Jammu Tawi: The Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) launched its much-awaited weekly theatre series, Saptahik Rangadhara, at Abhinav Theatre in Jammu today. This initiative, led by JKAACL Secretary Harvinder Kour, aims to promote theatre culture across Jammu and Kashmir and offer a platform for local artists to showcase their talent.
The series was inaugurated with the traditional lighting of the lamp by Brij Mohan Sharma, Principal Secretary Department of Culture in the gracious presence of Suresh Kumar Gupta, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests & Head of Forest Force, Sanjeev Rana, Additional Secretary JKAACL, Dr. Javed Rahi, Head of Jammu Division JKAACL, and prominent theatre artist Santosh Sangra.
Suresh Kumar Gupta, in his speech, said that it was truly heartening to witness the revival of meaningful theatre through initiatives like Saptahik Rangadhara.
Brij Mohan Sharma in his address said that it gave him immense pleasure to be part of the inaugural event of Saptahik Rangadhara, a remarkable initiative by the J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) to rejuvenate the theatre movement in the Union Territory. Today’s play “Ek Panna Gumnaam” was not only an emotionally stirring tribute to the revolutionary Ashfaq Ullah Khan and his comrades, but also a reminder of the powerful stories that remain hidden in the pages of history. He congratulated Harvinder Kour, Secretary JKAACL, and her dedicated team for taking this visionary step.
Earlier, Dr. Javaid Rahi in his welcome address said that so far, 20 theatre groups have submitted their plays, showing the enthusiasm and support this initiative is receiving from the theatre community.
The play written and directed by Rajneesh Kumar Gupta delves into the forgotten chapters of India’s freedom struggle, portraying the story of Ashfaq Ullah Khan, a revolutionary whose legacy has faded in public memory. The narrative follows Ashfaq’s grandson, also named Ashfaq, as he expresses his anguish over society’s forgetfulness toward its heroes. The play portrays the emotional and dramatic journey of Ashfaq, from his role in the Kakori Conspiracy to his martyrdom, underlining the sacrifices of revolutionaries whose contributions have been overlooked. The performance featured notable actors like Rajneesh Kumar Gupta, Kusam Tikoo, and senior theatre personalities such as Madan Rangile and Janak Khajuria. Dr. Javaid Rahi, Head of JKAACL Jammu Division, in his welcome address, emphasized that over 20 theatre groups had already submitted plays for the series, showcasing the support and enthusiasm from the theatre community. Next Saturday on 19th April, 2025 of Saptahik Rangadhara play Bali aur Shambhu will be presented by Royal Dogras group. The entry for the plays is free to all.
