The Bharat Rang Mahotsav 2026 is set to make history as the National School of Drama (NSD) prepares for the 25th edition of the world’s largest international theatre festival. Scheduled to run from January 27 to February 20, 2026, this year’s “Mahakumbh of Theatre” will expand to an unprecedented 40 locations across India and feature productions from every single continent on the planet. With 277 Indian plays and a focus on radical inclusivity, BRM 2026 is poised to redefine global cultural exchange.
Global Expansion: 7 Continents & 40 Indian Cities
The defining feature of Bharat Rang Mahotsav 2026 is its massive geographic footprint. For the first time, the festival will reach all seven continents, with at least one production representing each. Domestically, the festival will move beyond traditional hubs to 40 locations, including new centers in Ladakh, Lakshadweep, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Daman and Diu.
NSD Director Chittaranjan Tripathy noted that the festival’s presence in far-flung areas provides access to elite theatre in regions where such opportunities are historically limited.
Linguistic Diversity: 228 Languages and Dialects
In terms of linguistic scale, Bharat Rang Mahotsav 2026 is unparalleled. The festival will showcase performances in an extraordinary 228 languages and dialects.
- National Reach: Major Indian languages along with Maithili, Bhojpuri, Tulu, and Sanskrit.
- Tribal Voices: Endangered tongues such as Tai Khamti and Nyishi will be given a global platform.
- International Participation: 12 international productions alongside collaborations with the National Polish Theatre Academy and the Russian Institute of Theatre Arts (GITIS).
Radical Inclusivity: Transgender & Underrepresented Voices
NSD Vice Chairman Prof. Bharat Gupt described BRM 2026 as a milestone for the “democratisation of theatre.” For the first time, the festival’s official shortlist includes:
- Transgender Communities: Specialized productions highlighting their unique narratives.
- Sex Workers & Senior Citizens: Dedicated platforms for storytelling from marginalized age and social groups.
- Cancer Survivors: A unique performance written and performed by an NSD alumnus and cancer survivor will be a major emotional highlight.
Key Allied Festivals: Adirang to Jashne Bachpan
Bharat Rang Mahotsav 2026 is not just a single event but a collection of specialized festivals:
- Adirang Mahotsav: Dedicated to tribal theatre, dance, and crafts.
- Jashne Bachpan & Bal Sangam: Focusing on children’s theatre and folk traditions.
- Advitiya: Interactive sessions and Nukkad Natak (street theatre) led by the NSD Students’ Union.
- Theatre Bazaar: A segment to promote and award newly written plays.
Tributes and Historical Commemorations
The 25th edition will also serve as a tribute to Indian history and theatre stalwarts.
- Historical Figures: Commemorations of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, Lok Mata Ahilya Bai, and Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee.
- Theatre Stalwarts: Honors for Ratan Thiyam, Bansi Kaul, and a special seminar for the legendary Ebrahim Alkazi.
- Women in Theatre: A significant push for gender parity with 33 productions directed by women being showcased.
Conclusion: Democratising the World of Theatre
As the curtains rise on Bharat Rang Mahotsav 2026 this January, India will firmly establish itself as the global capital of theatrical arts. By bridging the gap between urban elitism and rural traditions, and by including voices from sex workers to international maestros, the NSD is ensuring that the 25th BRM is a truly universal celebration of the human spirit.