The Department of Odia, School of Comparative Languages and Literatures (SCTLL), KISS Deemed to be University, in collaboration with the Centre for Folklore Studies, KISS Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, organized an academic symposium to commemorate World Theatre Day (ବିସ୍ଵ ନାଟ୍ୟ ଦିବସ) on March 27, 2025. The event, convened at 12 PM in Room No. 204, New Academic Building, KISS Campus 4, aimed to critically engage with the pedagogical, cultural, and performative dimensions of theatre studies within an Odia and global context.
The proceedings commenced with a Welcome Address by Dr. Rasmita Tripathy, Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Odia, as well as the Centre Head of the Centre for Folklore Studies. Dr. Tripathy delineated the role of theatre as a socio-cultural artifact and an instrument of epistemological inquiry, emphasizing its function as a repository of indigenous knowledge and performative heritage. Following this, Dr. Chittaranjan Bhoi, Associate Professor and Dean, School of SCTLL, provided a nuanced exposition on the historical and contemporary relevance of World Theatre Day. His address underscored the integral position of theatre in Odisha’s cultural fabric and its evolving role in fostering critical discourse, narrative agency, and socio-political engagement.
A central feature of the observance was the theatrical presentation titled “ଲକ୍ଷ୍ମୀର କାହାଣୀ – The Story of Laxmi” performed by the postgraduate students (1st and 2nd Year) of Odia Department. The play was an exemplar of traditional Odia dramaturgy, effectively interweaving folkloric motifs with modern theatrical conventions. The performance was lauded for its narrative coherence, aesthetic sophistication, and its invocation of indigenous performative methodologies.
The event concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Mr. Jugsan Naik, Ph.D. Scholar, Department of Odia, who expressed appreciation to all contributors, including faculty members, students, and organizational coordinators, for their intellectual and creative engagement.
The symposium was meticulously curated and orchestrated by Dr. Nibedita Mohanty, Associate Professor, Department of Odia, KISS Deemed to be University. Her adept coordination ensured an academically rigorous and culturally enriching observance of World Theatre Day, reinforcing the significance of theatre as an enduring and transformative medium of intellectual and artistic inquiry.
The World Theatre Day 2025 was celebrated at Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) Deemed to be University with great enthusiasm. The event was organized by the Department of Performing Arts under the School of Culture and Eco-Spirituality. As part of the celebrations, a play was staged, conceptualized and directed by Basudev Soren and Bhagirti Singh Sardar.
KISS students presented a variety of cultural programs and theatrical performances, showcasing their artistic talents. The event was graced by the presence of Prof. Debashish Bandopadhyay, Vice-Chancellor of KISS, along with eminent film director Shri Himanshu Shekhar Khatua, Dr. Prashant Routray, and renowned actress Tripura Mishra.
The powerful performances by the students captivated the audience, leaving a lasting impression. The distinguished guests emphasized the significance of World Theatre Day and discussed the profound impact of theatre on daily life. National Award-winning filmmaker Himanshu Shekhar Khatua highlighted how KISS and KIIT, under the visionary leadership of their founder, have successfully integrated tribal children into the mainstream through education and cultural empowerment. He emphasized that events like this ensure the preservation and continuation of theatre for future generations.
Additionally, renowned Mardal player Jagannath Kanar educated the students about ancient musical instruments and elaborated on the intricate connection between music and acting.
The celebration of World Theatre Day at KISS Deemed to be University was a remarkable success, reinforcing the importance of performing arts in education and cultural preservation.
