Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi attended the valedictory session of an acting workshop jointly organised by dance institution Spirija and the National School of Drama (NSD) at Keonjhar District Auditorium today, where he announced the establishment of an NSD regional centre in Keonjhar with full financial and infrastructural support from the state government.
Speaking as the chief guest, Majhi described art and culture as the “soul of any society,” reflecting collective thoughts, struggles, aspirations and dreams. He emphasised that theatre is not merely entertainment but a powerful medium that educates, raises questions, creates awareness and emotionally connects audiences to societal issues.
“Theatre teaches empathy, discipline, teamwork and self-expression,” the Chief Minister said, praising NSD’s historic role in nurturing generations of theatre artists and strengthening Indian dramaturgy.
Highlighting Keonjhar’s rich natural and cultural heritage — from folk music and dance to storytelling traditions — Majhi said the arrival of an NSD centre would bridge traditional and contemporary art forms and provide new opportunities for local talent.
He reiterated the state government’s commitment to promoting art and culture, noting the recent increase in artists’ allowances and ongoing efforts to support young talent, preserve traditional forms and create new platforms for creative expression. “We want our youth to dream big while staying rooted in their heritage,” he added.
Invoking Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Vikas bhi, Virasat bhi” (development along with heritage), Majhi underlined the government’s focus on both progress and the preservation and promotion of the Odia language, culture and traditions.
The Chief Minister also spoke about Odisha’s vibrant folk and classical performing arts, including Odissi and Chhau dances, tribal cultural traditions, and unique theatre forms such as Ganjam’s Bharat Leela, Danda Nata (also known as Jhamu Yatra) and Mayurbhanj’s world-famous Chhau.
The event was attended by Member of Parliament Ananta Nayak, Karanjia MLA Padma Charan Haiburu, Telkoi MLA Dr Fakir Mohan Naik, Keonjhar District Collector Vishal Singh, NSD Registrar Pradeep Mohanty, Spirija founder Pragatika Mohanty and other dignitaries.
