Stellar Performance of Munshi Premchand’s ‘Kafan,’ Adapted into Dogri, Celebrates Samooh Theatre’s 31st Foundation Day

Jammu, June 27, 2024: Samooh Theatre celebrated its 31st Foundation Day with a grand and evocative performance of Munshi Premchand’s renowned play, ‘Kafan,’ adapted into Dogri. Skillfully crafted by Dr. Sudhir Mahajan and directed by the talented Ravinder Sharma, the adaptation enthralled the audience at the Writer’s Club, Abhinav Theatre in Jammu.

The Dogri adaptation of ‘Kafan’ breathed new life into the classic tale, preserving its poignant essence while infusing it with local cultural nuances. Dr. Mahajan’s adaptation paid homage to Premchand’s original work, capturing its social and emotional depth, and translating it seamlessly into Dogri, making it both accessible and relatable to the local audience.

Under Sharma’s expert direction, the performance unfolded with remarkable intensity and emotion. The cast delivered powerful performances, bringing to life the characters’ despair and helplessness in a manner that deeply resonated with the audience. The minimalist yet impactful stage design, combined with evocative lighting and sound effects, added to the immersive experience, drawing the audience into the harrowing world depicted by Premchand.

The cast included Hetender Singh, Param Sagar, Akash Katoch, Gourav Singh Manhas, Drishti, Adity Sharma, and Farhat Salim. Radhika Sharma and Sandeep Manhas assisted in direction, while Vinay Sharma handled the music. Anita Chandpuri and Rohit Bains served as production controllers.

Samooh Theatre, renowned for its commitment to promoting regional arts and literature, has once again demonstrated its dedication through this production. The theatre group’s 31-year journey has been marked by numerous accolades and a steadfast devotion to cultural enrichment, and this performance of ‘Kafan’ stands as a testament to its enduring legacy.

An enthusiastic audience, including distinguished guests from the arts and literary community, attended the event. Their presence and applause underscored the success of the evening and the continued relevance of Munshi Premchand’s work. The performance concluded with heartfelt acknowledgments of the cast and crew’s hard work and the unwavering support of the patrons and audience members who have been integral to Samooh Theatre’s journey.

As the curtains fell, the echoes of ‘Kafan’s’ powerful narrative lingered, leaving an indelible mark on all who witnessed it. The performance not only celebrated the rich heritage of Dogri language and literature but also underscored the timeless nature of Premchand’s storytelling.