Bhartendu Natya Utsav 2025 concludes with three days of theatrical brilliance

New Delhi, March 19, 2025: The Bhartendu Natya Utsav 2025, presented by Sahitya Kala Parishad in association with the Government of NCT of Delhi, concluded on a grand note after three days of spellbinding performances that showcased the depth and diversity of Indian theatre. Held at LTG Auditorium, Mandi House, the festival brought together talented playwrights, directors, and performers, offering audiences a rich and immersive cultural experience.

The festival opened with the historical drama Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, written and directed by Varun Sharma. The play captured the extraordinary journey of Shivaji Maharaj, highlighting his military strategies, leadership, and unwavering commitment to Swarajya (self-rule). The audience was transported through pivotal moments in his life, such as the formation of the Maratha navy, his daring escape from Agra, and his masterful guerrilla warfare tactics. The production effectively portrayed Shivaji’s vision of justice, religious tolerance, and his deep connection with his people, leaving the audience inspired by his legacy. The intense performances, powerful dialogues, and authentic period setting made for a spectacular opening night, setting the stage for the days to come.

The second day of the festival focused on social themes and sharp political satire, offering audiences an insightful yet entertaining experience. The afternoon session featured Kanyadaan, a powerful social drama by Vijay Tendulkar, directed by Amool Sagar and performed by Black Pearl Arts. The play explored caste complexities, idealism, and the harsh realities of social change through the story of Nath Devalikar, a progressive politician who encourages his daughter Jyoti to marry Arun Athavale, a Dalit poet. However, idealism clashes with reality as Jyoti faces domestic struggles and Arun’s deep-seated resentment toward the upper caste. The play posed critical questions on whether personal sacrifices can truly drive social reform, leaving a profound impact on the audience. The evening session featured Rani Nagfani Ki Kahani, a satirical gem by Harishankar Parsai, directed by Surendra Sharma and performed by Rang Saptak. Using allegorical characters and sharp wit, the play humorously critiqued political corruption, social hypocrisy, and moral decay. With biting sarcasm and thought-provoking humor, it kept the audience entertained while sparking reflection, making for a compelling and engaging performance.

The final day of the festival was marked by two contrasting yet equally mesmerizing performances. The afternoon session featured Darjeeling Venom, an intense reimagination of Shakespeare’s Hamlet, written and directed by Divyanshu Kumar and performed by Kshitij Theatre Group. Set against the scenic yet turbulent backdrop of Darjeeling’s aristocratic elite, the play explored ambition, betrayal, power struggles, and revenge. As secrets unraveled and loyalties shifted, the protagonist faced a world of deceit and retribution. With gripping performances, atmospheric staging, and emotional depth, the production captivated the audience, making it a festival highlight. The festival concluded with Saiyyan Bhaye Kotwal, a Hindi adaptation of the Marathi folk play Vichha Majhi Puri Kara, written by Vasant Sabnis and translated by Usha Banerjee. Directed by Basab Bhattacharya and performed by the New Delhi Performers Cultural & Dramatic Society, the play offered a sharp satire on corruption and nepotism. Set in the Maharashtrian Tamasha format, it followed a corrupt prime minister appointing his inept brother-in-law as Kotwal, bypassing a deserving candidate. The wronged officer’s clever scheme to expose the injustice led to a series of comical, chaotic, and uproarious moments, making for a lively and entertaining festival finale.

Speaking about the festival, Minister Kapil Mishra expressed his admiration for the performances and the artists, stating, "Bhartendu Natya Utsav 2025 has been a resounding success, showcasing the sheer brilliance of Indian theatre. Over the past three days, we have witnessed a remarkable display of storytelling, creativity, and thought-provoking narratives that reflect our cultural richness. I commend all the playwrights, directors, and performers for bringing these incredible stories to life. It fills me with pride to see such exceptional talent thrive in our theatre community, and I hope this festival continues to inspire and uplift audiences for years to come.”

The Bhartendu Natya Utsav 2025 has once again reaffirmed Delhi’s position as a cultural hub for theatre, offering audiences a memorable journey through history, society, and human emotions. The festival’s success highlights the power of storytelling to inspire, challenge, and entertain, leaving theatre lovers eagerly awaiting the next edition.