Karachi: The Awami Theatre Festival 2026 at the Arts Council of Pakistan, Karachi, continued to captivate audiences with two theatrical plays staged on the 11th day at Auditorium II. The Memoni-language play "Phanjo Thino Karo" and the Urdu comedy "Rooh" received an overwhelming response, resonating with applause throughout the performances.
According to Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi, the Memoni play "Phanjo Thino Karo," written and directed by Aftab Kamdar, showcased performances by Abdullah Lala, Amir Hokla, Farhan Sharif, Junaid Memon, Mehak Noor, Naeema Garaj, Nasra Noor, Nazar Hussain, Rauf Alam, Sapna Ghazal, Shehbaz Sanam, Talha Bhojani, and Z.A. Mitthu. The play revolves around outdated marriage traditions within a Memon family, challenged by an uncle returning from the United States advocating change and evolving social values. The narrative emphasized respecting a daughter's choice in marriage decisions and highlighted concerns over the younger generation's detachment from the Memoni language, urging the preservation of cultural identity and linguistic heritage.
Meanwhile, the Urdu comedy "Rooh," led by comedian Rauf Lala, won hearts through humor, satire, and social commentary. The cast featured Shakeel Siddiqui, Wali Sheikh, Shanzay, Amir Rambo, Mehak Noor, Sapna Ghazal, Irma Ahmed, Shabbir Bhatti, Abdullah Lala, and Shahzad. The plot involves a young man and woman pretending to be spirits to avoid recognition, leading to humorous and dramatic situations. The play conveyed that fear often stems from the mind, and love, when revealed, emerges as truth.
Both plays not only entertained but also promoted social awareness, reaffirming theatre's role as a medium for cultural expression, reflection, and dialogue.