SVAPADA stages Rangyug's historic Dogri play 'Chanchlo' at JU

Jammu, August 22: The School of Visual and Performing Arts, Design and Architecture (SVAPADA), University of Jammu (UoJ), in collaboration with the Institute of Music and Fine Arts (IMFA), and Zamin Foundation Kashmir staged Rangyug’s historic and acclaimed Dogri play Chanchlo at Brigadier Rajinder Singh Auditorium today.

The remarkable initiative was taken by Prof. Shohab Inayat Malik, Principal IMFA, who has recently assumed charge as Director SVAPADA.

The solo performance of Chanchlo by Rangyug left the audience spellbound for more than 90 minutes.

Originally written in Hindi by acclaimed playwright and director Nadira Zaheer Babbar as Sakubai, the play has been beautifully adapted into Dogri and seamlessly performed by RJ Dr. Juhie Mohan, an alumna of Jammu University The play has been designed and directed by eminent theatre personality Deepak Kumar.

Set in urban Jammu, Chanchlo tells the story of a domestic worker who migrates from a remote village in search of work. Her life unfolds on stage with humor, pain, reflection and irony, touching on themes of migration, exploitation, resilience and the unspoken dignity of labor. While the story is personal, it resonates with the lived experiences of thousands of working-class women from the unorganized sector across the region.

Applauding the initiatives, Prof. Neelu Rohmetra, Dean Research Studies, University of Jammu, said: “Chanchlo is not merely a play; it is a compelling voice for those who often remain unheard and unseen. She congratulated Rangyug, Dr. Juhie Mohan, and the team for this bold, thoughtful, and artistically rich performance in Dogri. 'This production is a shining example of how regional theatre can combine social relevance with artistic excellence.”

She said that the University of Jammu has always encouraged endeavors that promote arts and culture. 'Such efforts are vital to preserve our linguistic heritage and keep our cultural consciousness alive', she added.

In his address, Prof Khwaja Md. Ekramuddin from JNU, New Delhi lauded SVAPADA, IMFA and Zamin Foundation for their initiative in promoting regional languages and theatre. “Chanchlo is a voice of society itself. Theatre of this kind holds a mirror before us and also becomes a catalyst for self-realization and social change. He congratulated Rangyug for their meaningful commitment to regional theatre, and Dr. Juhie Mohan for her remarkable adaptation and solo performance, which brought Dogri’s beauty and strength alive on stage. 'Such initiatives strengthen our cultural identity while also giving it a global resonance', he said.

Prof Khwaja Ekramuddin also hailed Prof. Shohab for steering the School towards becoming a vibrant hub of creativity.

Earlier, Prof. Shohab Inayat Malik highlighted the importance of staging such productions in universities: “Performances like Chanchlo bring cultural and social engagement to the campus. It enriches students’ appreciation of literature and performance and also strengthens our commitment to regional languages and cultural identity. I am delighted that SVAPADA, IMFA and Zamin Foundation could bring such a meaningful production here. Under the vision of our Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, Prof. Umesh Rai, we are committed to make UoJ a vibrant hub of art, culture and creativity.” He also added that such initiatives are in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which encourages the integration of art and culture into mainstream education for holistic development.

One of the senior professors remarked in awe: “This was truly an extraordinary performance. To hold the stage alone for over 90 minutes with such intensity is remarkable — a rare feat.”

Another faculty member added: “Such performances in Dogri must be staged more often. This is an exceptional production showcases the richness of our language and also delivers a strong message to society.”

Students who attended in large numbers, also appreciated the initiative of the University for presenting such a meaningful play. Many said this was the first time they had witnessed such a powerful solo act in Dogri. “It was so engaging that we forgot about time. The performance made us feel proud of our culture,” said one student. Another added: “We want to see more such plays in our own language, because they connect directly with us and give us a sense of belonging.”

The play was supported by a dedicated creative and backstage team: Ashish Sharma as Assistant Director, Shivan Gupta on music and sound, Pankaj Sharma on lights, Make-up by Shammi Dhamir, and Props by Neharika, lending their experienced support to the production. Production support was given by Raj Kumar Behrupia, Soham Kashyap, Sumit and Poonam whose efforts greatly contributed to the success of the performance.

The play was witnessed by an impressive gathering of dignitaries including Padma Shri Prof Lalit Mangotra, Khalid Hussain, faculty members, scholars, students and cultural stalwarts, along with eminent personalities from literature, theatre, media and academia, making it a vibrant and memorable cultural event.

Today’s performance was dedicated to the citizens who lost their lives during the recent natural calamities in Chashoti, Kishtwar and Kathua.