Ajoka theatre’s play pays tribute to Sufi poet

LAHORE

Ajoka Theatre known for presenting socially relevant and meaningful art now pays rich tribute to Sufi poet of sub-continent Kabir through its latest production “Kabira khara bazaar main”. 

The special play is a collaboration of Pakistan and Indian theatre veterans and was presented at Alhamra on Tuesday and would continue till 28. 

“Kabira khara bazaar main” is based on Indian writer Bisham Sahni’s famous play which is designed and directed by India’s prominent theatre director Kewal Dhaliwal earlier this month. Kewal Dhaliwal conducted an exclusive theatre workshop in Lahore with Ajoka team for preparation of the play. This play highlights the life, poetry and mystic approach of Bhagat Kabir. Kewal Dhaliwal visited Lahore again for the premiere of the play and enjoyed the performance of young team.

The 15th century poet-saint Kabir is best known representative of the Bhakti Movement, a monotheistic spiritual and social movement, which challenged the Hindu caste system and projected a relationship with the creator based on love and compassion.

It advocated religious harmony and tolerance and rejected faith based hatred and discrimination. The movement was greatly influenced by Sufis and their messages in India and in return the Bhakti thought profoundly influenced the later Sufis poets and mystics like Bulleh Shah and many others. 

“Kabira khara bazaar main” gives a chance to audience to appreciate the philosophy of Kabir less known to Pakistani youth. Actors highlighted the era of Kabir with perfection, presented his confrontation with religious clerics and sang his evergreen poetry which carries the universal message of peace and tolerance.

Kabir born into a lower class of Muslim family of weavers defied the caste, class and creed divide of 14th and 15th century India and fearlessly challenged the Qazi, mullahs, Pundits and Mahents with equal zeal. He was attacked by both Hindu and Muslim establishment but people loved him. Today his poetry is sung all over India and also in Pakistan.

This play is being presented in collaboration with Lahore Arts Council and CKU the Danish Center for Culture and Development.