In the beautiful valleys of Kashmir, villagers are entertained by a traditional form of folk theatre called ‘Bhand Pather’. Bhand means performer in the local language, while pather refers to a dramatic performance. They are performed in the open around Sufi shrines and Hindu temples by bands that travel from village to village during harvest time.
Bhand Pather traces its origins to medieval times when Kashmir saw many foreign invasions. The plays expressed the people’s feelings of alienation and oppression at the hands of their foreign rulers.
In modern times, the plays are usually satirical or humorous in nature, highlighting social issues. The plots centre on cruel kings, priests and other members of the ruling class who exploit the common man.
A performance begins with the nasal strains of a shehnai-like instrument called swarnai. The musicians play the dhol, nagara and the thalij (cymbals) to the accompaniment of Kashmiri folk songs. Then enter the maskaras or jesters — the main performers who bring the stories to life with their lively routines blending song, dance and acting. In the play, the actors lampoon the tyrannical characters using mimicry and buffoonery and then take on the role of rebels who oppose the oppressor.
A lot of the action is impromptu — the actor may climb onto a tree or the roof of a house at the spur of the moment. Bhand Pather thus spreads inspiring messages of empowerment through simple entertainment.