Date: 07 Jun, 2026
A drama workshop is where the mind's hidden whispers are turned into the summer's loudest cheers.
The grand culmination ceremony of the 19th edition of “Kilkari – A Children’s & Teens’ Theatre Workshop,” presented by the Maheshwari School of Performing Arts, marked the successful conclusion of an enriching and exciting 22-day creative journey conducted from 17 May to 7 June 2026 in the school premises. Jointly organized by the Ministry of Culture, the National School of Drama, West Zone Cultural Centre, Udaipur, and Curio, with support from ECMS, the workshop transformed the summer vacation into a vibrant platform for artistic exploration, self-expression, and holistic learning.
The celebrations commenced with a distinguished welcome accorded to the esteemed dignitaries, who were escorted to the venue by the school’s NCC cadets in an impressive march past, reflecting discipline, dignity, and pride. The guests then proceeded to the Sarasvati Temple, where the traditional lamp-lighting ceremony was performed amidst an atmosphere of reverence and cultural splendour. A warm floral welcome, accompanied by the presentation of traditional saafa and shawls, added a distinctive touch of gratitude and hospitality.
The ceremony was presided over by Shri Umesh Soni, Chairman, ECMS. Shri Ashwin M. Dalvi, Director, West Zone Cultural Centre, Udaipur, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, while renowned theatre and film actor Shri Raghubir Yadav attended as the Guest of Honour. The event was also graced by distinguished members of the ECMS Management Committee, including Vice Chairman Shri Nirmal Dargar, General Secretary (Edu.) Shri Kamal Somani, Treasurer Shri Arun Kumar Maloo, Hon. Secretary of the School CA Sanjay Bangar, Shri Praveen Laddha, Building Secretary, Mr. Suman Vaidya, Children’s Theatre Wing Head & Festival incharge of NSD and School Principal Ms. Reeta Bhargava.
A thoughtfully curated PowerPoint presentation in the school auditorium, complemented by an engaging digital display in the Activity Hall, beautifully chronicled the workshop’s journey. The audience was further delighted by captivating cultural performances presented by both workshop participants and school students, showcasing remarkable creativity, confidence, and artistic excellence. The program was brilliantly anchored by Ms. Charu Dargar, an eminent social worker, known for her commitment to community welfare.
In his address, Shri Ashwin M. Dalvi lauded the initiative for providing young minds with a meaningful platform to nurture imagination, communication skills, and emotional intelligence through theatre. Shri Umesh Soni emphasized the importance of such experiential learning opportunities in shaping confident, empathetic, and culturally rooted individuals, reaffirming ECMS’s commitment to holistic education.
The most cherished highlight of the evening was the address delivered by Shri Raghubir Yadav. His eloquent reflections, interwoven with personal experiences, humour, and artistic wisdom, captivated the audience and left parents, children, educators, and staff completely mesmerized. His inspiring words underscored the transformative power of theatre in shaping sensitive, imaginative, and confident individuals.
The event concluded on a note of celebration and gratitude, with widespread appreciation for the efforts of ECMS and its partner organizations. Parents unanimously acknowledged that the workshop had transformed the summer break into a profoundly enriching experience, leaving young minds inspired, empowered, and artistically awakened. The successful culmination of Kilkari 2026 once again reaffirmed the collective commitment of ECMS, its Management Committee, educators, cultural partners, and mentors towards nurturing creativity, confidence, and cultural values among the younger generation.