If you come from the hills of Uttarakhand and want to build a career in acting, the path is closer than it looks. Starting out on a small stage and working your way up to the National School of Drama (NSD), the country's most respected acting institute, is entirely possible. The proof sits right in Nainital, where the well-known theatre group Yugmanch keeps shaping artists who have gone on to earn national recognition. So far, 17 Yugmanch artists have secured admission to NSD, bringing pride to both the group and the town.
Vinod Suman, a faculty member at NSD who was in Nainital, says theatre is the strongest foundation for anyone hoping to last and grow in the world of acting. According to him, admission to NSD begins with an online application, followed by an audition and an interview. During this stage, a candidate's acting ability, dialogue delivery, stage presentation and understanding of theatre are all assessed. His advice to any young person burning with a passion for acting is simple: begin with theatre, because the stage is what sharpens an artist's confidence and craft.
What the admission process looks like
Parag Sharma, the production manager at NSD, explained the admission process in detail. He said applications are invited every year between March and April, and interested candidates can apply through the institute's official website. It is a three-year residential diploma course that offers practical training in acting, direction, theatre, stage design and other finer aspects of the craft.
According to Parag Sharma, a candidate must be a graduate to apply. On top of that, the applicant should have experience of acting or theatre work in at least six plays. Only 33 seats are filled across the entire country each year, which makes the competition extremely tough.
Selection happens in two stages
The selection is carried out in two stages. First comes a 30-mark objective written test with questions related to theatre and drama. This is followed by an 80-mark practical audition, where acting, dialogue presentation, expression and stage performance are evaluated. The final selection is made strictly on merit.
Free education, plus a monthly stipend
The most striking thing about NSD is that education here is completely free of cost. Beyond that, the Government of India provides every student a scholarship of 9,500 rupees per month. Hostel, mess and other essential facilities are also provided. Since it is a residential course, students must stay on the institute's campus throughout their training.
From the mountains to the screen
NSD faculty member Suman Vaidh shared his own story, explaining that he too began his acting journey at Yugmanch, Nainital's oldest theatre group. He went on to train at NSD and later played key roles in several films. He believes there is no shortage of talent or hard work among the youth of the hills, what they need is the right guidance, constant practice and stage experience. For young people in Uttarakhand, he says, theatre is not merely a hobby but a powerful way to build an identity at the national and international level. With dedication, discipline and a hunger to learn, reaching the country's biggest theatre institute from the mountains is absolutely achievable.
