Ajoka Theatre will stage its internationally acclaimed play Dara at the 10th Faiz Festival Friday at Alhamra Hall 2. Faiz Festival is an annual cultural event held in memory of Faiz Ahmed Faiz, celebrating his legacy through literature, theatre, music and dialogue.
Written by Shahid Nadeem and originally directed by originally Madeeha Gauhar (late), Dara is among Ajoka’s most significant productions. The play is based on the historical rivalry between Princes Dara Shikoh and Aurangzeb, the sons of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and explores competing worldviews that influenced the political and intellectual direction of the subcontinent.
The play has been performed extensively in Pakistan and internationally and was also adapted by the National Theatre UK, reflecting its international relevance. Commenting on the performance, Shahid Nadeem said that Dara continues to be relevant as it raises questions about power, ideology and tolerance that still shape societies. With a long-standing connection to the Faiz Festival, Ajoka Theatre has been a regular participant over the years.
In addition to Dara, Ajoka Theatre recently staged special performances of its cultural play Lo Phir Basant Aai in response to strong public demand, marking the return of Basant in Lahore, a festival traditionally associated with kites, colours and the arrival of spring. Ajoka revived the play to reflect the cultural spirit of Basant and its historical connection with the city of Lahore. The production was initially scheduled for two performances on 1 and 2 February at Bukhari Auditorium, Government College University, Lahore. Following an enthusiastic audience response, an additional performance was staged on February 3 at Alhamra Hall 2. Due to continued public demand, another performance was held on Thursday at 6pm at Alhamra Hall 2, in collaboration with the Lahore Arts Council.
Both additional performances were house-full and received strong audience appreciation, highlighting sustained public interest in culturally rooted theatre and Ajoka Theatre’s engagement with Lahore’s cultural traditions.