A Strong Plea for Love

Staff report, "Bulleh ki jana mein kaun" - Daily Times - Lahore, Pakistan
Saturday, July 5, 2008

Islamabad: Paying tribute to legendary mystic Bulleh Shah, Ajoka Theatre on Friday staged the most celebrated play ‘Bulleh’, based on the story of his life.

Written by Shahid Nadeem and directed by Madeeha Gauhar, the play portrays Bulleh’s poetry, reflecting events of his life as communicated through historical records and popular myths.

His search for truth, devotion to his mentor Shah Inayat, conflict with the intolerant clergy, opposition to wars and violence in the name of religion - all were highlighted in the play.

The performance had a strong plea for love, peace and an indictment against intolerance, violence and hatred.

Mian Shaharyar composed music for the play and Uzra Butt did the choreography. The set design was simple and effective, featuring one of the most exemplary theatre groups performing to an appreciative audience.

Bulleh is personification of the rich and vibrant culture of Punjab while Ajoka strives to revive the dying culture of folk theatre in the country.

The play was presented by Pakistan National Council of Arts (PNCA) in collaboration with Sungi Development Foundation at the auditorium of National Art Gallery.

Ajoka aims at promoting theatre in Pakistan. It presents plays with references to socio-political situations and highlights various issues in strong scripts and simple sets, says Madeeha Gauhar.

Alian Aamir, a viewer, said the Bulleh’s poetry meant to educate general public so that they could differentiate truth from lie. Rizwan Ruanaq, another viewer, said Sufism could contribute towards elimination of exploitation, religious biases and social injustice.

He said peace and tolerance was the main message of Sufism, and it should be adopted if the nation wanted to come out of crises.

Ghazala Najam said the government should support companies like Ajoka Theatre so that they spread the message of Sufism widely.