LUCKNOW, March 29 -- After undergoing a renovation, Bharatendu Natya Akademi (BNA) is all set to open in a whole new avatar next month. Confirming it, Rati Shankar Tripathi, chairman, BNA, said chief minister Yogi Adityanath is likely inaugurate the renovated building on April 3.

The Rs.22 crore renovation work began in 2024. The institute now has the Padma Shri Raj Bisara Thrust Auditorium, the BM Shah Auditorium, modern classrooms and a modular canteen. Many stalwarts, including Prof Raj Bisaria, actors Anupam Kher Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Anupam Shyam besides theatre artiste Nalneesh Neel have been associated with the BNA.

"With the inauguration will begin the BNA's golden jubilee celebrations which could not start in July last year d...