Daily Times

LAHORE: Ajoka Theatre’s annual drama festival titled Reclaiming Our History concluded after a four days of spellbinding performances.

The festival marked Ajoka’s 32nd anniversary where four different plays were performed that represented the artists’ brilliance, skill and craft.

These plays included two recent productions “Anni Maa Da Sapna” and “Kabira Kharra Bazaar May” along with two classics “Kaun Hai Yeh Gustakh?” and “Lo Phir Basant Ayi”. These selected plays showed a glimpse of Ajoka’s long and successful journey.

On the last day of the festival, “Kabira Kharra Bazaar May” was performed which was based on the life of Sufi saint Bhagat Kabir. It was written by Bisham Sahni and was directed by Kewal Dhaliwaal who was visiting from Amritsar especially for Ajoka’s 32nd anniversary celebrations.

The play highlighted the Bhagti Movement and disseminated the message of religious harmony, tolerance and peace. It was well received by the audience, as they admired the theme and message of
the play.

While speaking on the occasion, Dhaliwaal congratulated Ajoka for its 32nd anniversary and informed how Indian theatre lovers are always eagerly awaiting Ajoka’s plays to be aired in their country.

Ajoka’s role in promoting theatre and cultural activities is well acclaimed. Ajoka’s play “Bullah” proved to be a breath of fresh air in enhancing peace through a collaboration between Pakistan and India. Dhaliwaal said he enjoyed working with the Ajoka team and will continue to be a part of it in the future as well.

Ajoka Theatre has introduced the art of meaningful and socially responsible theatre in Pakistan. Ajoka has raised its expertise by collaborating with foreign directors and theatre groups which have benefited the actors as well.

The four-day drama festival proved to be a real source of entertainment for Lahoris. Despite the severe heatwave, all halls of Alhamra remained packed on all four days.