Manasbal,Oct 24: The fifth edition of Jashn-e-Manasbal was celebrated with great enthusiasm at the Open Air Theatre, Manasbal, bringing together prominent poets, writers, theatre personalities, artists and culture enthusiasts to celebrate the rich artistic and cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir.

Organised by Manasbal Dramatics in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) and the Department of Information and Public Relations, Kashmir, the event featured folk music, dance, drama and solo performances that received an enthusiastic response from the audience.
Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani, attended the programme as the Chief Guest, while JKAACL Secretary Harvinder Kaur was the Guest of Honour. Joint Director Information Shahnawaz Bukhari was also present.
Addressing the gathering, Wular and Manasbal Development Authority CEO Ahsan Ul Haq Chesti highlighted ongoing developmental initiatives and stressed the need to develop Manasbal as a major tourist destination after Srinagar.
JKAACL Secretary Harvinder Kaur appreciated Manasbal Dramatics for its contribution to promoting art and culture. She emphasised the importance of organising more cultural programmes, particularly at the Open Air Theatre, and announced schemes aimed at the welfare and betterment of artists.
Chief Guest Nasir Aslam Wani lauded the organisers and called for similar cultural initiatives across Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in rural areas. He said such programmes could help younger generations remain connected to their cultural roots while encouraging positive engagement among youth.
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of literary and theatrical awards recognising distinguished contributions to Kashmiri literature and theatre.
The Niyamatullah Parray Award was presented to renowned poet and writer Fayaz Ahmed Teilgami, while the Lal Mohammad Khan Zakhmi Award was conferred upon noted poet and writer Shehbaz Haakbaari. The Khilat-e-Raheem Padshah (R.A.) was presented to acclaimed poet, playwright and actor Rasheed Gamgeen.
The occasion also witnessed the release of Shafqat, the eighth collection of plays by Rasheed Gamgeen. The book was formally released by Nasir Aslam Wani and Harvinder Kaur.
Manasbal Dramatics has been recognising the contributions of poets, writers and theatre personalities through its annual awards since 2022.
The programme was anchored by Mubashir Riyaz and Rifat Raheem, while renowned theatre writer and director Nisar Naseem delivered the welcome address. Bashir Ahmed Parray presented the vote of thanks.
The gathering celebrated Kashmir’s vibrant cultural traditions and highlighted the importance of preserving its literary and theatrical heritage for future generations.