Srinagar, Sept 11 (JKNS): The three-day Kashmir Theatre Conference commenced in Srinagar with an academic session exploring 75 years of theatre in Kashmir, followed by a culturally vibrant inaugural function featuring eminent experts, dignitaries, traditional performances and the staging of a Kashmiri play, highlighting the Valley’s rich theatrical heritage and its contemporary relevance.
The day commenced with an academic paper-reading session at 11:00 a.m., setting an intellectual tone for the conference. This was followed by an interactive and brainstorming discussion on “75 Years of the History of Theatre in Kashmir.”
Four eminent experts presented their research-based papers, including Hasrat Gadda, Gouri Shankar Raina, Basheer Bhawani, Dr. Aiyash Arif and Ravi Kemmu. Their presentations were highly informative, offering fresh insights into the evolution of Kashmiri theatre and putting forth important suggestions to enhance its quality and relevance in contemporary times.
The attendees engaged actively in the interaction, making the session both stimulating and productive.
The inaugural function of the conference was held with great enthusiasm and cultural fervour at 4:00 p.m. The session began with a warm welcome extended by Seyad Humayun Qaisar and Mushtaaque Ali Ahmad Khan, who greeted the distinguished guests and dignitaries.
Among the Guests of Honour were Pirzada Farooq Ahmad Shah, Hon’ble MLA Tangmarg; Dr. Rafi; Roma Wani; Dr. Shafia Wani; Basheer Bhawani; and Shoqia Quraishi.
The Chief Guest of the occasion was Jenab Mian Altaf Ahmad Larvi, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Anantnag–Rajouri, whose presence lent immense prestige to the event.
The proceedings commenced with the traditional Kashmiri ritual of ‘Isband Sozi’, symbolising purity and auspicious beginnings. Thereafter, all the Guests of Honour and the Chief Guest were felicitated with a traditional shawl and a memento as a gesture of respect and gratitude.
Each of the dignitaries addressed the gathering, offering words of appreciation for the remarkable contribution of Mushtaaque Ali Ahmad Khan and the dedicated team of ACT FOR A BETTER TOMORROW.
Their speeches underscored the importance of cultural initiatives in strengthening the artistic fabric of Kashmir and acknowledged the tireless efforts of the organisers in bringing theatre and performing arts to the forefront.
The cultural segment of the inaugural session featured the popular Kashmiri folk dance ‘Roff’, performed with elegance and vibrancy. The performance enthralled the audience and evoked the rich traditions of the Valley.
The evening concluded with the staging of the Kashmiri play “Zu Qadam Kaithis Taam”, a powerful and thought-provoking theatrical presentation.
The play was met with wide appreciation and applause, leaving a lasting impression on the audience and setting a high standard for the sessions to follow during the conference. (JKNS)
