Advisor to the Governor, Khurshid Ahmed Ganai, today stressed for promoting and preservation of state’s folk art form including renowned 'Band Pather'.The Advisor was addressing inaugural function of National Folk Play "Aka Nandun" here at Abinav Theater. The event has been sponsored by Union Ministry of Culture.The play 'Aka Nandun' was performed by National Band Theater Wathora, the play unfolds a mythical story of Kashmir that touches the hearts and engages attention of audience till the happy ending.The Advisor lauded the organizers for organizing the event and stressed on organizing more such events in coordination with cultural academy and other concerned agencies.While congratulating, the director and the artists, he expressed that it was high-level performance with all elements of performing art and live performances. He also announced fifty thousand cash award for the artists for their outstanding live performance. Advisor Ganai said that Band Pather is a complete theater and assured all possible support to preserve and promote this heritage art form of the state. He also announced that the theater group will be involved to stage street shows for tourism and cultural promotion outside J&K to attract tourist to the state.
He stressed on promoting the culture of the state along with the tourism and asked the concerned departments to work with zeal and enthusiasm, besides contributing their skill and experiences to preserve and promote the art form.Speaking on the occasion, Natrang Director Balwant Thakur informed that Natrang has already staged the play "Aka Nandun" across the streets of Jammu and Kashmir and has received overwhelming response from the theatre lovers. He also said that there is need of documentation and research in the field of theater, besides preservation of certain folk music instruments.Speaking on the occasion, former Director Information Farooq Renzu Shah said that the people of the state are emotionally connected to this art form. He also congratulated the artists for their outstanding live performance and briefed the audience about the history of the play 'Aka Nandun'.