The arduous 4km journey from Acchabal takes us to the small hamlet called Akhingam .This village which   nestles in the western spurs of mountain range known as Zooni maal is mostly inhabited by the Baghat community with total population of around 820 people.

The most important feature of this village is that it has remained fountainhead of folk theatre activities called Bhand Pather

Bhand Pather

Bhand pather is open air folk theater managed by professional players or minstrels depicting social ills and in equalities of socio-political system.

The Bhand artists of Kashmir form a distinct social group devoted to the profession of singing and acting. These minstrels have mesmerized audience since time immemorial  by depicting  in their dramas ( pather)  various shades  of human emotions which includes   humour  satire, and pathos.

This art form serves not only medium of exploring human emotions but is an act of social consciousness as well.

The tradition of Bhand Pather is popular among the Bhaghats of Akhingaam. Traditionally, folk dances were performed by male dancers dressed up like a female. Nevertheless, according to locals it was due to the efforts of folk theatre stalwart Mohmad Subhan Bhagat that women also ventured in to this field and started participating in numerous folk plays.

This performing art had been bequeathed to the posterity. However over the period of time many valuable elements linked to this art have been irrevocably lost owing to non availability of professional guidance. Consequently folk drama tradition has been partly eclipsed.

In order to imbibe fresh lease of life in this performing art form INTACH J&K Chapter formulated proposal to establish centre of excellence in the shape of performance cum research institute in this village under the centrally sponsored scheme on Rural Tourism.

he skills imparted to the budding folk actors will not only expose them to the innovative styles and techniques of these performing arts but also generate awareness about the rich Kashmiri theatre.