph India
Featured a range of standout productions including “Panchajanya,” “Ek Theke Baro,” “Manush,” “Madhabi,” and a Children’s Ensemble showcasing plays such as Lakshmaner Shaktishel, Alice in Wonderland, and Podipisir Bormibaksho. Sangbad PratidinTelegraph India
41st Edition (2024)
Held 20–25 December 2024 at the Academy of Fine Arts. nandikar.net
Festival kickoff: Aaro Ekta Lear (dir. Anjan Dutt); followed by plays like Manush, Madhabi, Ek Theke Baro, Panchajanya, a bilingual piece (English & Bengali), Rani Kadambini, and a robust Children’s Ensemble (Pakhi, Lullu, Perfect Prefect).
Concluded with Nabanna and repeated Panchajanya performances, some shows sold out. nandikar.net
What About 2025?
Official updates for the 2025 festival are not yet published—the official Nandikar site indicates that notifications are forthcoming. nandikar.net
Likely Schedule: If previous patterns hold, expect the edition to take place mid–late December (around 16–25 December 2025) at the Academy of Fine Arts in Kolkata. nandikar.netbengalcalling.techshu.com
Stay Updated: Keep an eye on Nandikar’s official website for announcements on:
Confirmed dates, schedule, and venue
Featured productions, workshops, and tickets
Online booking links and program details
Quick Summary
Would you like help tracking updates for 2025—like alerts when the program or tickets are announced—or information on how to attend or access live streams? I’d be happy to assist!
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| When | Mid–late December (16–25) annually |
| Where | Academy of Fine Arts, Kolkata |
| Who Organizes | Nandikar theatre group |
| Includes | National and international plays, workshops, exhibitions, children’s performances |
| 2025 Status | Awaiting official announcement |
