Theatre Wallay recently brought to life Jamun Ka Ped, a satirical play that humorously critiques the complexities and absurdities of bureaucracy. The story revolves around a poet trapped beneath a fallen Jamun tree in the secretariat lawns and the bureaucratic limbo that ensues. Instead of immediate action to rescue him, the situation devolves into a chain of file transfers across government departments—trade, agriculture, horticulture, medicine, culture, forest, and even foreign affairs. Days pass as files move from one desk to another, and by the time the Prime Minister gives approval to remove the tree, the poet has tragically passed away. The play is a powerful commentary on the inhumanity that can stem from rigid systems and administrative red tape.
Deciding to bring this poignant story to the stage, Theatre Wallay entrusted the direction to Ahad Ali Siddiqui, whose vision and talent helped convey the depth of the satire. Audiences appreciated the humor and underlying critique, and the performance received a positive response. A particularly noteworthy element of the production was the casting of Faisal Khan, who was known within the Theatre Wallay community for his work managing The Farm at Banigala, Theatre Wallay’s creative space. With limited formal education and a strong Pakhtoon accent, Faisal was new to the world of theater. Yet his passion was undeniable, and Jamun Ka Ped offered him his first opportunity to perform on stage—a debut met with warmth and encouragement.
The play was performed on 26th and 27th September 2020 at The Farm at Banigala, a serene, creative space curated by Theatre Wallay. With a cast that included talented actors like Usama Ahmad Khan, Ramil Aftab, Ammar Khalid, Faisal Khan, Hamza Athar, Adil Yousuf, Safeer Ullah Khan, and Fizza Hasan, the performance underscored the enduring relevance of satire in holding systems to account. This production not only showcased Theatre Wallay’s commitment to socially relevant theater but also marked a memorable journey for one of its own members in the world of performance.
Jamun Ka Ped was met with enthusiastic applause and appreciation from audiences who resonated deeply with its sharp satire and humorous portrayal of bureaucracy. Viewers lauded the performances, particularly Ahad Ali Siddiqui’s direction, which balanced humor and critique, making the story relatable and thought-provoking. Faisal Khan’s debut was a highlight, as his authentic portrayal brought a fresh and passionate energy to the production. Audiences found the play’s humor both entertaining and reflective, as it cast a mirror on the inefficiencies and absurdities often seen in real-life bureaucratic systems.