Vomedh & The Avanti Foundation ‘Mein Roopa Bhawani’ Premieres to a Spellbound Audience
Historic Play on 17th-Century Saint Receives Thunderous Standing Ovation

Jammu, March 24, 2026: A jampacked Abhinav Theatre witnessed history being made on Tuesday as Vomedh Rangmanch staged the first-ever theatrical production on the life of Mata Roopa Bhawani, a revered 17th-century Kashmiri saint. The audience sat in pindrop silence, completely captivated by the spiritual saga, before erupting into a thunderous standing ovation at the play’s conclusion. The show was dedicated to the memory of the late Dhanesh Dogra, a versatile actor from Jammu.

The event was graced by Chief Guest Shri Brij Mohan Sharma, IFS, Principal Secretary of the Department of Culture, and Guests of Honour Dr. Arvind Karwani, Relief and Rehabilitation Commissioner, and Ms. Harvinder Kour, Secretary of JKAACL. In his address, Shri Sharma lauded the production, stating, “Plays like ‘Mein Roopa Bhawani’ are not just entertainment; they are essential for preserving and propagating the profound spiritual heritage of our land for future generations.” Dr. Karwani praised the community’s spirit, adding, “To see our history and saints depicted with such devotion on stage is a testament to the resilience and cultural richness of the Kashmiri Pandit community.” Ms. Kour reiterated JKAACL’s commitment to supporting such culturally significant artistic endeavours.
Written by the eminent writer Dr. Agnishekhar, “Mein Roopa Bhawani” masterfully traces the divine journey of the saint, revered as an incarnation of Mata Sharika. The narrative beautifully portrayed her spiritually gifted childhood, the societal challenges she faced, and her ultimate path to enlightenment, emerging as a guiding light whose mystical verses and teachings on universal consciousness transcend time.
Under the brilliant design and direction of Rohit Bhat, the play was a visual and emotional spectacle. The stage came alive through a powerful blend of historical authenticity and spiritual symbolism. The soulful music, composed by Dr. Kuldeep Sudeshi, and evocative lyrics by JK Koul Bezan and Dr. Ramesh Narrash created a deeply devotional atmosphere. The production was further enhanced by stunning AI graphics from Kamakshya Dogra and recitations of Panchastavi by Jai Kishin Khar and Persian Couplets by Dr. Sarvesh Tripathi.
A stellar ensemble cast brought the story to life. J.R. Sagar (Sapru/Rajanak Pandit), Rani Bhan (Saanp Kuj), Suman Pandita (Roopa Bhawani), Jatinder Jotshi (Madhav Ju Dhar/Ali Mardan Khan), Vinay Pandita (Lal Ju Dhar), senior journalist and actor King C Bharati (Shah Kalandar/Pt. Kripa Ram Dutt/Varish Vyakti), Anil Chingari (Hiranand/Sadanand), Rahul Pandita (Nand Ram/Sutradar), Himagini Moza(Sutradar/Leela Wati), Ishu Bharati Pandit (Purohit) delivered powerful lead performances, supported by a formidable cast including Vinod Bushan (Lal Chand Razdan), Sushma Kumari (Padosan), Ajay Waguzari (Purush), Shammi Damir(Ahlakar), Ramesh Pandita(Gramin), Tanisha Shashoo (Sitree), Ranveer Pandita (Bal Dhar), Akash Katoch (Gwala/Sipahi) and Kandarv Sharma (Gramin2/Sipahi) who embodied their roles with grace and conviction.
The seamless production was a credit to the dedicated backstage team, including Bharti Kaul (Costume), Pankaj Sharma (Lights), Sushma Kumari (Properties) and Manoj Damir (Makeup), Lyrics; JK Koul Bezan / Dr Ramesh Narrash, Music Operated by Ravinder Sharma, Singers, lovely Chandra / Kuldeep Kalla / Vishal Pandita /Rahul Kumar, Make up; Manoj Damir, Video/ Still; Osheen Production, Sound; Lokesh ji, Publicity; Gulfam Barji, Costume provider; Shami Damir, Hall Management; Sunny Manjoo, Supriya Pandita, Tara Chand, Vimal ji, Arun ji, Rakesh Tickoo and Aaorhi Balgotra. The entire event was gracefully hosted by Bindiya Raina Tickoo.
In his welcome address, Rohit Bhat, President of Vomedh, expressed his gratitude to the audience and his team with special thanks to Sh Ravi Dhar and Dr Amit Wanchoo. Rakesh Roshan Bhat, Patron of Vomedh, thanked the audience for their focused attention, stating, “Your pin-drop silence was the greatest applause an artist can receive.” The formal vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Amit Wanchoo, Advisor TIFFS-JFF, with special thanks extended to Shri Ravi Dhar, President of the Sh Alakh Sahiba Trust. Rohit Bhat concluded by assuring the audience that Vomedh would soon return with another powerful performance.
Issued by
Publicity Secretary
Sushma Kumari


