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Published 26 Nov, 2008 12:00am

Bullah mesmerises audience at Lok Boli Mela

FAISALABAD, Nov 25: Unity among all religions without any discrimination was message of a play titled ‘Bullha’ performed by Ajoka Theatre on fifth day of the fourth Punjab Lok Boli Mela being held in Jaranwala.

The play dealing with the life and struggle of Bulleh Shah emphasised secular ideas and love for all.

The appreciation by spectators demonstrated that though modern era has replaced in their curricula the stories of saints of Indo-Pak subcontinent with the stories of Romeo and Juliet and others, the people still intended to have glimpses of these saints’ life.

The artistes, through fabulous performance, presented Bullah Shah as a source of inspiration for hope and humanism because his powerful voice had stressed forbearance and adore when chauvinism and hatred were prevailing all around in the Mughal era.

They informed people that Bullha prompted a relationship with a dog that was non-oppressive and enabled people to be religious and yet respect other people's belief.

In a makeshift tent hall, the performers mesmerised the audience and earned lavish extol in return.

The Ajoka, a voluntary organisation working in the field of theatre and electronic media for quality entertainment with a social purpose, is going to celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2009.

In connection with its anniversary, the organisation has planned a number of special events including an international theatre festival, a seminar, books and documentaries and a youth festival during year-long activities.

An equally matching response was earned by another play titled ‘Had Bandi’ (demarcation) written by famous playwright Lakht Pasha and performed by the students of University of Gujrat. Like Bhullah, the play Had Bandi was also all about inter-faith harmony.

Another play by the same playwright titled ‘Lakeer’ (dividing line) was performed by the students of Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan.

Students of a Deepalpur school presented a play titled ‘Neonh’ (the determination). The play imaginatively relates Bhagat Singh's struggle with modern era.

Two brothers, Habib and Rafiq, from local town enthralled music-lovers with their voice resembling to that of legend Tufail Niazi’s.

Habib also presented a traditional Rahs play “Jit faqeer di” (the victory of saint). Nazakat Ali and Zahoor Lohar from Jhang were among other nine folk singers.

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