Daily Times

The eighth day of the Ajoka Dosti International Theatre Festival at Alhamra Hall #1 featured a mesmerising performance of ‘Maharani Jinda,’ a joint production by Rang Manch Rang and an Australian theatre troupe.

The play brought to life the powerful story of Maharani Jinda, the youngest and beloved wife of Sikh Ruler of Punjab Maharaja Ranjit Singh. After the assassination of her husband and his successors, Maharani Jinda Kaur ruled the crumbling Sikh Empire as regent for her son, Duleep Singh, resisting British forces and power-hungry courtiers.

The performance captured her wit, courage and leadership during a turbulent time in history. It also connected to Lahore through her granddaughter, Bamba Sofia, who later settled in the city, adding a deeper historical context.

One of the most emotional moments of the play was the portrayal of Jinda Kaur’s separation from her son and his meeting with the British in the England. The audience was deeply moved, applauding the actors for their powerful portrayal of this poignant story. Australian artist Karee, who played Maharani Jinda, expressed her pride in performing this historical story in Lahore, saying, “It was an honor to portray this part of history here in Punjab.”

Earlier in the day, festival also featured a beautiful rendition of the evergreen classic song “Aawara Hoon,” which added to the nostalgic atmosphere of the day.

Ajoka’s Executive Director, Shahid Nadeem, shared, “Tomorrow marks the final day of the festival, closing with Trunk Tales from Indian Punjab. We’re proud to bring such enriching cultural experiences to Lahore.” The nine-day festival, organised in collaboration with the Lahore Arts Council and supported by the Government of Punjab, continues to foster cultural exchange, with tomorrow’s performance and closing ceremony set to conclude this memorable event.