Ajoka Theatre will stage its acclaimed play ‘Dara’ in the 10th Faiz Festival on February 13 at Alhamra Hall.

The festival is an annual cultural event organised in memory of poet Faiz Ahmed Faiz, celebrating his legacy through literature, theatre, music, and dialogue.

Written by Shahid Nadeem and originally directed by the late Madeeha Gauhar, Dara is among Ajoka’s most significant productions. The play is based on the historical rivalry between Princes Dara Shikoh and Aurangzeb, the sons of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, and explores competing worldviews that influenced the political and intellectual direction of the subcontinent.

The play was also adapted by the National Theatre UK.

Commenting on the performance, Shahid Nadeem said Dara continues to be relevant as it raises questions about power, ideology and tolerance that still shape societies.

Ajoka Theatre also recently staged special performances of its cultural play Lo Phir Basant Aai, marking the return to Lahore of the festival traditionally associated with kites, colours and the arrival of spring.