Ajoka Stages ‘Yeh Auratein Kahan Gaeen’ at NCA Triennale 2025

By Dr Ansab Ali – Lahore, Pakistan

LAHORE: Ajoka Theatre captivated audiences at the NCA Triennale 2025 with a powerful performance of its new play ‘Yeh Auratein Kahan Gaeen’, staged at the Shakir Ali Auditorium. The fictional narrative imagines a society where women suddenly disappear, prompting reflection on gender roles, visibility, and the consequences of systemic suppression.

The performance was part of the Triennale commemorating 150 years of NCA’s evolution from the Mayo School of Art to a premier institution of creative arts. The event marks NCA’s first international platform dedicated to contemporary artistic expression and cultural dialogue.

Nirvaan Nadeem, Director of Ajoka Institute, said the performance held special significance:
“Ajoka has always used theatre to spark dialogue, and this play reflects the very conversations that platforms like the Triennale are meant to inspire.”

The audience responded warmly, marking a memorable conclusion to the theatre segment of the Triennale.

Ajoka’s ‘Lawrence in Lahore’ Applauded at Princeton University

Ajoka’s acclaimed play ‘Lawrence in Lahore’ also made waves internationally, receiving prolonged applause during a performed reading at Princeton University on 19 November. The play explores the activities of British spy T.E. Lawrence in Lahore, shedding light on the complex role of imperial espionage in regions like South Asia and the Middle East.

The reading, directed by Ajoka’s Shahid Nadeem, featured Princeton students and faculty members, including Professor Nadera Shalhoub, Fouzia Farooqi, Eemaan Siddiqui, and Maithili Patel.

Professor Shamus Khan from the Gender and Sexuality Studies program introduced Shahid Nadeem, praising his contributions to South Asian and global theatre. A post-performance discussion highlighted the destabilizing role played by imperial spies in colonized regions.

Co-written by Shahid Nadeem and Professor Fawzia Afzal Khan, the play was earlier staged in Lahore this year.

During his week-long visit to Princeton, Shahid Nadeem also delivered a talk at the Princeton Public Library and attended a dinner reception hosted by philanthropist Imran Shah.