Kargil: The 14-day play production-oriented theatre workshop, organized by Ladakh Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages (LAACL), Kargil, supported by the Ladakh Theatre Club and Literary Society, Suru Valley School, Kargil, concluded with a grand stage performance of Purgi play GYOTLOKS – The Weight of Regret: “A Journey from Greed to Grace” at SMM Auditorium Hall, Kargil.
The event, held in celebration of World Theatre Day 2025, witnessed an overwhelming response, with a packed auditorium and an enthusiastic audience appreciating the powerful theatrical presentation.
Written by famous Afsana Nigar Zameer Abass and directed by a young, energetic Theatre Director Ashiq Hussain Mayur, GYOTLOKS – The Weight of Regret: “A Journey from Greed to Grace” explored themes of human desire, greed, and corruption, leading to profound realizations of regret.
The gripping storyline and outstanding performances captivated the audience, drawing rounds of applause throughout the evening.
The event was graced by the presence of Kacho Mohd Feroz, Executive Councillor for Tourism & PHE, LAHDC Kargil, as the chief guest, and Er. Punchok Tashi, Executive Councillor for Zanskar Affairs & Information, LAHDC Kargil, as the guest of honour. Special guests included Imteeaz Kacho, Joint Director, Information, Ladakh, and Nasir Hussain Shabani, Chairman, Suru Valley Education Society, Kargil.
Addressing the gathering, Kacho Mohd Feroz congratulated theatre enthusiasts and emphasized the immense artistic potential of Kargil, evident from the successful production staged in just 14 days.
He commended Deputy Secretary Culture, Nazir Ladakhi, and his team members for their commitment to preserving the art of theatre in Kargil and acknowledged its significance in shaping social values.
He reaffirmed LAHDC Kargil’s commitment to promoting theatre and urged LAACL Kargil and theatre practitioners to submit proposals in coming days for a structured roadmap to support the growth of theatre in Ladakh.
Highlighting theatre’s potential to create employment opportunities, he encouraged young artists to pursue it professionally, akin to opportunities available in major cities of India and abroad.
He also stressed the importance of introducing theatre workshops at the school level, allowing children to develop creative skills and use theatre as a means to convey impactful messages.
The EC emphasized that theatre is a powerful medium for reflecting on human actions and inspiring change. He added that in the coming days, a theatre-in-education workshop will be jointly organized by LAHDC Kargil and LAALC Kargil.
Speaking on the occasion, Executive Councillor Er. Punchok Tashi also lauded the efforts of LAACL Kargil for providing a significant platform for young artists and ensuring that theatre remains a vital part of Ladakh’s cultural heritage.
He further said that LAHDC, Kargil is always ready to support initiatives that promote and develop the rich art, culture, and languages of the region. “We are committed to preserving and strengthening our cultural heritage,” he stated.
He expressed that with continued institutional support from LAACL Kargil and LAHDC, the theatre landscape in Kargil is set to flourish, nurturing young talent and revitalizing Ladakh’s cultural identity through the art of storytelling.
Nasir Hussain Shabani, in his address, congratulated the theatre community and emphasized the relevance of this year’s World Theatre Day theme, “Peace.”
He highlighted that theatre serves as a medium to promote peace and unity, particularly in a world facing political conflicts and uncertainties.
In his welcome speech, Nazir Ladakhi, Deputy Secretary, LAACL Kargil, expressed gratitude to Ladakh Theatre Club for their dedication in making the event a grand success.
He reiterated LAACL Kargil’s commitment to organizing cultural initiatives and ensuring that young artists receive opportunities to grow in diverse creative fields. He thanked guests for their presence and continued support for theatre and performing arts in Ladakh.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Mohd Issaq, General Secretary of Ladakh Theatre Club. The program proceedings were conducted by Mohd Sadiq Hardassi, a renowned Kargil historian and writer.
