Lucknow: Cultural organisation Cultural Quest is set to present a poignant dance drama titled ‘Azaad Rooh’, based on the life and legacy of legendary Punjabi poet and writer Amrita Pritam. The performance will be staged on February 28 at 6:30 pm at Sant Gadge Ji Maharaj Auditorium, Gomti Nagar.
Announcing the production at a press conference, noted Kathak exponent and director Surbhi Singh said that ‘Azaad Rooh’ seeks to become a “historic document of pain,” portraying the emotional and literary journey of Amrita Pritam. The dance drama will depict her intense love story with renowned artist and companion Imroz, as well as the deep anguish of the Partition of India, which left an indelible mark on her writings.
The production highlights themes of oppression, communal strife, and the human cost of the India-Pakistan Partition, all of which profoundly shaped Amrita Pritam’s creative voice. Through expressive choreography and narrative storytelling, the performance aims to capture the poet’s fearless spirit, her defiance of societal norms, and her enduring belief in love and humanity.
The organisers have invited prominent dignitaries to grace the occasion, including Laxmi Narayan Chaudhary, Minister for Sugarcane Development; Dayashankar Singh, Transport Minister; and Sushma Kharkwal, Mayor of Lucknow.
The evening will also feature the release of a book on Amrita Pritam and Imroz authored by Sanjay Malhotra Hamnava. In addition, eleven distinguished figures from the field of literature will be honoured with the Amrita Pritam Samman by the organising organization, recognising their significant contributions to literary discourse.
With its blend of classical dance, evocative storytelling, and literary homage, ‘Azaad Rooh’ promises to be a moving tribute to one of India’s most celebrated literary voices—an artist whose words transformed personal pain into timeless poetry.
