21-day “Awami Theater Festival” organized by Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi has captivated audiences with its engaging performances. On the 14th day of the festival, the play “Taj Tara” was staged, written and directed by H. Iqbal.
The cast included Shabbir Bhatti, Nasira Noor, Ishrat Malik, Ashraf Chiragh, Abdullah Lala, Shahbaz Sanam, Aamir Hokla, Shehzad, and Hussain. The story revolves around Dilawar Khan, a village chief married to his uncle’s daughter, who had a troubled past involving an unfulfilled love and a child born before marriage.
Despite the marriage, she remains distant from Dilawar, instigating her son against him. The son, driven by greed and selfishness, claims his share of his mother’s inheritance and leaves with her. Another subplot features Sultan, Dilawar’s brother, who accidentally causes a worker’s death and struggles with guilt while showing compassion toward the poor. Taj, a caretaker of Dilawar’s horses, falls in love with Tara.
However, complications arise when Dilawar learns of their relationship.
Initially, Tara’s father refuses Dilawar’s proposal but later agrees due to greed. After the marriage, Dilawar divorces Tara and unites her with Taj, highlighting themes of love and sacrifice.
The play received an overwhelming response from the audience, who applauded the actors’ stellar performances.
Awami Theater Festival, running until November 28, offers free entry to the public and continues to be a major highlight of Karachi’s cultural calendar.
