The Abdul Ahad Azad Chair, Cluster University Srinagar, in collaboration with the Young Dramatists Society and jammu and kashmir Academy of Art culture and languages organised a One-Day Theatre Festival at Amar Singh College, Srinagar, with the objective of promoting theatre as an important medium of cultural expression, preserving indigenous traditions, and reconnecting the younger generation with its rich cultural roots.
The inaugural session was graced by the Honourable Vice-Chancellor of Cluster University Srinagar, Prof. Dr. Mohammed Mubin, as the Chief Guest. The distinguished dignitaries present on the occasion included Prof. Dr. Willayat Hussain Rizwi, Registrar, Cluster University Srinagar; Prof. Dr. Khurshid Ahmad Mir, Controller of Examinations; Prof. Dr. Tehmeena Yousuf, Principal, Amar Singh College; and Dr. Shaista Ahmad, Coordinator, Abdul Ahad Azad Chair. Deans of various disciplines, heads of departments, faculty members and other distinguished guests also attended the programme.
The inaugural session commenced with a welcome address, setting the tone for a meaningful engagement with theatre, literature and cultural heritage. Subsequently, Dr. Shaista Ahmad, Coordinator, Abdul Ahad Azad Chair, delivered an insightful address highlighting the objectives and key initiatives of the Chair. She emphasised the significance of theatre as a powerful medium of artistic expression, social communication and cultural preservation. She also underscored the importance of creating meaningful platforms for students and young artists to explore their creative potential and develop a deeper understanding of their cultural and literary heritage.
Prof. Dr. Khurshid Ahmad Mir, Controller of Examinations, also appreciated the initiative and highlighted the importance of developing practical and skill-oriented learning opportunities for students. He expressed his interest in exploring the possibility of signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Young Dramatists Society to facilitate the introduction of upcoming skill-based courses. Such an initiative, he observed could provide students with opportunities to acquire practical knowledge and develop professional skills in the field of theatre and performing arts.
Prof. Dr. Tehmeena Yousuf, Principal, Amar Singh College, in her address, emphasised that reconnecting with one’s cultural roots is the need of the hour. She highlighted the importance of preserving indigenous traditions, language and cultural identity, particularly in the contemporary educational landscape. She observed that educational institutions must play an active role in nurturing cultural awareness among students and encouraging them to appreciate their rich heritage.
The Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, Cluster University Srinagar, in his address, appreciated the initiative taken by the Abdul Ahad Azad Chair and commended its efforts towards the promotion of art, culture and literature. He assured the Chair of his full support and cooperation in all its endeavours to ensure its successful functioning and future growth.
Five stage plays were performed during the festival, captivating the audience with their engaging performances and powerful theatrical presentations.
The presence of eminent academicians, university functionaries, cultural personalities, theatre practitioners and faculty members added considerable significance to the occasion. The festival served as an important platform for fostering collaboration between academic institutions and cultural organisations, while bringing together diverse stakeholders committed to the promotion of theatre and the performing arts.
The initiative reflects the vision of the Abdul Ahad Azad Chair to carry forward the literary and cultural legacy of Abdul Ahad Azad, while encouraging dialogue between literature, theatre and contemporary society. By bringing together the university and the cultural fraternity, the programme reaffirmed the role of theatre in preserving cultural memory, strengthening social consciousness and connecting younger generations with their roots.
The occasion also witnessed the release of “Unwaan,” a poetry collection, released by Mr. Ali Imran.
The Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, Cluster University Srinagar, in his address, appreciated the initiative taken by the Abdul Ahad Azad Chair and commended its efforts towards the promotion of art, culture and literature. He assured the Chair of his full support and cooperation in all its endeavours to ensure its successful functioning and future growth.
The presence of eminent academicians, university functionaries, cultural personalities, theatre practitioners and faculty members added considerable significance to the occasion. The festival served as an important platform for fostering collaboration between academic institutions and cultural organisations, while bringing together diverse stakeholders committed to the promotion of theatre and the performing arts.
The initiative reflects the vision of the Abdul Ahad Azad Chair to carry forward the literary and cultural legacy of Abdul Ahad Azad, while encouraging dialogue between literature, theatre and contemporary society. By bringing together the university and the cultural fraternity, the programme reaffirmed the role of theatre in preserving cultural memory, strengthening social consciousness and connecting younger generations with their roots.
The vote of thanks was presented by Mr. Altaf Hussain, who expressed gratitude to the dignitaries, guests, participants and all those who contributed to the successful conduct of the programme.
The programme was conducted by Mr. Rashid Nizami, a renowned broadcaster, who skilfully anchored the proceedings.
