NSD Commends Rich Tribal Heritage as Adi Rang Mahotsav 2025 Concludes
New Delhi, March 26th, 2025: Curtains fell on the seventh edition of National School of Drama’s Adi Rang Mahotsav (also known as Adirangam) on March 23, 2025 at the Open Lawn, National School of Drama (NSD) premises, New Delhi, after a spectacular three-day celebration. The ceremony was graced by Shri Shrivardhan Trivedi, a renowned actor and NSD alumnus, as the Chief Guest, and was chaired by Shri Chittaranjan Tripathy, Director of NSD. Shri Pradeep K Mohanty, Registrar of NSD, delivered the Welcome Address, while Shri Suman Vaidya, Festival Controller of NSD, concluded the evening with a Vote of Thanks.
Shri Chittaranjan Tripathy, Director, National School of Drama, shared his thoughts on the festival: “Adi Rang Mahotsav was always intended to shine a spotlight on the beautiful and diverse tribal cultures of India, which have too long been overlooked by mainstream art and cultural circles. Through this festival, we aimed to offer a dedicated platform for these communities to share their immense talent and unique contributions to our nation’s rich cultural heritage. The response from the audience has been overwhelming, and we are proud to have opened a new chapter in recognizing the integral role of tribal art and traditions in India’s cultural narrative.”
Bridging the gap between India’s rich tribal cultural practices and the media-driven mainstream, hundreds of indigenous artists brought their deep-rooted culture to life on a grand stage, fulfilling the festival’s objective. Through a vibrant mix of performances, including tribal dances, music, and theatre, the festival brought to light a side of India’s heritage that has often been overlooked. In addition, The Craft Mela showcased exceptional craftsmanship and unique creations such as wire art, brass metal Bhareva art, Assam handloom, Kantha work, wooden crafts, natural fragrances, Madhubani paintings, crochet lace, Ikat handloom, papier-mâché, clay dolls, Godhri handloom, coconut shell products, copper bells, and bamboo crafts.
Moreover, attendees of the festival got a sneak peek into the unique Santhali heritage through a photography exhibition, and a display of musical instruments and artifacts by researcher Dr. Partha Gupta.
Featuring nearly 300 diverse tribal performing artists from rural India, a list of forms and participating groups is as follows: ‘Rabha’ by Sanskriti Group from Dibrugarh, Assam; ‘Bardwi Sikhla’ / ‘Dahal Thungri’ forms from the North East Cultural Academy, Tinsukia, Assam; Folk & Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh with ‘Juju Jaja’ / ‘Rikham Pada’ dances; Alana Dance Academy from Andhra Pradesh performed the ‘Gussadi’; Siddi Goma Dance Academy from Bharuch, Gujarat, brought ‘Siddi Dhamal’; Ranagarh, Ta Limbdi, Surendra Nagar, Gujarat, presented the ‘Padhaar’ dance; Ashok Kachhap and his group from Jharkhand performed the ‘Paika’ dance; Akhra Kolhan Kala Kendra from West Singhbhum, Jharkhand, showcased the ‘Shikari’ dance; ‘Gudum Baja’ dance by Lekhapal Dhurve from Dindori, Madhya Pradesh; ‘Chakri’ dance by Mamta Devi from Baran, Rajasthan; Kuyingpong Culture Society from Nagaland presented a War Dance; Pratima and her group from Koraput, Odisha performed the ‘Durua’; Singari’ dance by Dhyana Nanda Panda & Group from Kalahandi, Odisha; ‘Sangrai Mog’ performance by Thailow Mog from South Tripura; and ‘Natua’ Dance by Biren Kalindi from Purulia, West Bengal.
Aadi Rang Mahotsav 2025 is a testimony of National School of Drama’s commitment to hosting events that are unique, accessible, and meaningful. The festival epitomised the essence of tribals as vital and passionate contributors to India’s cultural fabric. With majestic dance performances, iconic handicrafts, and soulful music, the festival unveiled the rich depth of tribal existence, history, and artistry. The National School of Drama thanks its audiences, patrons, and collaborators for helping make this event a grand success.