Why is Panjab University's Indian Theatre department understaffed?

The department has not hired permanent faculty in 18 years, leaving only one regular professor.

Which famous actors graduated from Panjab University's Theatre department?

Alumni include Anupam Kher, Kirron Kher, Poonam Dhillon, and the late Satish Kaushik.

What is being done about the faculty shortage at Panjab University?

The university administration has promised to expedite the recruitment process for new faculty.

Home / Education / Bollywood's Alma Mater Faces Faculty Crisis

Bollywood's Alma Mater Faces Faculty Crisis

5 Jan

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Summary

Department has had no permanent faculty hires for 18 years.
Only one regular teacher remains, impacting student guidance.
Alumni include stars like Anupam Kher and the late Satish Kaushik.

Bollywood's Alma Mater Faces Faculty Crisis

Panjab University's Department of Indian Theatre, renowned for producing Bollywood luminaries, is grappling with a prolonged faculty deficit. The department has not appointed a permanent faculty member since 2007, leaving its academic future uncertain. Currently, only one assistant professor remains, supported by temporary staff, to manage the Master of Arts program and doctoral research.

The recruitment process for two assistant professor positions, initiated in 2022, has seen minimal progress, with interviews still pending despite candidate screening completion. This staffing crisis, exacerbated by a faculty departure in 2021, has drawn criticism from notable alumni and current students. They argue the university is neglecting a vital cultural institution.

University vice-chancellor Renu Vig has acknowledged the critical situation and pledged to accelerate the hiring process. The department, which counts Anupam Kher, Kirron Kher, and the late Satish Kaushik among its distinguished alumni, is facing calls for urgent administrative action to restore its academic strength.