Lalit Gupta
JAMMU, Feb 10: Under a notable initiative of Tribal Research and Cultural Foundation, the Gojri play Kafiloo enacted by nomadic artists from Rajouri and adjoining areas, was staged at the Abhinav Theatre, here today.
Written and directed by Choudhary Shokat Naseem, the play highlighted the representative features of socio-cultural life of nomadic Gujjar community. The story of the play revolves around disputes between Gujjar Bakerwals of different Gotras on issues like ownership rights of a pasture, inter-cast feuds, young lovers, etc. which are resolved by Muqadam- the Tribal headman who has the right to interfere as head of ‘Jirga, an old Tribal Justice system in Tribes. The play ends all the disputes being resolved amicably and the marriage ceremony of young lovers.
Though the cast exhibited the lack of theatrical training and experience, the use of elements like folk songs, dance, traditional costumes and props bestowed an earthy realism to the production that was appreciated and enjoyed by the audience. Today’s performance held with the support of Ministry of Culture, Govt. of India.
The members of the cast included Tariq Fahim, Irshad Ahmed, Yaseen Naz , Shabaz Naseem, Basharat Ali, Sadaqat Ali, Mohammad Sayeed , Liaqat Ali , Bedar Bakhat, Sarwar Hussain. Two female artistes in were Archna Sharma and Gurpreet Kour.
Dr. Shahid Iqbal, IAS, Dy Commissioner, Udhampur was chief guest while a number of tribal dignitaries and eminent writers, theatre personalities witnessed the play. Impressed by the Gojari play, Dr. Shahid Iqbal invited the group to perform at Udhampur also.
Earlier, Dr Javaid Rahi Secretary of the foundation, informed that the play ‘Kafiloo’ was written, directed, enacted and produced mainly by the member of Gujjar Bakerwal Community has emerged after a 21-day workshop conducted in Rajouri by the foundation. He said Foundation will hold a number of shows of the play in tribal areas shortly.
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