DSM Endorsement: Sushil Premchand

The notion of a “theatre district” is a reflection of the power of cultural vitality that enhances the vibrancy of a city

I initially met Jehan Manekshaw a couple of years ago. My very first meeting was a revelation of what Mumbai desperately needed – a theatre district! That said, it was clear to me that to translate a vision into reality it clearly required the vitality of the Drama School Mumbai (“DSM”).

The notion of a “theatre district” is a reflection of the power of cultural vitality that enhances the vibrancy of a city. For this to be sustainable, the essential
need is for institutionalising the process of building the key elements – including the educational infrastructure.

DSM Endorsement: Sushil Premchand

In Mumbai, the DSM, under Jehan’s leadership, is the critical factor underlying this institutionalised process. It exists, but for the DSM and its programmes to
thrive, it needs adequate funding. Without it, its leadership cannot create the sustained integration of theatre into Mumbai’s very fabric of culture and society.
Adequate funding for the DSM, which must be free of any political bias or administrative hassles, but must be accountable and targeted, is a responsibility
that Mumbai’s citizens and businesses should ensure.

The “theatre district” is an important aspect of building the cultural building blocks we need to bring together communities, to inspire our youth and to enrich this great city. And the DSM is much more than a theatre district building block! It is a source of inspiration, of integration, of enrichment of society.

Theatre lends itself to meeting many goals in building a sense of unity, of understanding and of enjoyment. This has benefits to business as it trains individuals in building relevant skills, such as communication and presentation.

It is my view that supporting the DSM in an sustainable and on-going manner is an obligation of the Mumbai-based businesses. In the spirit of “giving back”, the benefits to business readily match the contribution to society. The leadership of DSM should use their skills to meet these essential societal goals by educating those who wish to work in theatre – in the broadest sense. At present, the leadership struggles to find the resources to survive, which is a waste of talent.

In creating a wider appreciation of theatre, of drama, of the sense of community, the DSM can be a force for integration, education and community building. But without adequate funding, this effort cannot reach its true potential.

Jehan has a vision for the DSM. This vision deserves our support! The “theatre district” is an expression that brings together many relevant factors. The DSM leadership understands the need to be financially transparent and responsible, to work within budgetary frameworks, to ensure that committed outcomes are met fully, and on time!

But, I cannot state it often enough, nothing meaningful and worthwhile can ever be achieved without adequate funding. We must make this happen by supporting the DSM! Join me in creating a sustainable and meaningful basis for the integration of theatre with the rich cultural fabric of Mumbai.

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