From Mandi House to Bollywood: The Legacy of NSD Alumni!
The National School of Drama (NSD) is widely regarded
as the "Mecca" of Indian theatre. Established in 1959, this premier
institution has been the nurturing ground for some of the most iconic talents
in Indian cinema and stage, including Naseeruddin Shah, Om Puri, Irrfan
Khan, and Pankaj Tripathi.
As of February 2026, NSD continues to be an
autonomous body under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India,
maintaining its reputation for rigorous training and artistic excellence.
A Brief History of NSD
- Inception
(1959): The school was founded as a constituent unit of the Sangeet
Natak Akademi (India's national academy of music, dance, and drama). Its
origins trace back to a 1954 seminar where the idea of a central theatre
institution was first mooted.
- Asian
Theatre Institute (ATI): In 1958, the Asian Theatre Institute was
merged with the school, which was initially named the "National
School of Drama and Asian Theatre Institute."
- Autonomy
(1975): The school became an independent entity in 1975 and moved to
its current iconic location at Bahawalpur House, Mandi House, New
Delhi.
- The
Alkazi Era: Under director Ebrahim Alkazi (1962–1977), the
school underwent a massive transformation in its syllabus and
infrastructure, creating the legendary open-air theatres (Meghdoot) that
are still used today.
Admission Process 2026: How to Get In
Admission to NSD is one of the most competitive in the
country, with only 26 to 32 seats available annually.
Eligibility Criteria
- Education:
A Bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
- Theatre
Experience: Candidates must have participated in at least 6 theatre
productions.
- Age
Limit: Generally between 18 to 30 years (Relaxation for
SC/ST/OBC as per government norms).
- Recommendation:
A letter of recommendation from at least one theatre expert.
Selection Stages
- Stage
1: Preliminary Test: A written exam and an audition conducted in
various cities (Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, etc.). This tests
general knowledge, art, culture, and basic acting aptitude.
- Stage
2: Final Workshop: Shortlisted candidates are invited to the Delhi
campus for a 5-day residential workshop. Here, faculty members
observe candidates’ stamina, creativity, and ability to work in a group.
The 3-Year Diploma in Dramatic Arts
The flagship course at NSD is a full-time residential
program. It is designed to provide a 360-degree understanding of theatre.
|
Year |
Focus Area |
|
First Year |
Integrated course covering basics of acting, design, and
theatre history. |
|
Second Year |
Advanced training in Indian and Western dramatic
traditions. |
|
Third Year |
Specialization in either Acting or Theatre
Techniques & Design. |
Performing Wings
- The
Repertory Company: Established in 1964, it allows graduates to perform
professionally.
- Sanskaar
Rang Toli: Also known as the Theatre-in-Education (T.I.E.) company,
it focuses on children's theatre and personality development through
drama.
The Pillars of Excellence: Notable Alumni
The impact of NSD on Indian pop culture is undeniable. Its
alumni have won numerous National Awards and international acclaim.
- The
Legends: Naseeruddin Shah, Om Puri, Rohini Hattangadi, Anupam Kher.
- The
Modern Icons: Irrfan Khan, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Pankaj Tripathi, Manoj Bajpayee (NSD Reject, but trained under alumni), Piyush Mishra.
- Contemporary
Stars: Neena Gupta, Ratna Pathak Shah, Yashpal Sharma, Mukesh Tiwari.
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