JAIPUR: At least 24 Pakistani artists in Jaipur for a theatre festival set to stage a play on Wednesday are instead on their way back home.
The artistes of Ajoka Theatre of Lahore were participating in the 15th Theatre Utsav, Bharat Rang Mahotsav, organized by the National School of Drama and ministry of cultural affairs. It began on January 7 and was to conclude on January 17.
Following growing tension between India and Pakistan due to incidents at the border, various organizations including BJP's Yuva Morcha and other activists threatened to disrupt the festival protesting their involvement. To avoid an incident, the organizers cancelled the show. Before there could be any kind of confrontation between the protestors and the artistes, the police quietly took them away from the venue.
Madeeha Gohar, director of the play, said, "It is disappointing. Our theatre group has been performing throughout India with a message of peace. Theatre lovers in India know we come here with a message of harmony...I believe whatever has happened is condemnable. The government of India and Pakistan are playing into the hands of people who don't want the peace process to continue," she said.
"I am shocked as the 26/11 attack in Mumbai was much more serious. I still remember that despite the tension, we had a hassle free stay and went ahead with our performances. New Delhi must probe the entire episode before asking us to leave," she added.
Reacting to the developments, Madeeha, said, "I think governments of both countries are aware of the fact that they have hawkish elements. Thus, for the peace and prosperity of the country they need to keep these elements at bay. Instead, unfortunately, they are trying to put a brake on the activities of artistes and sportsman who can bridge the gap."
"Merely 50 or 60 workers of some party had protested against our play and we were asked to leave. I think this is injustice to thousands of the theatre lovers," she added.
Out of the 24 artistes, 10 were to perform in Jaipur for the first time and were seen quietly loading their bags on to a bus to Delhi.
Curtains for Pak actors at Jaipur fest
This article
Curtains for Pak actors at Jaipur fest
can be opened in url
http://newsobtain.blogspot.com/2013/01/curtains-for-pak-actors-at-jaipur-fest.html
Curtains for Pak actors at Jaipur fest
