Archive · 13 Nov 2025
Bhopal Rangmandal Revival Stalls Months After MoU Signing
Imagine a famous theater group called Rangmandal in Bhopal that used to put on great shows but closed down a long time ago.
Recently, a deal was made to bring it back, with a special school called NSD helping.
However, even though the deal was signed a month ago, nothing has really happened yet.
People don't know exactly what the theater group will look like, who will be in charge, or how actors will be chosen.
They also need about 7 crore rupees each year to make it work, and that money hasn't been approved yet.
Some people think the outside help isn't needed and local artists could do the job themselves.
It's like planning a big party but not deciding on the food, guests, or decorations, and waiting for the money to show up before anything can start.
Months after signing an MoU, the revival of Bhopal's Rangmandal repertory remains stalled.
Key details such as the repertory's format, director appointment, and artiste selection are still unclear.
A proposed annual budget of approximately Rs 7 crore needs to be sanctioned before progress can be made.
Some local artists oppose the involvement of the National School of Drama (NSD), advocating for local talent to lead the revival.
The original Rangmandal, established in 1984 and known for acclaimed productions, was shut down in 1999.
- Who
- National School of Drama (NSD) and Bharat Bhavan
- What
- Stalled revival of Rangmandal, Bharat Bhavan's theatre repertory
- When
- Over a month after an MoU was signed on October 11
- Where
- Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh)
- Why
- Unclear format, director selection, artiste selection processes, and pending budget approval.
Supporters of NSD Involvement
Opponents of NSD Involvement
Role of National School of Drama (NSD)
Supporters of NSD Involvement
Discussions are underway with NSD to prepare the format and guide the process of appointing a director and selecting artistes. NSD will not control the repertory but will advise when needed.
Opponents of NSD Involvement
Some city artistes oppose NSD's involvement, believing local talent is sufficient to run the repertory. They feel the government rushed the MoU to avoid protests.
- MoU Signing Date
- October 11
- Original Rangmandal Establishment
- 1984
- Original Rangmandal Closure
- 1999
- Proposed Annual Budget
- Around Rs 7 crore
- Key Figures Present at MoU Signing
- Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav