Jammu, April 18, 2026: In a bold and refreshing move set to redefine theatre training in the region, Natrang Jammu today officially launched at Natrang Studio Theatre Balwant Thakur’s XXI, an innovative initiative inspired by the sporting concept of Chief Minister’s XI.” The project, already set in motion, introduces a dynamic team of 21 young theatre aspirants who have begun their new journey under the direct mentorship of eminent theatre director Padamshree Balwant Thakur.
Unlike traditional theatre setups, this project places the entire responsibility of grooming the selected talent on Balwant Thakur himself, mirroring the role of a coach shaping a high-performance team. From training and personality development to production, performances, and media projection, every aspect will be professionally managed, allowing the young artists to focus solely on growth and creativity. During the entire training programme they will always be given a special status and will be treated differently.
What makes Balwant Thakur’s XXI particularly compelling is its transformative training approach. Moving far beyond acting, the programme integrates cutting-edge, theatre-based techniques designed to reshape personalities and build essential life skills. Participants are being trained to develop strong communication abilities, command over public speaking, and the confidence to express themselves effectively in any situation. The curriculum also emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and collaborative leadership skills increasingly valued in today’s fast-evolving world.
Sources close to the project describe the training as “intensely immersive,” where theatre becomes a medium for self-discovery and empowerment. Through innovative exercises and performance-based learning, the young aspirants are expected to undergo a visible transformation, both as artists and individuals.
In a significant departure from established norms, this initiative is also breaking financial barriers. Traditionally, newcomers are required to bear the costs of training and production, but under this project, all such expenses are being taken care by Balwant Thakur, making it a rare and commendable effort to democratize access to quality theatre education.
The inaugural team of 21 has been carefully selected from Model Institute of Education and Research Jammu, marking a strong collaboration between the institution and Natrang. On the occasion, Balwant Thakur acknowledged the support of Director Dr. Adit Gupta, emphasizing the shared vision of using the arts as a powerful tool for personality transformation.
With the launch already completed and training underway, Balwant Thakur’s XXI is being seen as a game-changing experiment, one that could reshape how theatre is taught, perceived, and experienced in Jammu and beyond. Senior theatre director and actor Neeraj Kant will assist the project and Mohd. Yaseen will coordinate.