Panjab University’s Department of Indian Theatre Celebrates World Theatre Day with Enthusiasm

Chandigarh, March 27, 2026: The Department of Indian Theatre, Panjab University, Chandigarh, today celebrated World Theatre Day in the Studio Theatre with great enthusiasm and participation from faculty, students, alumni, and distinguished guests.
The celebration featured a vibrant musical theatre production of Sohni Mahiwal, collaboratively performed by students and faculty members. Designed and directed by Dr. Nardeep Kaur, written by Ekam Mannuke, with music by Dr. Tejinder Singh, the production presented a nuanced synthesis of performance, music, and narrative expression. It was widely appreciated for its aesthetic sophistication, cohesive ensemble work, and emotionally resonant storytelling.
Marking a continuing tradition, Natya Griham, which annually confers scholarships on the occasion of World Theatre Day, awarded the S. Charanjit Singh Memorial Scholarship to six students. This initiative aims to motivate and inspire theatre students while recognising their commitment to both practice and academic excellence.
A significant highlight of the event was the presence of former faculty members and a large number of alumni of the department including Padma Shri Dr. Neelam Mansingh Chaudhary (Professor Emeritus) and Mr. Umesh Kant, a student of the first batch. The alumni participated enthusiastically in the celebration, fondly revisiting shared memories while also creating new ones, thereby reinforcing a strong sense of belonging and continuity within the department’s artistic community.
Earlier, the programme commenced with a solemn remembrance of the department’s founder, Padma Shri Balwant Gargi, acknowledging his seminal contribution to Indian theatre and his enduring legacy in shaping the department.
The event also included an academic seminar on Sohni Mahiwal. Research scholar Nayeem Raj, an international student of M.A. (2nd Year), presented a research paper based on the play Sohni Mahiwal, designed and directed by Dr. Navdeep Kaur. The presentation was widely appreciated for its originality, clarity, and critical engagement.
Reflecting on his experience, Nayeem Raj stated:
“Working on this production as a research subject allowed me to closely observe the creative process and understand how performance evolves through direction, design, and collaborative practice.”
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Navdeep Kaur, who appreciated both the performance and the academic engagement. She stated:
“The programme exemplifies how theatre can function as a dynamic space where practice and research meaningfully inform one another. It is encouraging to witness such thoughtful and rigorous work emerging from the department.”
The celebration concluded with an engaging interaction session, embodying the spirit of World Theatre Day—collaboration, creativity, and cultural dialogue.