AKK’NANDUN: The Global Return of Kashmiri Folk Theatre

Convener News Desk 

Srinagar, Jan 30: Rooted in an ancient Kashmiri folk tradition, the play Akanundun has been officially selected for the International Theatre Festival of India, to be held as part of the Silver Jubilee celebrations of Bharangam 2026. The selection marks a significant milestone for Kashmiri folk theatre, reaffirming its growing presence on the global cultural stage.

Akanundun is a centuries-old mystical narrative that has been interpreted by Sufi poets of Kashmir’s Rishi tradition as a powerful metaphor for spiritual evolution and inner awakening. The story symbolically depicts the spiritual journey, sacrifice and eventual revelation of the king and queen of the mythical kingdom of Raznag, reflecting timeless philosophical and ethical themes embedded in Kashmiri thought.

The production is conceived within the traditional Kashmiri folk theatre form Bhand Peather, where music, satire, ritualistic movement and collective storytelling converge into a unified theatrical expression. The music of the play draws deeply from Kashmir’s folk-classical and devotional traditions and is performed live on stage, adding authenticity and emotional depth to the narrative.

The play has been directed and designed by renowned theatre director and practitioner Arshad Mushtaq, with Shahjehan Baghat serving as Production Supervisor. Music for the production has been composed by Manzoor-ul-Haq. The production is a collaborative effort between Peather for Kashmir and the National Bhand Theatre, featuring young performers aged between 15 and 24 years who have been trained within the traditional Bhand lineage.

The 80-minute play is scheduled to be staged on February 5, 2026, at the main stage of the National School of Drama (NSD), New Delhi. Akanundun stands as a powerful reminder that the global identity of Kashmiri theatre is deeply rooted in its indigenous traditions, music and rich intellectual heritage.