Bhand Pather Needs Proper Attention

By Rameez Makhdoomi

It is agreed facet that Culture is the soul of humanity, and Kashmir is renowned worldwide for its vibrant cultural heritage. Bhand Pather, a traditional folk theater, is a thundering and positive example of Kashmir's rich cultural extravaganza. This ancient art form, primarily performed in rural areas, is a captivating blend of song, dance, and drama, often laced with satire, wit, and dry humor.

As a matter of fact ,

Bhand Pather's narratives, reflecting the pulse of society and history, typically depict the triumph of good over evil, filling the air with mirth and merriment. According to the theater experts, Bhand Pather is one of the oldest theaters in the subcontinent, with some sources tracing its origins to the 15th century AD, when Sultan Zain-ul-Abidine invited artists from Central Asia to Kashmir.

Over the past few decades, the Bhand Pather is facing a decline due to government inattention and lack of social acceptability. Many artists have abandoned this art form, and their children are not being taught the craft. 

We need to bear in mind It's imperative that we revive Bhand Pather by encouraging its artists and introducing effective policies to support this sensitive theater form.

The sane pulse suggests that Kashmir needs a policy to give new life to Bhand Pather and recognize the value of its artists. By promoting this traditional art form, we can preserve Kashmir's cultural heritage and ensure its continued relevance in modern times.

We need to revive every traditional rich art form.