By Asim Shahzad
LAHORE: As per vision of the Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif to raise awareness on climate issues, and to work for a cleaner and greener Punjab in collaboration with the public, under the leadership of the Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, the Environment Protection and Climate Change Department, is going to present “Dharti Maa,” a meaningful climate awareness theatrical play running from 10 to 16 January 2024, at Alhamra Arts Council, Lahore.
The production is a vital component of the Punjab government’s ongoing efforts to address climate change, aiming to educate, engage, and inspire people to take part in pressing climate issues.
Mr. Raja Jahangir Anwar, Secretary of the Environment Protection and Climate Change Department, expressed his enthusiasm about the initiative by stating that “Climate change is not a distant threat, it is happening now. “Dharti Maa” is a unique artistic creation that intertwines the urgent need for climate action with the rich impact of theatre to ignite public interest”. He added further, “the Government of the Punjab, under visionary leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, is taking all necessary steps to change people’s narrative about climate issues, making them an integral part of this green journey. In this regard, all necessary steps, including this play, are important”.
The play’s narrative is further strengthened by the involvement of top-class artists who have contributed to its storyline. Through impactful and striking visuals, Dharti Maa is going to drive home the vital message that urgent climate actions are needed at both the institutional and public levels.
Similarly, Dr. Imran Hamid Sheikh, Director General, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), remarked that “we are excited to bring “Dharti Maa” to the stage as one of our tangible efforts to address climate change and raise awareness. This play represents the Punjab Government’s unwavering commitment to the urgent actions needed to protect our planet. By educating people and giving them solutions in a more interesting way, we can create better understanding on shared responsibility”.
The play also emphasizes Punjab’s rich cultural heritage, diverse traditions, and folklore. “Dharti Maa” reflects on the deep ties between the planet and its inhabitants and the crucial responsibility to protect it for future generations. Music, dance, and drama will bring these themes to life in an entertaining and thought-provoking way.
As a key leader in climate advocacy, the Government of the Punjab has been working tirelessly to change the standard narrative and harmful climate practices.
Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif believes in collaboration between the public and government in creating a cleaner and greener Punjab. By using the innovative approaches like performing arts, the initiative seeks to build a strong public-government partnership aimed at addressing the challenges of environmental degradation and climate change.
Through “Dharti Maa,” the beauty of Punjab’s legacy is brought to the forefront while pressing on critical environmental and climate issues, coupled with an immediate call for combined actions.
The production is presented in collaboration with Lahore Arts Council (Alhamra), and Wahab Shah Dance Company to feature a dynamic fusion of dance and drama to leave no stone unturned in the government of Punjab’s efforts to gain climate resilience.
