Telangana Governor Jishnu Dev Varma inaugurated the 20th edition of the state’s flagship Qadir Ali Baig Theatre Festival, lauding the Foundation’s enduring contribution to Hyderabad’s rich cultural landscape.

Addressing the gathering, the Governor remarked that Hyderabad, the City of Pearls, has always been a vibrant confluence of artistic expressions, where theatre elegantly connects heritage with modernity, memory with imagination. ‘This collaboration between the Foundation and the Telangana Government exemplifies our collective commitment to preserving culture while nurturing creative innovation,’ he said.

Paying tribute to the legendary theatre doyen Qadir Ali Baig, the Governor described him as a visionary who believed in the unifying power of art. ‘His legacy lives on through the remarkable work of his son, Mohammad Ali Baig, who continues to carry forward his father’s mission with great dignity and distinction,’ he noted.

Festival Curator and celebrated theatre personality Mohammad Ali Baig announced this year’s theme, ‘From Stalwarts to Next-Gen.’ He emphasized that as the festival marks its 20th year, it aims to showcase emerging voices in theatre alongside legendary artists. ‘Over the past two decades, we have presented the who’s who of world theatre to Hyderabad audiences. Now it’s time to spotlight the next generation,’ he said.

The month-long celebration will feature icons like Anupam Kher, Sharmila Tagore, Mohan Agashe, Mahesh Elkunchwar, and Lillete Dubey, alongside rising stars Junaid Khan and Zahan Kapoor, celebrating the timeless continuum of Indian theatre.