The National School of Drama (NSD) in New Delhi is one of the leading theatre training institutions in the world. It was set up in 1959 by the Sangeet Natak Akademi and became an autonomous organisation in 1975. It is funded by the Ministry of Culture.
History
In its early years, NSD was shaped by Ebrahim Alkazi, who served as its director from 1962 to 1977. He introduced rigorous training in acting, direction and stagecraft, and staged landmark productions. Later directors continued to build its reputation.
Famous alumni
NSD has trained many actors who went on to become stars of theatre, film and television. Well known alumni include Naseeruddin Shah, Om Puri, Pankaj Kapur, Anupam Kher, Irrfan Khan, Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Pankaj Tripathi, along with many directors and designers.
The course
The main programme is a three year diploma in dramatic arts. Students train in acting, voice and speech, movement, direction, design, Indian and Western theatre history and stagecraft. In the final year, students specialise in areas such as acting, direction or design.
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Admission basics
- Admission is usually announced once a year on the NSD website.
- Applicants generally need a graduate degree and prior experience in theatre productions, as per the notice.
- Selection includes preliminary auditions or workshops in different cities, followed by a final workshop in Delhi.
- Students may receive a scholarship as per NSD rules.
Check the official notice for eligibility, age limits and dates, since rules can change.
Life at NSD
Students spend long hours in classes, rehearsals and productions. They work on plays in many Indian languages and styles, from classical Sanskrit drama to folk forms and modern Western plays, and also learn backstage skills such as lighting, sets and costumes.
Bharat Rang Mahotsav
NSD organises the Bharat Rang Mahotsav, India’s international theatre festival, first held in 1999. It brings productions from across India and abroad. Dates are announced by NSD each year.
Other activities
- Theatre in Education Company (Sanskaar Rang Toli), which performs for children.
- Repertory Company, a professional wing of NSD.
- Regional centres in places such as Bengaluru, Varanasi, Agartala, Gangtok and Sikkim, which offer training and workshops.
- Short workshops for schools and communities.
Bottom line
The National School of Drama has shaped Indian theatre and cinema for decades. Aspiring actors can apply through its yearly admission process, while audiences can enjoy its productions and the Bharat Rang Mahotsav.
Source / स्रोत: National School of Drama, Ministry of Culture
