Natya Darpan-NJ: Celebrating the Art of Storytelling
For the past nine years, IHCA-NJ has proudly presented Natya Darpan, a one-of-a-kind multilingual short play festival in New Jersey. This event has become a cultural landmark, showcasing exceptionally high-quality short plays in Hindi, Marathi, Bengali, Kannada, Gujarati, and English, performed by some of the most acclaimed and award-winning theater groups from across the U.S.
Natya Darpan, literary means mirror to the society through theater, is more than just a festival—
it’s a creative platform that celebrates diversity and artistry. Scripts in any language are invited from both renowned and emerging theater groups, ensuring a rich blend of perspectives and styles. A distinguished selection committee, comprising accomplished actors, directors, and writers from the U.S. and India, meticulously reviews submissions. Shortlisted plays are invited to audition in New Jersey, from which the final 6-8 plays are chosen for the festival.
What makes Natya Darpan truly unique is its philosophy. It’s a showcase, not a competition, offering complete creative freedom to directors to bring their artistic visions to life. We prioritize out-of-the-box concepts and thought-provoking messages, focusing on substance over elaborate sets or props. During last 9 years, over 66 short plays in various languages were presented by over 650 exceptionally talented artists in New Jersey, Washington DC and in Boston.
Join us at Natya Darpan, where stories transcend boundaries, and creativity knows no limits.
Event History
Executive Directors

Nitin Ashtekar
908-392-5152

Salil Parkar
201 600 9647

Ashok Chaudhary
732-533-9194

Sachin Ranade
917 754 9391

Dhanu Gupta
630-297-1602

Snehal Vaze
732-979-1771


















