Hindi Play “Malik Kamaal Naukar Dhamaal” staged at Abhinav Theatre
Jammu, 21 June 2025 – As part of its ongoing Saptahik Rangdhara Weekly Theatre Series, the Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages today staged the Hindi play “Malik Kamaal Naukar Dhamaal” at the Abhinav Theatre, Jammu. The play was written and directed by Shashi Bhushan Sharma and presented under the banner of Society for Environment Education and Modern Arts (SEEMA).
Dr. Javaid Rahi, Divisional Head, JKAACL, Jammu, presented a memento to the performing group and lauded their powerful and engaging performance. He appreciated the creative direction, strong satire, and seamless coordination displayed by the cast and crew, stating that such productions reflect the vibrant pulse of contemporary theatre in the region.
The play “Malik Kamaal Naukar Dhamaal” presents a satirical take on the moral dilemmas and hidden hypocrisies of modern society. Through the mystical character of Malik, who uses a machine to judge and possibly fulfill people’s dreams after listening to their confessions, the play explores the contrast between human deeds and aspirations. Characters from diverse walks of life, such as a gay youth, a transgender person, a Karyana store owner, a dancer, a lawyer, a joker, an Arab Sheikh, a baba and his chela, and others approach Malik, only to have their true selves revealed.
The play featured spirited performances by Tushar Sharma as Totla, Sahil Singh Rajput as Nahinashi Gay/Chaila, Umesh Kumar as Chemist, Neha Sharma as Monika the dancer, Diya Parihar as Banto/Aurat, Kamakshya Dogra as Pushi, Abdul Jungbahadur Khan as Nandu Naukar, Irfana Bano Mir as Kinnar/Hijra, and Shazi Khan in multiple roles including a Kashmiri, Baba, Habibi Sheikh, and Joker. The dance sequences were energetically performed by Ravika, Rozy, Miksha, Sukriti, Sheetal, and Purvi Kalsi.
The technical and backstage crew played a vital role in the play’s success. Lighting was handled by Pankaj Sharma, music by Lokesh and Ridhima Kalsi, sets and properties by Seema Dogra, and costumes by Neha Sharma. The choreography was jointly designed by Umesh Kumar and Sushant Singh Rajput. Production management was ably carried out by Sahil Singh and Tushar Sharma, with Shazi Khan as the spot boy, and Irfana Bano Mir assisting in direction. Rakesh Dogra and Ajay Baba managed the backstage operations, while Team NDKM looked after the hall management.
The audience responded with appreciation and enthusiasm, applauding the thought-provoking theme, lively performances, and smooth execution. The presentation stood out for its social relevance, humor, and the strong message conveyed through artistic storytelling.
