Srinagar, July 15: A Kashmiri-language theatrical production highlighting the sacrifices of India’s freedom fighters was staged to an appreciative audience at Tagore Hall, Srinagar, on Tuesday as part of the National Theatre Festival 2026.
The play, “Kath Walveran Hinz,” was presented by Tulkul Arts and Media Collective in association with the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL). The production was directed by noted theatre artist Rayees Wathori, popularly known as Ravice Rashid.
Organised under the National Theatre Festival 2026 by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and the Sangeet Natak Akademi, New Delhi, the event forms part of the nationwide celebrations marking the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram and the birth anniversary of Mahakavi Kalidas.
The play depicted the courage, struggle and supreme sacrifices of legendary freedom fighters, including Shaheed Bhagat Singh and Baji Rawat, who fought against British colonial rule and dedicated their lives to India’s freedom movement.
Principal Secretary, Department of Culture, Brij Mohan Sharma, and Secretary JKAACL, Harvinder Kour, attended the programme as chief guests. Addressing the gathering, Sharma praised the performers for their remarkable stage presence and lauded director Rayees Wathori for conceptualising and executing a production that resonated strongly with the audience. He described the play as a significant theatrical achievement and suggested that it should be showcased in other districts of Jammu and Kashmir to reach a larger audience.
The event was hosted by Aneeqa Rashid Farash.
The performance kept the audience engaged throughout with its powerful acting, meaningful dialogues and effective stagecraft. Presented in Kashmiri, the play successfully blended cultural expression with themes of patriotism, social responsibility and human values.
The programme was attended by writers, theatre enthusiasts, artists, students, police personnel and members of the cultural community. Many participants observed that such national-level theatre festivals play an important role in promoting local languages and strengthening the younger generation’s connection with their cultural and artistic heritage.
