Srinagar, Feb 21: Vomedh Rangmanch Friday marked Mother Tongue Day with a captivating performance of the Kashmiri play Lalleshwari, written by Bal Kishan Sanyasi and directed by Rohit Bhat, at Tagore Hall, Srinagar.
Staged as part of their Repertory Show, the play transported the audience to 14th-century Kashmir, vividly portraying the spiritual journey of Lal Ded, the revered mystic poetess. The event was graced by Additional Secretary of the Cultural Academy, Adeel Saleem, as the Chief Guest, while Dr Satesh Vimal, Dr Ayash Arif, Rakesh Koul, and Shah Jahan Ahmad Bhagat attended as Guests of Honour.
In a mesmerising portrayal, Suman Pandita embodied the spirit of Shiv Yogini Lalleshwari, delivering a performance that deeply resonated with the audience. Lalleshwari, also known as Lal Ded (c. 1320–1392), holds an iconic place in Kashmiri literature and spiritual tradition. A mystic associated with Kashmir Shaivism, she pioneered Vatsun or Vakhs, a distinctive style of mystic poetry known as Lal Vakhs, forming the foundation of modern Kashmiri literature. Affectionately referred to as Lal Dyad, Lalla Yogishwari, and Mother Lal, her verses continue to inspire generations.
This evocative production, written by Bal Kishan Sanyasi and designed and directed by Rohit Bhat, featured Suman Pandita and Arvin Tickoo in leading roles. The performance was further enriched by the musical compositions of Rajesh Khar, narration by Ramesh Maratha, set design by Mudassir Khan and Mehraj-ud-Din Bhat, lighting by Shazi Khan, and costumes by Bharti Kaul. Sushma Kumari managed properties, while the melodic vocals of Shazia Bashir and Pallavi Kaul added an enchanting layer to the production. The lyrics, penned by P. N. Koul Sayil and Saurav Zadoo, particularly the song Malinev Hoe, deeply resonated with the audience. A dedicated backstage team, including Kamakhshya Dogra, Irfana Bano, Shashank Singh Rajput, Zafar Dar, and Gulfam Barji, ensured the seamless execution of the play. King C. Bharati managed media relations, while the production was staged under the supervision of Mir Manzoor. The performance was met with overwhelming appreciation, reinforcing the significance of preserving Kashmiri heritage and language through the performing arts.
