JAMMU, MARCH 28: Natrang Jammu felicitated distinguished dignitaries and senior artists following the successful performance of Molière’s popular play Kauva Chala Hans Ki Chala at a jam-packed Abhinav Theatre. The play, brilliantly directed by Sumeet Sharma, a national awardee for theatre direction, was supported by the J&K Academy of Art, Culture & Languages.
Shantmanu, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Education, UT of J&K, graced the occasion as the chief guest, witnessing the magnificent performance along with other distinguished dignitaries, including Suresh Gupta, IFS, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, UT of J&K, and Harvinder Kaur, JKAS, Secretary, J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages.
Shantmanu applauded Natrang’s continuous efforts in shaping the cultural landscape of the region and praised Padmashri Balwant Thakur, Director, Natrang, for his unmatched contributions to theatre, both in quality and quantity.
Suresh Gupta expressed his delight at witnessing such an exceptional performance by the highly talented artists of Natrang, calling it a fitting commemoration of World Theatre Day. He congratulated Natrang for its relentless pursuit of excellence in theatre.
Harvinder Kaur was also felicitated on the occasion and commended Natrang for delivering a highly professional and captivating performance. Padmashri Balwant Thakur honored the distinguished guests for their contributions to the promotion of art and culture. He reiterated Natrang’s commitment to excellence in theatre and highlighted its role in training and nurturing hundreds of professional artists who continue to shape the cultural fabric of the region.
Senior artists were also felicitated, including Anil Tickoo, the only actor from the region to receive the Sangeet Natak Akademi (SNA) National Award for Theatre Acting. His outstanding performance in the lead role significantly enhanced the impact of the play. He was supported by seasoned actors Neeraj Kant, Sanjeev Gupta, and Sunita Pandit.
The flawless performances of Natrang’s trained actors were also widely appreciated, including Meenakshi Bhagat, Shivam Singh, Kanan Preet Kour, Mihir Gujral, Aadesh Dhar, Sanket Bhagat, Mehak Chib, Ranjana Prasher Sharma, and Kartik Kumar.
The production team played a crucial role in the success of the event, with lights designed and operated by Suraj Ganjoo, sound by Lokesh Chander, graphics and design by Chander Shekhar and Soujanya Shekhar, and makeup by Kamal Sharma. Coordination was handled by Mohd. Yaseen and Palshin Dutta, while hall management was looked after by Vandana Thakur, Adaksh Bagal, Aryan Sharma, Mitali Sarmal, Simran Bhagat, Priyal Ashok Gupta, and Prerna Sharma.