By Dr Tania Saili Bakshi & Nikita Aggarwal
Creative: Jigyasa
Dehradun, 29 Apr: The Valley of Words International Literature & Art Festival (VoW), now in its 9th edition, announces the Fourth Edition of Iti Natya, an inter-school theatre competition celebrating youth, creativity, and the performing arts. Scheduled for 4 May at the Cultural Department Auditorium, Haridwar Bypass Road, Dehradun, this event will bring together the finest young performers from eleven premier schools across the city.
Organised by Young Indians (Yi), Dehradun Chapter, in association with CII and Valley of Words, Iti Natya is a unique platform for students aged 13 years and above to explore storytelling, stagecraft, and acting. This year’s theatre competition provides an opportunity for young minds to delve into the state’s rich heritage, explore its unique identity, and articulate their findings through the expressive medium of theatre as Uttarakhand celebrates ‘25 years of statehood’.
Dehradun’s reputed schools participating this year include Greenwood Hills School, Presidency International School, Maa Anandmayee Memorial School, Shri Ram School, Core International, St Kabir Academy, Doon Global School, Touchwood School, Doon International School, Graphic Era Global School, and Him Jyoti School. Each school brings its unique voice and energy, promising a rich tapestry of performances that blend tradition, innovation, and imagination.
Iti Natya is not merely a competition – it is a platform that nurtures confidence, fosters collaboration, and deepens students’ appreciation for the arts. Through theatre, students explore the complexities of character, narrative, and stagecraft, developing skills that go far beyond the proscenium.
Uday Nanda, Chair Thalir, YI Dehradun stated, “We are delighted to host the annual inter school drama competition ITI NATYA in collaboration with Valley of Words and celebrate 25 years of Uttarakhand. As a member of YI and noble citizens of Dehradun, this platform is created to enhance confidence and values among young students.”
A distinguished jury comprising acclaimed theatre personalities will adjudicate the performances, offering invaluable feedback and encouragement to these budding artists. The event will commence at 9 a.m., welcoming guests, educators, and art enthusiasts to witness the next generation of storytellers in action on 4 May.
This year’s edition hopes to spark a broader cultural conversation around the importance of arts in education. As families, educators, and community leaders gather under one roof, Iti Natya stands as a reminder of the transformative power of theatre—where imagination meets discipline, and every performance becomes a mirror to society and the self.
Curator of Iti Natya, Shalini Rao added, “As we celebrate the 9th edition of the Valley of Words in 2025, we invite schools from Dehradun to participate in this vibrant theatre competition, which will honour the theme: 25 Years of the Creation of Uttarakhand. Over the past quarter-century, Uttarakhand has blossomed into a hub of cultural, ecological, and historical significance. The “Iti Natya” competition provides an opportunity for young minds to delve into the state’s rich heritage, explore its unique identity, and articulate their findings through the expressive medium of theatre.”
Iti Natya is more than an event—it is a celebration of dreams taking shape on stage, of stories that demand to be told, and of a generation that dares to imagine, perform, and inspire. Let the applause resound not just for the performances but for the passion, perseverance, and promise of every student who steps into the spotlight. Come join us as young minds create magic!
