Vomedh Celebrates Mother Tongue Day with Evocative Kashmiri Play “LALLESHWARI”

Srinagar, February 21– Vomedh commemorated Mother Tongue Day with a captivating performance of the Kashmiri play “Lalleshwari” written by Bal Kishan Sanyasi and Directed by Rohit Bhat, at Tagore Hall, Srinagar. The play staged as part of their Repertory Show transported the audience to 14th-century Kashmir bringing to life the profound journey of Lal Ded, the mystic poetess.Additional Secretary cultural academy Adeel Saleem attend the function as chief guest and Dr.Satesh Vimal, Dr.Ayash Arif, Rakesh Koul and Shah Jahan Ahmad Bhagat attend the said function as guest of honour.Suman Pandita, in a mesmerizing portrayal, embodied the spirit of Shiv Yogini Lalleshwari, captivating the audience with her powerful performance.

Lalleshwari also known as Lal Ded (c. 1320–1392), holds a revered place in Kashmiri literature and spiritual tradition. A mystic of the Kashmir Shaivism school of Hindu philosophy, she is credited with creating vatsun or Vakhs, a unique style of mystic poetry known as Lal Vakhs. Her verses, considered among the earliest compositions in the Kashmiri language, represent a cornerstone of modern Kashmiri literature. Referred to affectionately as Lal Dyad (“Grandmother”), Lalleshwari, Lalla Yogishwari/Yogeshwari, and Mother Lal/Lalla, she remains an iconic figure.

This evocative production, written by Balkishan Sanyasi and designed and directed by Rohit Bhat, featured the talents of Suman Pandita and Arvin Tickoo in leading roles. The production was further enriched by the musical contributions of Rajesh Khar, the narration of Ramesh Maratha, set design by Mudassir khan,Mehraj ud din bhat , lighting by Shazi Khan, and costumes by Bharti Kaul. Sushma Kumari managed properties, while the enchanting vocals of Shazia Bashir and Pallavi Kaul added a melodic layer to the performance. The lyrics penned by P N Koul Sayil and Saurav Zadoo “Malinev Hoe” resonated deeply within the audience. The dedicated backstage crew including Kamakhshya Dogra, Irfana Bano, Shashank Singh Rajput, Zafar Dar, and Gulfam Barji ensured a seamless production. King C Bharati served as media in-charge.This play was staged under the supervision of Mir Manzoor.