Nandikar's National Theatre Festival
A Stage for India's Finest Theatrical Productions
Experience the power and diversity of Indian theatre at Nandikar's National Theatre Festival, one of the country's oldest and most prestigious theatre events, held annually in Kolkata.
Mid-December
Dec 16-25 (approx)
Daily performances and seminars
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When
Mid-December
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Where
Academy of Fine Arts Kolkata
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What
Plays from across India Workshops, Exhibitions
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Tickets
Available online and at the venue
About the Festival
A Celebration of Theatrical Craft
Hosted by the renowned Kolkata-based theatre group Nandikar, this annual festival is a celebration of the richness and diversity of theatre in India. For over ten days, the city's premier stage, the Academy of Fine Arts, comes alive with plays in various languages and forms.
The festival curates an excellent selection of productions from leading theatre groups across the country, showcasing everything from traditional folk forms to contemporary experimental plays. It serves as a vital platform for cultural exchange and dialogue among theatre practitioners and lovers.
Festival Highlights
What to Experience
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Pan-Indian Showcase
Watch plays in Hindi, Marathi, Kannada, Manipuri, and other Indian languages, with English summaries often provided.
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Meet the Artists
Post-performance interactive sessions with the directors and actors are a key feature.
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Theatre Workshops
Intensive workshops on acting, direction, and other aspects of theatre craft are often held.
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Exhibitions
Exhibitions of theatre posters, costumes, and set designs from Nandikar's archives.
Festival Schedule
A Theatrical Feast
Evenings
Evenings
Stage Performances
A different play is staged each evening, usually starting around 6:30 PM.
Mornings/Afternoons
Mornings/Afternoons
Seminars & Workshops
Discussions on theatrical topics and hands-on workshops for aspiring artists.
The Venue
The Hub of the Festival
Academy of Fine Arts
Central Kolkata
One of Kolkata's most historic and prestigious proscenium stages, located in the heart of the cultural district.
Cultural Aspects
More than Just Plays
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Post-Show Adda
Festival Foods
Intermission Snacks
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Coffee/Tea
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Samosas
📋 Quick Planning Guide
- Event DatesMid-December
- LocationAcademy of Fine Arts, Kolkata
- TicketsPurchase in advance for popular plays
🚌 Transportation Guide
- Metro RailMaidan or Rabindra Sadan stations are nearby.
- Buses & TaxisEasily accessible from all parts of the city.
💡 Essential Tips
- Follow Nandikar's social media for the final schedule and ticket announcements.
- Tickets for plays by well-known directors or groups sell out quickly.
- Arrive at least 20 minutes before the show starts to find your seat.
- Even if you don't know the language, the performances are often visually powerful enough to be understood.