Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. G. Balasubramanian, has shown interest in collaborating with Nigeria’s performing arts industry, particularly in theatre.
Speaking at a film screening event hosted by the Kaduna International Film Festival (KADIFF) in cooperation with the Indian High Commission in Abuja, he expressed this willingness. The event showcased two films: the Indian short film “Rogan Josh” and “Kaka,” which was awarded KADIFF’s 2024 Best Indigenous Language Feature Film.
Balasubramanian stressed the importance of boosting film collaborations between India and Nigeria, mentioning that both countries’ cultural ministries have launched a cultural exchange program that spans various creative sectors.
Thus far, the exchange has primarily involved Nigerian dance groups from the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy and the National Council of Arts and Culture (NCAC), who have performed in India. However, Indian performers have yet to visit Nigeria in return.
The High Commissioner expressed a desire to collaborate with the National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP) to foster theatrical exchanges between the two nations. He stated, “Our cultural exchange program between the ministries of culture includes all these elements, and we hope it will encourage mutual discovery of our theatre traditions.”
Balasubramanian highlighted the richness of Indian theatre, which is represented in over 22 languages, each with its own vibrant performance history. He also noted the popularity of performing arts in India, including theatre, dance, and classical music.
In Nigeria, the theatre sector has been steadily reviving since the mid-2000s, following a downturn between the late 1980s and early 2000s. Despite limited government support, the performing arts, alongside literature and visual arts, have continued to grow, creating opportunities and promoting community development.
“As India’s High Commissioner in Abuja, I can assure you that we are enthusiastic about opening doors for collaboration. We look forward to engaging with NANTAP and exploring how to make this partnership a reality,” he concluded.
