GCU Dramatics Club Revives Classical Tragedy With 'Rustom-o-Sohrab'
Government College University (GCU) Dramatics Club has revived the classical tragedy Rustom-o-Sohrab as its 135th annual play, continuing the historic theatrical tradition of the institution.
Directed by Umer Darr, Rustom-o-Sohrab was staged at the university’s Bukhari Auditorium. Based on Ferdowsi’s Persian epic Shahnameh, the Urdu classic explores themes of love, duty, destiny, and the tragic conflict of blood ties through Agha Kashmiri’s poetic script.
The production attracted capacity audiences over four consecutive nights, featuring a 40-member student cast presenting the complex narrative. The large-scale staging also included a live horse on stage to enhance the epic setting.
Designed and executed by students and faculty under the guidance of senior alumni, the production’s lighting, costumes, sets, and props showcased exceptional craftsmanship.
Ahmad Mughal played Rustom, Umar Farooq portrayed Sohrab, and Saira Iftikhar took on the role of Tehmina, while other members of the student ensemble performed supporting roles.
A number of eminent Old Ravians attended the performance and praised the production, noting that the GCU Dramatics Club continued to uphold the institution’s intellectual and cultural traditions.
Speaking at the event, Vice Chancellor Prof. Omer Chaudhry stated that theatre is a critical intellectual pursuit and staging a complex tragedy requires courage and discipline. He commended the students for bringing classical literature to life and demonstrated GCU’s contribution to art, culture, and creative expression.
A special performance of the play for university faculty is scheduled for Monday.