Andhra Pradesh joins National Theatre Festival celebrating 150 years of ‘Vande Mataram’
The Sangeet Natak Akademi is hosting a National Theatre Festival across 150 locations to celebrate the 150th anniversary of 'Vande Mataram'. Andhra Pradesh will feature two specific plays dedicated to patriotism and the legacy of poet Kalidasa.
Why it matters
This cultural initiative highlights the intersection of national heritage, performing arts, and government-sponsored public engagement.
The Sangeet Natak Akademi has announced the National Theatre Festival 2026, stating that all plays will be dedicated to the spirit of patriotism, commemorating the 150th anniversary of the national song ‘Vande Mataram.’
In a statement on Tuesday (July 14, 2026), Kuchipudi dancer and member of the Central government’s Sangeet Natak Akademi, S.P. Bharathi, said that the cultural festival is scheduled to take place on July 15 at 6:00 p.m., with plays being staged simultaneously across 150 locations nationwide.
In Andhra Pradesh, two plays have been selected—‘ S watantra Sangramam Spoorthi Geetham VANDE MATHARAM ,’ directed by P. Sai Sankar. The programme will be held at Velidandla Hanumantharaya Grandhalayam, Vijayawada, in collaboration with Sri Vivekananda Vidya Nikethan Educational Institution and Dr. Raman’s Foundation Sri Saibaba Natyamandali.
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