The National School of Drama (NSD) is hosting the 7th edition of Aadi Rang Mahotsav 2025 from March 21 to 23. This festival is a grand celebration of the art, culture, and heritage of India’s tribal communities, offering a rare and enriching experience of indigenous traditions.
Aadi Rang Mahotsav is a vibrant confluence of theatre, music, dance, seminars, and crafts, providing a unique platform to showcase the artistic, cultural, and spiritual heritage that tribal societies have preserved for centuries. The festival will bring together around 300 tribal artists, who will present their timeless creations and unique craftsmanship.
This year, the festival is featuring 15 dance and music performances from 13 states, along with tribal handicrafts from 11 states.
A major attraction of the festival is the two spectacular theatre performances. ‘Bir Birsa’ from Jharkhand pays tribute to the legacy of tribal hero Birsa Munda, while ‘Bana Guda’ from Odisha presents a magical depiction of courage and folklore, reflecting the vibrancy of tribal culture.
The festival is also showcasing dance, music, and craftsmanship from various states. Raba dance and Assamese handicrafts from Assam, Gussaadi dance and leather puppets from Andhra Pradesh, Juju Jaja and Rikam Pada dance from Arunachal Pradesh, Siddi Dhamal and Padhar dance from Gujarat; besides, Gujarat will present its patchwork, copper bells, and beadwork.
Kinnuri Naat dance from Himachal Pradesh, traditional Paika, Mardani, and Jhomra performances from Jharkhand, Gudum Baja and traditional herbal Tulsi products, bell metal Bhareva art from Madhya Pradesh, as well as papier-mâché and sand crafts will be on display. Songi Mask Dance and wire craft workmanship from Maharashtra, Chakri Dance and leather footwear from Rajasthan, War Dance from Nagaland, Durua and Singri Dance from Odisha, Sangrai Mog Dance from Tripura, and Natua Dance from West Bengal, along with traditional Bengal boutique jewellery, clay dolls, and Santhal ritual artefacts.
Ekat sarees from Telangana and horn-and-bone craft from Uttar Pradesh will be on display.
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Chittaranjan Tripathi, Director, NSD, said, “Aadi Rang Mahotsav is not just a celebration of art and culture; it is an opportunity to showcase the deep connection between India’s tribal communities and nature.”
“Through this festival, we are trying to bring these unique traditions to the fore so that people can understand and appreciate them. This is an important step towards bringing the tribal heritage to the world and preserving it for future generations.”
Masterclasses and national seminars will also be organised during the festival, where experts will provide in-depth information on tribal art, culture, and theatre to better understand the rich heritage of these traditions.
