Fourth Edition of Bal Rangmanch Mahotsav 2026 Begins

Six theatrical performances on Day One showcase children’s imagination, creativity and talent

The beautiful journey of providing children with a platform for their imagination, confidence and creative expression moved forward with the fourth edition of Bal Rangmanch Mahotsav. The festival is being held from 7 to 9 October 2026 at the Gothic Hall, Gaiety Theatre, Shimla, with the aim of providing children an opportunity to express their creativity, ideas and perspectives through theatre.

The festival, now in its fourth consecutive year, reflects Team Keekli’s continued passion, belief and commitment towards theatre and children. This year, 16 institutes are participating enthusiastically with their theatrical presentations, along with two special screenings.

The festival will have the gracious presence of Divya Jagdale, actress and theatre artist, as the distinguished guest. The performances will be evaluated by an experienced jury comprising Dr. Purnima Chauhan, Anuradha Dar and Aastha Shukla Chadha. The journey has also been strengthened by the valuable contribution of senior theatre experts Shri Srinivas Joshi, Jawahar Kaul and Rajan Kaushal, along with Creative Directors Vivek Mohan, Rupesh Bheemta, Sanjeev Arora, Kumar Shanu and Adarsh Chauhan.

The first day of the festival featured six theatrical performances by children, showcasing their talent, creativity and enthusiasm for theatre.

The day began with Saraswati Paradise International Public School, which presented ‘Upahaas’, based on a story written by Ranjodh Singh. This was followed by Swaran Public School, Tutikandi, which presented ‘Little Hands, Big Difference’, based on a story by Manjula Gulati. Roots Country School, Bagi, presented ‘Bishuri Jalebi Pakode’, based on a story by Richa Kashyap. While the next presentation was by G.S.S.S. Sarog, Theog, which staged ‘The Soil Remembers’, based on a story by Shreya Negi. Sambhota Tibetan School, Chhota Shimla, presented ‘Piddu Chiddu Ki Katha’, based on a story written by Kishan Shreeman. The first day concluded with Sarvodaya Bal Ashram Rookwood, which presented ‘The Coffee Shop’, based on a story by Kiaan Amrik Thakur.

Across all six performances, the children showcased their talent through acting, dialogue, imagination and stage expression. The diverse themes and narratives brought forward the children’s creative thinking, enthusiasm and growing engagement with theatre. Bal Rangmanch Mahotsav is not merely an event; it is a continuing journey of giving children a platform for their voices, imagination and dreams. Continuing this journey into its fourth year remains a matter of pride and inspiration for Team Keekli.