Srinagar : The three-day Kashmir Theatre Conference began in Srinagar on Friday with an academic discussion on the history of theatre in Kashmir, followed by an inaugural function showcasing the region’s rich cultural and theatrical traditions.
The first day of the conference commenced with a paper-reading session at 11 am, focusing on the evolution of theatre in Kashmir. It was followed by an interactive brainstorming session on “75 Years of the History of Theatre in Kashmir”.
The session brought together theatre practitioners and experts who presented research-based papers and shared their perspectives on the journey of Kashmiri theatre over the decades.
Hasrat Gadda, Gouri Shankar Raina, Basheer Bhawani, Dr AiyashArif and Ravi Kemmu presented their papers and offered insights into the development of theatre in the region. The presentations also highlighted the need to improve the quality and contemporary relevance of Kashmiri theatre.
The participants took part in an extensive interaction following the presentations, making the academic session an engaging platform for discussion on the present and future of theatre in Kashmir.
The inaugural function of the conference was held at 4 pm amid cultural fervour and enthusiasm. Seyad Humayun Qaisar and Mushtaaque Ali Ahmad Khan welcomed the guests and dignitaries attending the event.
Jenab Mian Altaf Ahmad Larvi, Member of Parliament from Anantnag-Rajouri, attended the function as the Chief Guest. The Guests of Honour included Pirzada Farooq Ahmad Shah, MLA Tangmarg, Dr Rafi, Roma Wani, Dr Shafia Wani, Basheer Bhawani and Shoqia Quraishi.
The proceedings began with the traditional Kashmiri ritual of ‘IsbandSozi’, marking an auspicious beginning to the conference.
The Chief Guest and Guests of Honour were subsequently felicitated with traditional shawls and mementos in recognition of their presence and support for the cultural initiative.
Addressing the gathering, the dignitaries appreciated the contribution of Mushtaaque Ali Ahmad Khan and the team of ACT FOR A BETTER TOMORROW towards promoting theatre and performing arts in Kashmir.
They emphasised the importance of preserving and promoting the region’s cultural heritage while creating greater opportunities for theatre practitioners and artists.
The cultural segment of the inaugural session featured a performance of the traditional Kashmiri folk dance ‘Roff’. The vibrant performance drew appreciation from the audience and brought the Valley’s folk traditions to the centre of the inaugural programme.
The first day’s proceedings concluded with the staging of the Kashmiri play “Zu QadamKaithisTaam”. The theatrical presentation received appreciation from the audience, with the performance drawing applause at the end of the evening.
The conference is expected to continue with further discussions, cultural performances and theatrical presentations, providing a platform for artists, scholars and theatre practitioners to deliberate on the past, present and future of theatre in Kashmir.
