Srinagar, October 8, 2025 – In a vibrant resurgence of artistic expression, theatre rehearsals are breathing new life into Kashmir’s rich cultural heritage, with young artists stepping boldly into the spotlight. As stage shows prepare for upcoming performances across the valley, these efforts underscore the enduring power of theatre to entertain, educate, and preserve traditions amid modern challenges.Kashmir’s theatre legacy stretches back thousands of years, serving as a vital thread in the region’s cultural and traditional tapestry. For decades, it has not only captivated local audiences but also illuminated pressing social issues, from community conflicts to everyday struggles. Yet, in recent years, the rise of digital media and cinema has overshadowed this timeless art form. Now, under the guidance of seasoned filmmakers and directors, prominent theatre groups are redoubling efforts to safeguard and pass on this inheritance to the next generation.At the forefront is the Kashmir Kala Manch, one of the valley’s oldest and most resilient theatre ensembles.
Even during periods of profound turmoil, the group has steadfastly upheld the flame of performative arts, mentoring aspiring talents and staging productions that resonate deeply with Kashmiri identity. “Theatre is not just entertainment; it’s a mirror to our society and a bridge across generations,” says a senior member of the Manch, emphasizing the group’s commitment to holistic training.Over the past week, rehearsals at the Manch have intensified, drawing in a fresh cohort of young performers eager to master the craft. Sessions focus on foundational skills: script memorization, nuanced dialogue delivery, expressive timing, and collaborative stage dynamics. “We start from the basics—learning lines with emotion, not just words. It’s about feeling the story,” shares 22-year-old aspiring actor Aisha Bhat, who joined the group last month. Participants, ranging from college students to recent graduates, spend hours refining movements, improvising scenes, and even assisting with props and lighting, fostering a sense of communal ownership.This revival extends beyond the Manch. Similar initiatives echo across Kashmir, including workshops in Ganderbal district organized by the Azad Dramatic Cultural Club, which wrapped up a seven-day session in late December 2024. There, over 50 youths delved into Kashmiri theatre traditions, blending storytelling with contemporary relevance to counter the pull of streaming platforms and social media. “Theatre connects us to our roots—it’s our way of healing and healing society,” notes workshop facilitator Rayees Wathori, a young theatre activist who has adapted folk forms like Bhaand Pather to address issues such as drug addiction and dowry.Veteran director M.K. Raina, whose memoir chronicles the fight to resurrect theatre in strife-torn Kashmir, echoes this sentiment. Recalling impromptu rehearsals in orchards and mountain clearings during the 1990s, Raina highlights how such grassroots efforts reclaimed public spaces for art.
Today, his influence lingers in groups like the Manch, where young artists like 19-year-old Omar Khan find empowerment. “In a world of screens, theatre demands presence—it’s raw, real, and ours,” Khan says, practicing a monologue under the watchful eye of mentors.Challenges persist, however. Funding shortages and venue limitations hinder scalability, while misconceptions linger—that theatre is a fleeting endeavor or secondary to Kashmir’s famed cuisine and crafts. “People assume plays spring up overnight, but we toil for months. It’s a collective labor of love,” counters a Manch coordinator. Yet, optimism abounds. The J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages supports such programs, with summer workshops in Jammu drawing over 100 children to explore theatre alongside dance and painting.As curtains rise on upcoming festivals, these rehearsals signal more than a cultural comeback—they herald a youth-led renaissance. By weaving Kashmiri folklore with modern narratives, young artists are not just performing; they’re scripting a future where theatre remains central to the valley’s soul. In the words of one trainee: “We’re taking centre-stage to ensure our legacy doesn’t fade—it’s our story to tell.”
