Cultural voices from Shimla to Mandi unite to safeguard and promote Himachali performing arts
Munish Sood
MANDI: Amid growing concerns over the fading visibility of Himachal Pradesh’s rich performing arts traditions on the national and international stage, a strong demand is emerging from across the state to establish a Himachal Sangeet Natak Akademi.
While the call originated in Shimla, it is now gaining traction in Mandi, the cultural heart of Himachal. Noted theatre director and Sangeet Natak Akademi awardee Kedar Thakur has lent his voice to the movement, emphasising the urgent need for a dedicated state-level institution to nurture local art forms, document traditions, and support artists financially and institutionally.
Investment in culture amid financial constraints
Thakur argued that while the state is facing economic challenges, a Himachal Sangeet Natak Akademi would not be a financial burden — instead, it would ease the cultural expenses currently borne by the government. “This institution can emerge as a strong, economically self-sufficient partner alongside the Department of Language and Culture and institutions like the Gaiety Dramatic Society,” he said.
Describing theatre as more than just a stage, he called it “a living symbol of Himachal’s cultural consciousness.”
Why Himachal needs its own akademi
Himachal Pradesh boasts a legacy of vibrant performing traditions, ranging from folk theatre styles like Kariyala, Bhandara, Haran, Dhaja, Bhagat, Thoda, Harul, Khel and Swang to folk music and dance forms such as Kullavi Nati, Kinnauri folk dance and traditional Pahari singing.
However, no national or dedicated institutional effort has yet been made to preserve, document, and elevate these traditions. “This neglect is unfortunate,” Thakur said, adding that the absence of a regional cultural body continues to leave Himachali artistes without necessary support or visibility.
Aims of the proposed akademi
If established, the Himachal Sangeet Natak Akademi would serve several vital cultural functions:
• Documentation and research on Himachali performance traditions
• Annual state-level festivals, theatre workshops, and artist residencies
• Scholarships and fellowships for emerging talent
• Awards and honours for senior and young performing artistes
• Representation of Himachali culture on national and international platforms
Currently, Himachal has little to no presence at such levels. The movement is also being championed by grassroots theatre groups and cultural organisations. Seema Sharma, Secretary of the Satahul Natya Akademi and a long-time theatre activist, emphasised the need for a unified effort. “All writers, theatre practitioners, and artistes must raise their voice together—only then can a meaningful outcome be achieved,” she said.
Deep Kumar, Secretary of the Akaar Theatre Society, echoed these sentiments and highlighted the logistical hurdles faced by local artistes. “A local Akademi branch, especially in a central location like Mandi, would save artists from traveling repeatedly to Delhi for grants, fellowships, or recognition. It would also streamline access to government support and enable artists to focus on creation and innovation.”
