Veteran actor Anupam Kher recently engaged in a debate with fellow actor Ratna Pathak Shah over the nature of acting institutes in India. Shah had expressed her opinion that many acting institutes in the country were merely “shops” that focused more on making money than on imparting quality education.

Kher, however, challenged her viewpoint and raised the question of whether prestigious institutions like the National School of Drama (NSD) would also fall under the category of “shops.”

Anupam Kher Challenges Ratna Pathak Shah’s View on Acting Institutes: Questions if NSD is Also a ‘Shop’

The exchange between Kher and Shah has sparked discussions within the acting community about the purpose and integrity of acting institutes in India. While Shah’s remarks shed light on the commercialisation of education and the need for transparency in the industry, Kher’s response underscores the importance of recognising the contributions of established institutions like NSD in shaping the future of Indian cinema.

The National School of Drama, founded in 1959 by the Sangeet Natak Akademi, is one of the premier institutes for theatre training in India. Over the years, NSD has produced some of the finest actors and directors in the country, contributing significantly to the growth and development of Indian theatre and cinema.

Kher’s reference to NSD challenges Shah’s characterization of acting institutes as mere “shops,” highlighting the distinction between institutions focused on genuine artistic development and those driven solely by commercial interests.

The debate between Kher and Shah reflects broader conversations about the state of arts education in India and the need for greater accountability and oversight in the industry.

While commercialization may be a concern in some quarters, institutions like NSD serve as beacons of excellence and integrity, upholding the highest standards of artistic expression and education.

As the discussion continues, stakeholders in the acting community need to consider both perspectives and work towards creating a more transparent and inclusive environment for aspiring actors and artists.

By acknowledging the contributions of esteemed institutions like NSD and fostering a culture of creativity and innovation, the Indian film industry can continue to thrive and evolve in the years to come.