Image Source: The News Mill
At the 13th edition of the Jagran Film Festival held in New Delhi this week, acclaimed actor Manoj Bajpayee took center stage—not as a performer, but as a passionate advocate for the transformative power of theatre education. In a heartfelt conversation, Bajpayee shared his personal journey through the National School of Drama (NSD), offering rare insights into the institution’s legacy, its evolving challenges, and its enduring role in shaping India’s performing arts landscape.
Key Moments From The Festival Dialogue
The Jagran Film Festival, known for blending cinematic celebration with cultural discourse, provided a platform for Bajpayee to speak candidly about NSD’s impact on his life and career. His reflections were not just nostalgic—they were a call to action for preserving and revitalizing India’s premier theatre school.
• Bajpayee emphasized the importance of practical learning over theoretical knowledge
• He described NSD as a space where students learn from both instructors and peers
• The actor highlighted the role of criticism as a tool for growth, not discouragement
• He called for more NSD-like institutions to be established across India
Learning By Doing: The NSD Philosophy
Bajpayee’s core message revolved around the idea that theatre education must be rooted in action. He stressed that knowing is not enough—doing it right is what truly matters. This philosophy, he explained, is what sets NSD apart from other institutions.
1. Students are encouraged to participate actively in productions and workshops
2. Peer-to-peer learning is central to the NSD experience
3. Guest lecturers and directors bring diverse perspectives to the classroom
4. Critique is used constructively to push students toward excellence
He described NSD as a living, breathing ecosystem where every rehearsal, every mistake, and every performance contributes to a student’s evolution.
Challenges Facing NSD Today
While celebrating NSD’s legacy, Bajpayee also addressed the pressing concerns that threaten its vitality. He noted that many young graduates feel they aren’t receiving the same depth of training as earlier generations.
• A shortage of dedicated faculty has impacted the quality of mentorship
• Existing teachers are often overburdened, limiting their availability to students
• Administrative constraints have slowed the expansion of NSD’s reach
Bajpayee urged stakeholders to invest in new branches and satellite campuses, ensuring that aspiring theatre artists across India have access to rigorous training.
Students At The Heart Of The Institution
Throughout his address, Bajpayee returned to one central theme: students are the soul of NSD. He praised their passion, resilience, and hunger to learn, calling them the future torchbearers of Indian theatre and cinema.
• The institution thrives when students are given space to experiment and fail
• Collaborative learning fosters empathy and artistic depth
• Alumni networks play a key role in mentoring and supporting new entrants
He also acknowledged the role of contract administrators and guest teachers, noting that their support is crucial but must be complemented by full-time faculty engagement.
A Festival That Honors Craft And Conversation
The Jagran Film Festival’s Delhi chapter was more than a showcase of films—it was a celebration of storytelling in all its forms. Bajpayee’s session stood out for its emotional depth and intellectual honesty, reminding audiences that behind every great performance lies years of disciplined training and introspection.
• The festival featured premieres of films like Inspector Zende, starring Bajpayee himself
• Interactive sessions allowed audiences to engage directly with artists and creators
• Cultural exchange and mentorship were key themes throughout the event
Conclusion: Reimagining Theatre Education For Tomorrow
Manoj Bajpayee’s reflections at the Jagran Film Festival were a powerful reminder that institutions like NSD are not just schools—they are sanctuaries for artistic growth. As India’s entertainment industry continues to evolve, the need for robust, inclusive, and practical theatre education becomes more urgent. Bajpayee’s call to action invites educators, policymakers, and artists to come together and ensure that the next generation of performers has the tools, space, and support to thrive.
Sources: UNI India, Herzindagi, MSN India
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