Kerala’s Nireeksha Women’s Theatre Shines in Nationwide ‘Vande Mataram’ 150th Anniversary Celebration
The Thiruvananthapuram Troupe Stages a Powerful Patriotic Production. ‘Swaram, Sneham, Swathanthryam’ Pays Tribute to India’s Freedom Struggle and Women Freedom Fighters, Selected by Sangeet Natak Akademi,New Delhi
BNH SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT 
Thiruvananthapuram/New Delhi: Marking the 150th anniversary of India's National Song, Vande Mataram, the Sangeet Natak Akademi, New Delhi, launched a unique nationwide cultural initiative bringing together theatre groups from every state to celebrate India's freedom movement through stage performances.
As part of the landmark celebration, selected theatre groups across the country began their performances simultaneously at 6 PM, symbolising national unity through art, culture and patriotism.
Representing Kerala, Nireeksha Women's Theatre from Thiruvananthapuram was among the two theatre groups selected for the prestigious national project. The troupe staged the original production "Swaram, Sneham, Swathanthryam" (Voice, Love and Freedom), which traced the historical origins of Vande Mataram while highlighting key chapters of India's freedom struggle.
A Tribute to Unsung Women Freedom Fighters
The production paid special tribute to the courageous women who played a pivotal role in India's independence movement. Through a compelling blend of dramatic performances, choreography and video projections, the play recreated significant moments from history, offering audiences an immersive theatrical experience.
The nationwide event commenced with the singing of "Vande Mataram", followed by the National Anthem, "Jana Gana Mana." An audio message from the Chairman of the Sangeet Natak Akademi was played before the theatrical performances began across all participating states.
Audience Applauds Powerful Performance
Following the performance, K.B. Vatsalakumari (Retd. IAS) and renowned cultural personality Margi Usha, who attended as chief guests, congratulated the artists for their outstanding presentation. The theatre team was honoured with traditional shawls in recognition of their contribution, while the audience responded with enthusiastic appreciation and standing applause.
The production brought together a talented ensemble cast featuring Aswathy T., Nandini J. M., Parvathy S. S., Advaita, Pooja Shaji, Aditi, Niya, Sabita, Angel, Shivani, Nandana and Ammu. Ashwani Chand directed and choreographed the play, blending powerful performances, expressive movement and innovative stagecraft to deliver a compelling tribute to India's freedom movement. The vocal score was performed by Ashwani Chand, Nandini and Aswathy, while Rajarajeswari designed the music with support from Ramdas Sopanam, creating a rich and evocative musical backdrop. Pradeep handled the lighting design, Sudhi Devayani was responsible for the set design, and Savitha Pramod coordinated the production as stage manager, ensuring a polished and seamless performance.
The initiative reflects the Government's continued efforts to preserve India's cultural heritage and inspire younger generations through creative storytelling rooted in the nation's history and values.
