Ajoka Institute marked the successful completion of its Art of Writing course with An Evening of Dramatic Readings at the Punjab Institute of Language, Art & Culture (PILAC), held in collaboration with PILAC. The event brought together writers, theatre practitioners, and literature enthusiasts to celebrate new voices in contemporary dramatic writing.
A certificate distribution ceremony was also held during the event. Eminent writer Faryal Ali Gauhar distributed certificates to successful Art of Writing students Humera Bano, Nazish Zafar, Wardah Ali, Nusrat Hassan, Asif Jahania, Hassan Tirmazi, and Iman Ali. Students who supported the programme as readers included Ahmad Raza, Bareeze, Dildar, Ghanaya Ali, and Fizza Tirmazi, whose readings added energy and expression to the presentations.
The evening featured original dramatic works by emerging writers, including Bukal De Vich Chor by Nazish Zafar, Yadon Ki Patari by Wardah Ali, and Maasi Daran by Humera Bano. The readings reflected strong social awareness and emotional depth, highlighting the promise and confidence of a new generation of playwrights.
Reflecting on her experience, writing student Wardah Ali said:
“Ajoka didn’t just teach me how to cultivate my thoughts and ideas into meaningful, impactful stories. It was much more than that. It gave me another family, new friends, fresh perspectives, deeper knowledge, increased my love for literature, and the confidence to continue my journey as a writer — along with the chance to hear others’ stories and share our own.”
Ajoka Institute’s Art of Writing programme continues to support emerging writers through structured creative training and mentorship under Ajoka’s Executive Director and veteran playwright Shahid Nadeem. The success of An Evening of Dramatic Readings reaffirmed Ajoka’s commitment to promoting contemporary dramatic literature and providing platforms for diverse and emerging voices in Pakistani theatre.
