12 March,2026 09:33 AM IST | Mumbai | Rumani Gabhare
A moment from the play, Akoopar. Pics courtesy/NCPA
For decades, Gujarati theatre has flourished in Mumbai - comic, philosophical and closely tied to the rhythms of everyday life. While its roots remain strongest in Ahmedabad, Vadodara and Surat, the city serves as an important stage for its evolution. That legacy comes into focus this week as the Vasant - Gujarati Theatre Festival returns to the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) with a four-day programme of plays, poetry, comedy and workshops that highlight the many forms Gujarati storytelling can take.
Aditi Desai and Bruce Guthrie
"We are delighted to welcome Gujarati-speaking audiences back for Vasant," says Bruce Guthrie, head of theatre and films at the NCPA. "Gujarati theatre plays a central role in Mumbai's cultural life, and this year's programme reflects both its depth and its range." Director Aditi Desai adds that festivals like this help bring regional theatre to wider audiences.
"Our play Akoopar, based on the novel, Akoopar by Dhruv Bhatt, explores the Maldhari community and their relationship with the lions of Gir Forest National Park. At a time when coexistence with nature is increasingly urgent, their way of life feels especially relevant. This is our 97th performance, and the play is ultimately about the search for truth - Satya."
Till March 15
At NCPA, Nariman Point.
Log on to ncpamumbai.com
Cost Rs 360 onwards (members); Rs 400 onwards (non-members)
A performance of Shakespere Mharo Jamai
A Rajasthani folk play where Banjara storytellers begin to notice uncanny parallels between Shakespearean drama and their own oral traditions, this one has satire, humour and live folk music.
ON March 12; 7 pm
AT Experimental Theatre
Set in the landscape of the Gir Forest National Park, this adaptation explores the life and philosophy of the Maldhari community and their delicate coexistence with wildlife.
ON March 14; 7 pm
AT Experimental Theatre
The festival closes with a lively musical that reimagines traditional Gujarati wedding songs while playfully examining family expectations, rituals and humour.
ON March 15; 8 pm
AT Tata Theatre
An experimental poetry-led performance by Saumya Joshi with poets Anil Chavda and Bhavesh Bhatt, that blends spoken word, rhythm and theatrical expression to explore contemporary Gujarati verse.
ON March 15; 5.30 pm
AT Tata Theatre
Stand-up comedy joins the line-up as Viraj Ghelani mines everyday Gujarati family life for humour, exaggeration and moments of instant recognition.
ON March 13; 7.30 pm
AT Tata Theatre
Revisiting the trial of the Greek philosopher Socrates, Manoj Shah's play draws parallels with Indian traditions of debate and reflects on the value of free thought.
ON March 15; 3.30 pm
AT Experimental Theatre
