Widening their horizons at theatre workshop

Neha Saini

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, June 14

“The youth in our state is struggling to find a future, employment and avenues to grow. Therefore, they are vulnerable to exploitation,” says Afzal Khan, a young theatre artiste, who has come to attend a month-long theatre workshop at Virsa Vihar.

Afzal, who belongs to Kalai village in Poonch, one of the most disturbed areas due to border shelling, says that youngsters like him have to either move out of their home state to pursue their dreams or struggle to survive every single day.

“Only a handful manage to find government jobs. Most of the educated youth are waiting to find their way into the outside world.” Afzal wants to be an actor.

Starting as a young performer, Afzal says he used to perform Gojri folk songs and participate in festivals. “I come from a farming background and my family does not have the means to support my choice of profession and passion. Coming to Punjab has been a revelation of sorts as it is the hub of theatre and cultural activities. Back home, we have to travel to at least 300-400 km to even watch a theatre play.”

His achievement till date is being known as the only actor-model from his district. Despite everything, he says he will never leave his roots in Poonch. “It’s our virasat (heritage). Given a chance, I will like to go back and support youngsters from my village.”

He says that the cultural field has taken a hit due to the years of political conflict. “Only a few folk forms survive. Jammu, although has a different theatre scene, but not many can find stability through the profession,” he says.

A writer as well, Afzal wants to change the game at least for himself. At the workshop, mentor Kewal Dhaliwal, has been working with him on voice and speech exercises.

Another young artiste trying to break away from the league is Ankit. Hailing from the Jamtara district in Jharkand, considered one of the most backward and naxal-prone areas in the country, Ankit’s family occupation is coal mining. “We have total 100 houses in our village, where either people do farming or mining. No one cares if you have education,” he says. Inspired by the rich folk theatre, Ankit aspires to become an actor someday. “I love the sound of people clapping, when I perform well on stage. I hope one day I manage to achieve my dream,’ he says.