Associated News Bureau

Kashmiri Theatre Artist Rayees Wathori Receives National Award for Preserving Bhand Pather

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 19: Kashmiri theatre artist and cultural activist Ravice Rashid, popularly known by his stage name Rayees Wathori, has been conferred the prestigious Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar 2025 in the Folk Theatre category for his contribution to Bhand Pather, the traditional folk theatre of Jammu and Kashmir. The award was presented by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat at a ceremony in New Delhi, recognising Wathori’s efforts to preserve and promote Kashmir’s distinctive theatrical tradition. Instituted by the Sangeet Natak Akademi under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, the Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar honours young artistes for their contributions to various fields of performing arts. Bhand Pather is a traditional Kashmiri folk theatre form known for its distinctive blend of satire, humour, music and social commentary. Rooted in the region’s cultural traditions, it has long served as a medium of artistic expression and a reflection of society. The award ceremony was attended by Vivek Agarwal, Secretary, Ministry of Culture; Dr Sandhya Purecha, Chairman of the Sangeet Natak Akademi; Anwar Khan Manganiyar, Vice-Chairman; and Raju Das, Secretary of the Akademi, besides other eminent artists, cultural activists and distinguished guests. Through his sustained engagement with folk theatre, Wathori has contributed to the continuity of Kashmir’s traditional performing arts and their transmission to future generations. His recognition at the national level highlights the cultural significance of Bhand Pather and brings renewed attention to Jammu and Kashmir’s rich theatrical heritage. ANB