Prithvi Theatre
A non-profit arts venue in Juhu dedicated to Hindi theatre and the performing arts, founded by actor Shashi Kapoor and his wife Jennifer as a permanent home for their repertory company.
At a glance
Prithvi Theatre is a working theatre and cultural organisation that stages performances daily except Mondays, offering everything from classical drama to contemporary work, alongside free public programmes in language, poetry, cinema, and the performing arts.
History
The theatre traces its lineage to Prithvi Theatres, a travelling company founded by actor-director Prithviraj Kapoor in 1944. For sixteen years, this ensemble toured across India, becoming influential in the development of modern Hindi theatre and establishing the Kapoor family as one of Bollywood’s most prominent artistic dynasties.
In 1978, Prithviraj’s son Shashi Kapoor and his wife Jennifer established the permanent venue to realise their vision of a dedicated home for the repertory company. Designed by architect Ved Segan, the theatre opened on 5 November 1978. Jennifer Kapoor oversaw its construction and administration until her death in 1984, after which Shashi Kapoor became Managing Trustee.
What you see
The theatre was designed by architect Ved Segan and built as a functional performance space in the Juhu neighbourhood. Its architecture prioritises the needs of live theatre—intimate staging and audience engagement.
Cultural significance
Prithvi Theatre remains a cornerstone of Hindi theatre and Mumbai’s performing arts landscape. Beyond daily productions, it hosts the annual “Prithvi Theatre Festival” (launched 1978) and the “Prithvi Memorial Concert” (28 February each year), alongside a summer programme of workshops and plays for children. Many programmes are offered free, reinforcing its mission as a non-profit cultural institution accessible to the broader public.
Key facts
- Country: India
- City: Mumbai
- Founded: 1978
- Coordinates: 19.10622°, 72.82572°
- Architect: Ved Segan
- Inaugurated: 5 November 1978
- Current Managing Trustee: Kunal Kapoor
Practical information & getting there
Prithvi Theatre is located in Juhu, Mumbai. Performances are staged daily except Monday. The venue offers regular events, workshops, and free public programmes. For current schedules and ticket information, visit the theatre’s official channels.
Sources & resources
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