On the occasion of World Theatre Day, Theatre for Kashmir organised a closed Baithak and roundtable discussion at Abi Guzar Art Space, Srinagar, bringing together a diverse and thoughtful gathering of students, academics, theatre practitioners, playwrights, members of the social sector, and intellectuals.
The initiative by Theatre for Kashmir—a committed collective to fostering meaningful theatrical discourse and practice in the region—sought to create a space where theatre could be engaged with not merely as performance, but as an intellectual and cultural force. The gathering reflected a conscious attempt to revive dialogue around theatre’s role in shaping thought, preserving literary traditions, and contributing to the broader cultural imagination of Kashmir.
The discussions centred on the evolving and future role of theatre in Kashmir. Participants emphasised the urgent need to recognise theatre as an intellectual discipline—one that engages deeply with literature, philosophy, and society. Concerns were raised about the limited focus on critical writing, research, and documentation in the field, alongside the absence of structured academic engagement with theatre in higher education institutions.
A significant and defining aspect of the Baithak was the strong presence of young participants. Students and emerging theatre enthusiasts formed a major part of the gathering and engaged actively in the discussions—asking questions, sharing perspectives, and interacting closely with senior practitioners. This intergenerational exchange was widely seen as a rare and meaningful aspect of the initiative, offering a glimpse into a future where theatre in Kashmir is sustained by both experience and fresh intellectual curiosity.
The roundtable featured contributions from prominent voices including Prof. Nasir Mirza, a renowned academic; Yousuf Shahnaz, a veteran stage actor with over six decades of experience; Dr. Zamir Ahmad, a theatre researcher and chronicler; Suhail Salim, a noted writer and literary critic; Dr. Shahzada Saleem, sociologist and social activist; Mr. Shakeel-ur-Rehman, a distinguished short story writer and playwright; and Mr. Hakeem Javaid, known for his extensive work with children and grassroots theatre engagement.
Throughout the session, participants collectively underscored the need for renewed seriousness in theatrical practice—calling for stronger playwriting traditions, critical engagement, and the integration of theatre into academic and pedagogical frameworks. The importance of introducing theatre as a formal discipline in universities, supported by research and scholarship, was highlighted as a crucial step towards sustaining the art form in the region.
The gathering, held in an intimate and reflective setting, widely regarded as a meaningful milestone for theatre in Kashmir—marking not just a celebration of World Theatre Day, but the beginning of a deeper, sustained engagement with the art form.
The event was organised by Theatre for Kashmir repertory.
The initiative was recognised for creating a rare platform where young theatre enthusiasts could engage directly with senior voices, fostering dialogue, mentorship, and a shared vision for the future.
The team at Theatre for Kashmir expressed their gratitude to all participants and contributors for making the Baithak a thoughtful and impactful gathering.
