PESHAWAR: Noted performers staged a theatre play titled ‘I am Pakistan’ in Nishtar Hall here on Thursday to mark 78th Independence Day that was watched by a large number of people including families, rights activities and students.

The play was staged under the banner of provincial department of culture, tourism, archaeology and museums . Scripted by Batin Farooqi and directed by Khalid Khattak, the theatre play centred on the themes of patriotism, sacrifices of national heroes and cause of national unity.

The artists registered an enchanting impact on participants in the jam-packed hall through impressive dialogue delivery and performance laden with feelings and emotions. Senior artists, who performed in the theatre play, said that Nishtar Hall should be made a place for artists and performers for promoting art and cultural activities.

Dr Abdul Samad, the culture secretary, on the occasion said that local artists and literati could make best use of their talent to serve the cause of national unity, mutual love and social cohesion through their artistic skills.

“We stand united to celebrate our 78th Independence Day with spirit and energy as our forefathers librated this beautiful country for us. People from all walks of life need to play a significant role for shaping the future destiny of Pakistan,” he said.

He said that the play was also meant to encourage local artists and performers to come up with innovative ideas and proposals for reviving cultural activities, highlighting different themes in a positive meaner.

Senior artists including Naushaba, Zulqarnain Haider, Noor Hussain, Tahir Wahab, Abdul Jabbar and a few others performed in the live theatre play.

Khalid Khattak told this scribe that if opportunities were provided, local artists would help in reviving cultural feel in the province. He said that even young artists were most eager to display their talent on such occasions.

Batin Farooqi said that there was no dearth of talent in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, arguing that senior and junior performers remained inactive if platforms were not provided to them so live theatre play should be used as an effective medium for celebrating such national days and events.

Rehana Azmat, a participant, said that she and her family members were impressed by the performance of artists. She added that such activities should be continued.

Published in Dawn, August 15th, 2025