Lucknow: Lucknow’s Regional Science City organized a city-level drama competition for school students, highlighting creativity and awareness through performing arts. Dr. Anil Rastogi, former senior scientist at CSIR-CDRI and a renowned figure in theatre and film, graced the event as the chief guest.
Dr. Rastogi encouraged students to stay informed about the latest scientific developments and advised teachers to incorporate theatre in schools. He emphasized that drama is a powerful medium to convey social messages on issues like superstitions, child labor, health and sanitation, and environmental challenges across all sections of society. Sharing his own acting experiences, he motivated the young participants and appreciated Science City for providing such a platform.
Swarup Mandal, Project Coordinator of Regional Science City, welcomed all participants and highlighted that the annual science drama competition encourages students, teachers, and other science communicators to address societal problems through science-oriented performances. He praised the dedication of students, teachers, and parents in preparing for the event, noting that these performances effectively transmit scientific messages to the community.
Six teams from different schools in Lucknow presented plays on various themes: CMS Rajajipuram-1 staged “Farms of the Future”, St. Joseph College, Sitapur Road performed “Youth Power”, Bal Nikunj Inter College Girls Wing, Mohibullapur showcased “A Star That Fell Too Soon”, Bal Nikunj English School, Paltan Chhawni presented “Women in Science”, Bal Nikunj Inter College, Mohibullapur performed “Smart Agriculture”, and Avadh Educational Academy Inter College, Khadra staged “Women in Science”.
The judging panel included Dr. Devashish Mishra (Bhartendu Natya Academy) and Rishi Srivastava (IPTA). The first prize was awarded to CMS Montessori School, Rajajipuram-1 for Farms of the Future, the second prize to St. Joseph College, Sitapur Road for Youth Power, and the third prize to Bal Nikunj English School, Paltan Chhawni for Women in Science.
The first and second prize-winning teams will compete at the zonal-level science drama competition at the National Science Centre, New Delhi, in January 2026. Chief Guest Dr. Anil Rastogi presented cash awards to the winners. Around 350 students and teachers attended and appreciated the performances, marking the event as a celebration of creativity, science, and social awareness.
