A month long Children Theatre Workshop jointly organised by National School of Drama (NSD) and SAIL, Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP) commenced at the auditorium of Ispat English Medium School, Sector – 20, Rourkela on 12th May, 2025. Mr. Tarun Misra, ED (HR), RSP was the Chief Guest of the inaugural function. Mr. T G Kanekar, CGM (TS & CSR) was the Guest of Honor. Other Distinguished Guests who adorned the dais were Prof Dr. Samar Mudali, eminent theatre personality, Mr. Rajib Pani, President, Ekatra Socio-cultural organization, Ms. Archana Satpathy, GM (PR) & COC, RSP, Mr. Jagganath Seth, Alumnus of NSD & Director of the workshop and Mr. Bhaskar Mohapatra, Local Coordinator, NSD.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Misra praised the organisers for their commendable efforts in conducting a high-quality theatre workshop for children and youth. He emphasized the role of passion as a guiding force in such creative pursuits, likening it to a life coach that imparts valuable life lessons.
Mr. T G Kanekar encouraged the young theatre enthusiasts to make the most of the opportunity. He noted that involvement in such workshops not only enhances one’s resume but also plays a significant role in overall personality development.
Prof. Mudali appreciated RSP’s longstanding association and continued support for theatre. He highlighted that children’s workshops like this play a vital role in sharpening students’ expression and articulation skills, while also nurturing creative thinking, self-confidence, and instilling core values such as discipline, cooperation, and social empathy.
Mr. Rajib Pani remarked that the launch of this Children’s Workshop has both strengthened and broadened the theatre community. He described drama as a powerful medium of expression—one that channels emotion while fostering both convergent and creative thinking.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Jagganath Seth expressed gratitude for the support received in organizing the workshop. He highlighted the growing potential of drama schools in paving the way for successful careers in non-traditional fields.
The programme commenced with the lighting of ceremonial lamp. During the function Mr. Misra also felicitated the director of the workshop along with Mr. Surendra Kumar Padhi, Mrs. Sudeshna Rani Rout, both assistant directors and Ms. Sasmita Beck, assistant coordinator of the workshop.
It is worth mentioning here that the workshop will conclude on 10th June, 2025 with a drama presentation by the participants of the workshop at Civic Centre.
At the outset Mr. Bhaskar Mohapatra, welcomed the gathering and energized the young audience with engaging prompts and applause. Ms. Archana Satpathy proposed a formal vote of thanks while Mr. Sasanka Pattanaik, Deputy Manager (PR) was the master of the inaugural ceremony.
