12 Facts About Balwant Thakur

Balwant Thakur is an Indian theatre personality and scholar, known for bringing Dogri theatre to international notice.

Balwant Thakur was honoured by the Government of India, in 2013, by bestowing on him the Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian award, for his contributions to the field of theatre.

Balwant Thakur was born on 25 December 1960 in small mountain village in Reasi district of the north Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, to Hari Saran Thakur, a locally known traditional art performer.

Balwant Thakur graduated in business management and economics from the Government M AM college, University of Jammu and followed it with a graduation in law.

Balwant Thakur continued studies and secured a post graduate degree in mass communication.

Balwant Thakur won a Ford Foundation grant for his research work under the title, Search for a new Theatre language.

Balwant Thakur's next attempt was at the Children's theatre, Mere Hisse Ki Dhoop Kahan Hai, which was a UNESCO project.

Balwant Thakur has written many plays such as Suno Eh Kahani, Aaj Ki Aurat, Is Gran Gi Surg Banai Lo, Anpaden Da Hall, Jalo Khala, Mere Bi Ehen Kish Khaab and Aag and children's plays, Aap Hamare Hain Kaun, and Bhag Beta Bhag.

Balwant Thakur started a weekend show called Sunday Show, in 2004, which has been staging shows every week unabated through the regional turmoil, reaching 500 weekly theatre shows, considered to be a record of sorts.

Balwant Thakur is credited with the revival of the traditional theatre of Dogri and Bhand Pather.

Balwant Thakur is a recipient of the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, which he received in 1999.

Balwant Thakur has won the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages award three times, in 1983,1984 and 1985.