23rd Natsamrat Natya Utsav Showcases Diverse Theatrical Performances in Delhi
The 23rd Natsamrat Natya Utsav, held at the LTG Auditorium in Mandi House from 28 February to 8 March 2026, concluded successfully after several days of engaging theatrical performances. Featuring a variety of plays with diverse themes and styles, the festival offered theatre lovers in the capital a vibrant and enriching cultural experience. The entire festival was dedicated to veteran theatre personality Daya Prakash Sinha. Organized under the direction and coordination of Shyam Kumar, director of the Natsamrat institution, the festival was appreciated for its well-curated presentations and disciplined execution.
The festival began on 28 February 2026 with two plays. The opening production was “Marilyn Monroe: My Crush”, written and directed by Ashraf Ali, which explored the emotional struggles and inner life of the legendary Hollywood icon behind her glamorous public image. Through a sensitive narrative and expressive performances, the play attempted to reveal the complex reality hidden behind the myth of celebrity. On the same day, the comedy “Chuhedani”, written and directed by Ishwar Shunya, was staged. Using satire and humorous situations, the play highlighted the ironies and contradictions of middle-class life. The actors maintained a lively rhythm on stage, and the sharp dialogues created several engaging moments for the audience.
The next set of performances took place on 4 March 2026, featuring Anton Chekhov’s famous one-act comedy “The Proposal”, directed by Shyam Kumar. Beginning with a simple marriage proposal that gradually turns into an amusing dispute over trivial matters, the play humorously exposes the eccentricities of human behavior. The performers’ energetic acting and well-timed delivery kept the audience entertained throughout. The evening also included “Kallu Nai M.B.B.S.”, a satirical play inspired by Moliere’s work and directed by Shyam Kumar. Through exaggerated characters and witty situations, the play offered a humorous commentary on social beliefs and everyday absurdities. Its lively staging and comic energy made it one of the entertaining highlights of the festival.
On 7 March 2026, the audience witnessed two engaging productions with contrasting emotional tones. The first was “Laajo”, adapted from Rajendra Singh Bedi’s renowned story Lajwanti, with theatrical adaptation and direction by Chander Shekher Sharma. The play presented a poignant reflection on the trauma of the Partition and the suffering endured by women during that period. The sensitive performances and restrained direction created a deeply moving atmosphere. The second presentation of the evening was the comedy “Prem Parinde”, written, conceptualized, and directed by Chander Shekher Sharma. With its light-hearted treatment of modern relationships, youth aspirations, and the influence of social media, the play offered moments of humor and relatability. The natural performances and lively comic timing were well received by the audience.
The festival concluded on 8 March 2026 with two impactful productions—“Dayashankar Ki Diary”, written by Nadira Zaheer Babbar, and “Gadhe Ki Baraat”, written by Haribhai Wadgaonkar. Both plays were directed by Vishav Deepak Trikha. Blending humor, satire, and social commentary, the performances created an engaging theatrical experience and brought the festival to a memorable close.
The 23rd Natsamrat Natya Utsav also served as a vibrant platform celebrating the richness and diversity of theatre. By presenting plays ranging from satire and comedy to emotionally intense narratives, the festival highlighted the versatility of contemporary stage productions. It provided an opportunity for theatre practitioners and audiences to come together and engage with meaningful storytelling through performance.
Over the years, the Natsamrat Natya Utsav has gradually established itself as an important cultural event in Delhi’s theatre circuit. Through consistent efforts and carefully curated performances, the festival continues to encourage theatrical creativity and nurture a deeper appreciation for the performing arts among audiences. Under the leadership of Shyam Kumar, the festival has maintained a strong commitment to promoting quality theatre and providing a platform for artists to present diverse dramatic works.
With its diverse repertoire, strong directorial visions, and committed performances by the artists, the 23rd Natsamrat Natya Utsav once again reaffirmed the enduring appeal and cultural significance of live theatre in the capital city.
