Despite growing extremism and tensions between Pakistan and India, theatre can play a significant role in strengthening people-topeople relations between the two countries, said prominent playwright Shahid Nadeem.
The head of Ajoka Theatre was delivering a talk arranged by the Thaap cultural organisation on ‘Theatre for Peace: Is it still possible?’ Shahid Nadeem spoke about his theatre group’s contribution to peacebuilding in the region and emphasised that arts-based initiatives can bypass political or communal blocks and strengthen the desire for peace and goodwill.
He said Ajoka received warm response from Indian audiences everywhere, even after Narendra Modi swept to power based on anti-Pakistan Hindutva ideology.
He said the challenges for a theatre for peace have multiplied in recent years due to growing extremism but the artists from either side are determined to carry the torch of peace and humanism till their goals are achieved.
He also answered questions from the audience. A documentary on Ajoka’s work for peace was also screened.
The talk was attended by eminent intellectuals and cultural activists including former NCA principal Sajida Vandal, architects Pervez Vandal and Khawar Hassan, former HEC chairman Dr Nizamud Din, and drama teacher Perin Boga.
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