New Delhi, October 25, 2026: A symposium on performing arts was organised on Sunday at Kala Sankul, the central office of Sanskar Bharati, with the objective of exploring the relationship between Indian art, culture, and social consciousness. The symposium focused on the Indian perspective on street theatre, its close connection with society, and its role in promoting public awareness.

The programme featured Dr. Vinod Narayan Indurkar, Chairman, CCRT, as the chief guest and speaker. He shared his perspectives on the social relevance of art and its place within the Indian cultural ethos. The discussion highlighted the longstanding tradition of artistic expression as a means not merely of entertainment, but also of engaging with society, awakening public consciousness, and encouraging meaningful dialogue.

A major highlight of the symposium was the presentation of ‘Athanni’, a street play staged by Pratidhwani Theatre Society. The performance drew attention to pressing social challenges, including human trafficking and substance abuse among children. Through the accessible and engaging format of street theatre, the play brought these concerns into the public domain, demonstrating the potential of performance traditions rooted in everyday life to communicate important social messages.

Street theatre holds a distinctive place in the performing arts because it brings artists and audiences into direct contact. By presenting social issues through relatable situations and immediate interaction, it encourages audiences to reflect on realities that often remain overlooked. The presentation of ‘Annani’ underscored how theatre can give a voice to social concerns, evoke empathy, and create opportunities for public engagement. Such awareness can become a meaningful step towards wider social change when supported by dialogue, collective participation, and sustained action.

The symposium also explored the relevance of Indian cultural traditions in addressing contemporary social challenges. Rooted in the experiences and expressions of everyday life, India’s folk and performance traditions have long served as platforms for communicating ideas, reflecting collective concerns, and strengthening community bonds. Street theatre continues this tradition in a contemporary form, connecting artistic expression with the realities of society.

The programme was attended by Kala Sankul members Vishwadeep, Sneha Mukherjee, Ritambhara, and others associated with art and culture. The gathering provided artists, theatre practitioners, and cultural enthusiasts with an opportunity to reflect on the role of theatre from an Indian cultural perspective and explore ways in which artistic expression can contribute to greater social awareness.

Kala Sankul, the central office of Sanskar Bharati, continues to encourage artistic practice, cultural discourse, and creative expression. Initiatives such as this symposium create valuable platforms for bringing together cultural perspectives and contemporary social concerns, while fostering dialogue on the wider responsibilities of the performing arts.

The central message of the symposium was that the true significance of art lies not only in its power of expression but also in its ability to touch minds, awaken sensibilities, and inspire reflection. When theatre inspired by Indian cultural values engages with contemporary social realities, it can serve as a meaningful bridge between culture and society. Through the presentation of ‘Annani’ and the discussions surrounding it, the symposium highlighted the continuing relevance of street theatre as a medium of social dialogue and public awareness.