How a Pune school teacher is shaping next generation of acting stars

In a small town of Pune, a teacher named Ravindra Satpute is revolutionizing the way students learn by incorporating theatre into their education. At New English School, Ramanbaug, Satpute has been teaching Marathi and Hindi since 2003, and has transformed theatre into an effective learning tool. With a background in acting and theatre appreciation, Satpute recognized the need for a more engaging approach to teaching.

He began writing stories tailored to his students' interests and energy levels, eventually leading to the creation of large-scale group theatre events. The most notable achievement was directing the play "Jaanta Raja" with 2550 students and staff members, earning the event a place in the Limca Book of Records. Satpute's innovative methods have not only fostered a love for theatre among his students but also helped them develop essential skills such as makeup, art direction, and music editing.

Many of his former students have gone on to successful careers in the Marathi film and theatre industry, while others have pursued careers in music. One of Satpute's most significant insights is the importance of confidence in acting and life. His former student, Raghav Vartak, credits his time at New English School for boosting his confidence, which now serves him well in his corporate marketing job.

Satpute balances theatre education with academics, ensuring students practice during holidays or late evenings to avoid impacting their main studies. He also integrates drama into other subjects, such as math and science, turning complex concepts into engaging plays. Satpute encourages other teachers to step away from routine and explore local plays, and emphasizes the value of grading students' unique expressions alongside their exam performance.

For Satpute, teaching is not just about academics; it's about discovering the artist within every child and helping them grow into confident individuals.