Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Appreciates NSD Repertory’s Latest Production ‘Anand Math’
Kevadiya, Gujarat, 30 October 2026: The National School of Drama (NSD) Repertory Company presented its newest large-scale theatrical production, Anand Math, on 30 October 2026 at the open-air auditorium near the Statue of Unity in Kevadiya, Gujarat, on the occasion of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day). The Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, witnessed the performance and appreciated the production. Based on the celebrated novel of the same name by renowned Bengali novelist Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, the play features a dramatic adaptation by Shri Asif Ali Haider, while its dramatisation, music, design and direction are by Shri Chittaranjan Tripathy, Director, NSD.
This large-scale theatrical production brought together nearly 300 participants, including actors, fine arts practitioners, designers, craftsmen and folk artists, whose collective efforts contributed to its elaborate stagecraft and compelling theatrical presentation.
Published in 1882, Anand Math is a landmark work of Indian literature, set against the historical backdrop of the Sannyasi Rebellion of the eighteenth century. The novel explores patriotism, sacrifice and devotion to the motherland through the struggle of ascetics committed to a larger national cause.
The novel is intrinsically associated with Vande Mataram, the iconic song that became an enduring source of inspiration during India’s freedom movement. As the nation commemorates 150 years of Vande Mataram, beginning on 7 November 2025, the production stands as a theatrical tribute to the freedom fighters whose courage, patriotism and sacrifice shaped India’s struggle for independence.
The adaptation brings this significant literary work to life through powerful performances, evocative music, rhythmic movements and meticulously crafted stagecraft. It explores themes of courage, discipline, sacrifice and collective responsibility, connecting audiences with India’s historical and literary heritage.
The scenic design in the play is by Shri Rajesh Singh, Chief of Repertory, NSD, while the lighting design is by Shri Gyandev Singh. The properties have been designed by Shri Arun Kumar Mallik.
Renowned Chhau dancer and Padma Shri awardee Guru Shashadhar Acharya has choreographed the production, while Abdul Rashid Mehta, a noted action director from the Indian film industry, has directed the fight sequences. Shri Santosh Singh is the Music Programmer and Background Composer, while Shri Raghavendra Tiwari is the Associate Director of the production.
The music, composed by Shri Chittaranjan Tripathy, with lyrics penned by him, draws inspiration from the Bhakti movement and Jayadeva’s Gita Govinda, enriching the production’s emotional and spiritual depth. The lyrics also features a stanza from Jagannath Ashtakam, written by Adi Shankaracharya.
The theatrical presentation of Anand Math marks another milestone in the performance history of the NSD Repertory Company, which has had the distinction of having its productions witnessed and appreciated by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India. This includes the Repertory’s theatrical production presented in 2025 on the occasion of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas at Kevadiya, Gujarat.
