Mumbai: The wait is finally over. The iconic PL Deshpande Maharashtra Kala Academy, a cherished hub for generations of artists and theatre enthusiasts, is all set to reopen on Friday, February 28, 2025, at 6 pm following extensive renovations.
The grand reopening will take place in the esteemed presence of chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde and deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar along with minister of Skill Development, Employment and Innovation Mangal Prabhat Lodha, minister of Public Works (excluding Public Enterprises) Shivendra Raje Bhosale, MP Anil Desai, MLA Mahesh Sawant and other dignitaries.
PL Deshpande Maharashtra Kala Academy | Official site image
Also, a new and striking emblem, representing the academy’s dedication to folk arts, classical arts, visual arts, and audiovisual arts, reaffirming its role as the premier institution for cultural excellence, will be unveiled on this occasion.
Talking to media persons, cultural affairs minister Adv. Ashish Shelar expressed his delight at the academy’s revival. He said that the reopening of Ravindra Natya Mandir marks a new dawn for Maharashtra’s thriving theatre and arts community. Since its inception, the academy has nurtured generations of artists and art enthusiasts and it will continue to nurture talent and enrich our cultural heritage for generations to come.
PL Deshpande Maharashtra Kala Academy | Official site image
After the renovation, Ravindra Natya Mandir will get transformed into a modern cultural hub with advanced sound systems and refined interiors to cater to theatre and Marathi cinema, two revamped small theatres, five exhibition halls and 15 rehearsal rooms for artists, a grand open-air stage for large-scale performances, and newly added virtual filming, sound recording, dubbing, and sound mixing studios to support the evolving creative industry.
With a vision to empower, educate, and employ the next generation of artists, the academy will soon launch 20 certificate and diploma courses in various art forms. These programs will provide structured learning and career opportunities for budding artists, ensuring the academy remains at the heart of artistic excellence.
PL Deshpande Maharashtra Kala Academy | Official site image
“This grand revival will retain Maharashtra’s rich artistic legacy. Ravindra Natya Mandir is more than just a theatre, it is a sanctuary for creativity, a platform for artists and a celebration of culture,” said minister Adv. Ashish Shelar.
Location: P. L. Deshpande Maharashtra Kala Academy, Prabhadevi, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400025
