Jammu, 06 December, 2025: The Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages, under its weekly theatre series Saptahik Rangdhara, today presented the thought-provoking play “Zakhmi Khwahish”, written by noted playwright Kulwant Manhas and staged by Himalayan Folk Theatre and Musical Group at Abhinav Theatre, Jammu.
After the presentation, the group was felicitated with a memento on behalf of JKAACL by Dr. Javaid Rahi, Divisional Head, JKAACL Jammu, along with Anil Tickoo, Assistant Cultural Officer.
“Zakhmi Khwahish” is a social tragedy centred on Aslam, whose life collapses when a tragic accident on his wedding night leaves him paralysed. His young bride Tabassum finds herself emotionally trapped between marital duty and her unfulfilled desires. In a gesture of goodwill, Aslam encourages her to interact freely with Saleem, but human instincts lead Tabassum and Saleem into an emotional entanglement, deepening the family turmoil. Meanwhile, Kouser, the devoted maid, reveals her long-held affection for Aslam and accepts his proposal, only to become a widow within minutes. The play raises a compelling social question: Should a woman remain bound to an incomplete marriage, or is she justified in seeking a new beginning when fate denies her a meaningful married life?
Dazy Bazaz as Begum portrayed the moral backbone of the family, torn between societal norms and the collapsing world around her. Anil Koul as Aslam brought depth to the character of a man battling physical disability and emotional devastation with dignity. Diya Parihar as Tabassum captured the anguish of a woman trapped between duty and suppressed emotions. Mansi Rajput as Kouser embodied the quiet yet intense loyalty of a woman who loves selflessly. Arun Sharma as Saleem portrayed the vulnerability of a young man caught in circumstances beyond his control.
The play was written by K. Manhas and jointly directed by K. Manhas and Jatinder Jotshi. Music was composed by Sunil Sharma, while Rahul Pandita and team crafted the set design. Costumes were designed by Shoki Lidhoo and Kusum Koul, and makeup was executed by Sunidhi Badyal. The production was led by Susheel Bhat and Ranjan Koul, with lighting by Ramesh Pandit and Vishal Raina. Hall management was efficiently handled by Aditya Tickoo and Dr. Ramesh Razvan. Overall coordination was supervised by Dazy Bazaz.
