Theatre is the highest form of education: TG Governor 

Qadir Ali Baig Theatre Foundation Celebrates 20 years

Hyderabad, October 18, 2025:  “Theatre is the highest form of education – a mirror reflecting society and an instrument that nurtures empathy, creativity and profound awareness,” said H.E. The Hon’ble Governor of Telangana, Shri Jishnu Dev Varma, speaking at the celebration of 20 glorious years of the Qadir Ali Baig Theatre Foundation, held at The Park Hyderabad.

The occasion also witnessed the poster release of “Chand Tara”, a film based on legendary Taramati, produced by the Foundation in collaboration with Telangana Tourism, Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) and The Park Hyderabad.

In his address, the Governor lauded the Foundation for its contribution to Hyderabad’s cultural landscape.

“The Qadir Ali Baig Theatre Festival has become an institution, a majestic bridge connecting India’s illustrious past with its dynamic artistic present. Artists, playwrights and directors from across India and the world gather here each year, sharing stories that transcend borders and humanity’s divides,” he said.

He further remarked that Hyderabad, the City of Pearls, has long been a vibrant confluence of artistic expressions, where theatre gracefully bridges heritage and modernity, memory and imagination. “This collaboration between the Foundation and the Telangana Government exemplifies our state’s commitment to preserving culture while fostering creative innovation,” he added.

Paying homage to the late Qadir Ali Baig, the Governor said, “He was not merely a theatre pioneer but a visionary who believed that art unites humanity beyond all forms. His legacy continues through the illustrious work of his son, Mohammad Ali Baig, who has carried it forward with remarkable distinction.”

A nostalgic Mohammad Ali Baig, Founder of the Qadir Ali Baig Theatre Foundation, recollected that the Foundation’s first show was held at Taramati Baradari two decades ago, despite opposition at that time. “As we celebrate 20 years, we return to the same legend through cinema with Chand Tara, reimagining Taramati’s grace and spirit for a new generation,” he said.

Adding a soulful note to the evening, the Founder of Hyderabad, Quli Qutb Shah’s famous poem “Piya Baaj Pyala Piya Jaye Na” was rendered as a mystical musical performance, capturing the lyrical beauty of Hyderabad’s Sufi heritage. 

The film Chand Tara is co-produced by Bijay Mandani and Girish Mallpani. Former Tourism Minister Geeta Reddy, Former Telangana Advisor A.K.Khan, Lakshmi Devi Raj, cast adnd crew of the film, eminent theatre artists, cultural personalities, and dignitaries from across the state were also present on this occasion.