Ajoka Theatre presented its play “Bulha” at the PUCAR Sufi Festival 2026 at the Punjab Arts Council Sahiwal Division (Jinnah Hall) Sahiwal, on Friday, June 12.
Written by Ajoka’s Executive Director Shahid Nadeem and originally directed by the late Madeeha Gauhar, Bulha is one of Ajoka Theatre’s longest-running productions. Ajoka recently marked its 42nd anniversary with a silver jubilee performance of Bulha in Lahore. Since its premiere in 2001, the play has been staged across Pakistan and abroad and is widely recognized for its message of peace, tolerance and social harmony.
The play portrays the life and spiritual journey of the Punjabi Sufi poet Bulleh Shah, focusing on his search for truth, his relationship with his spiritual mentor Shah Inayat, and his opposition to intolerance and social divisions. Through theatre, music and poetry, the production highlights the humanistic values associated with the Sufi tradition.
Speaking about the performance, Shahid Nadeem said that Bulha was selected for the Pukar Sufi Festival because it embodies the spirit of Sufism. Through the teachings and poetry of Bulleh Shah, the play promotes peace, love, tolerance and social harmony. He added that its message remains as relevant today as when it was first staged more than two decades ago.
The presentation of Bulha at the festival is part of Ajoka Theatre’s continued efforts to promote socially relevant theatre and cultural dialogue. Theatre enthusiasts, students and families are invited to attend the performance. The play is suitable for audiences aged 10 and above.