Srinagar, Sep 11: The three-day Kashmir Theatre Conference commenced in Srinagar on Friday with an academic paper-reading session and an inaugural function highlighting the history, evolution and contemporary relevance of theatre in Kashmir.
The conference began with an academic session at 11 a.m., followed by an interactive discussion on “75 Years of the History of Theatre in Kashmir”.
Researchers and theatre experts Hasrat Gadda, Gouri Shankar Raina, Basheer Bhawani, Dr Aiyash Arif and Ravi Kemmu presented research-based papers during the session. The presentations focused on the evolution of Kashmiri theatre and offered suggestions for improving its quality and relevance in contemporary times.
The inaugural function was held at 4 p.m. and began with a welcome address by Seyad Humayun Qaisar and Mushtaaque Ali Ahmad Khan.
Pirzada Farooq Ahmad Shah, MLA Tangmarg, Dr Rafi, Roma Wani, Dr Shafia Wani, Basheer Bhawani and Shoqia Quraishi attended as Guests of Honour. Mian Altaf Ahmad Larvi, Member of Parliament from Anantnag-Rajouri, was the Chief Guest.
The proceedings commenced with the traditional Kashmiri ritual of ‘Isband Sozi’, symbolising purity and an auspicious beginning. The Chief Guest and Guests of Honour were subsequently felicitated with traditional shawls and mementos.
The dignitaries, in their addresses, 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 stressed the importance of cultural initiatives in strengthening the region’s artistic and cultural fabric.
The cultural segment featured a performance of the traditional Kashmiri folk dance ‘Roff’, which drew appreciation from the audience.
The inaugural day concluded with the staging of the Kashmiri play “Zu Qadam Kaithis Taam”. The theatrical presentation received applause and appreciation from the audience, setting the tone for the remaining sessions of the conference.
