Mushtaaque Ali Ahmad Khan has been a beacon of Kashmir’s art and culture. His contribution to keeping Kashmiri performing arts alive during the tumultuous 1990s, when militancy was at its peak, speaks volumes about his commitment to preserving the
state’s cultural heritage
In the Kashmir Valley, a land of stunning natural beauty and a complex history, Mushtaaque Ali Ahmad Khan shines as a symbol of hope and creativity for his contribution to art and culture. Khan’s contributions to theatre, broadcasting, filmmaking, and social work have left an indelible mark on the cultural fabric of the region. His journey as an actor and artiste began at a young age, before the 1990s. This was a golden era for the Kashmir Valley—a time when it was a favourite destination for Bollywood film shoots, and its theatre and other art forms were thriving in the harmonious environment.
However, the onset of militancy in the early 1990s brought an abrupt halt to this cultural vibrancy. The Valley, once a thriving hub for the arts, saw its theatres go dark and its stages fall silent. The arts, once celebrated, became stigmatised and viewed with suspicion. Despite these tough times, Khan stood firm as a strong supporter of preserving and promoting Kashmir’s artistic heritage. His contributions to the arts span decades. As an actor, he has performed leading roles in more than 50 plays in multiple languages across India. His work includes over 100 radio plays, features, and series since 1976, showcasing his versatility and dedication to storytelling. Also, he has directed more than 35 plays in Kashmiri and Urdu since 2005, cementing his reputation as a creative force in the theatre world. Despite societal taboos and the risks associated with pursuing art during tumultuous times, Khan remained undeterred. His unwavering commitment to the arts led to the rejuvenation of ACT – A Better Tomorrow (previously known as Actors’ Creative Theatre), a 48-year-old organisation which was almost defunct. The organisation, under the leadership of Khan, became a professional platform for the younger generation of Kashmiris, many of whom were born into an era of conflict and had grown up witnessing violence and bloodshed. ACT provided the youth with an avenue to channel their emotions and aspirations through artistic expression. Today, ACT thrives under Khan’s leadership as its chairman, nurturing talent, and fostering a renewed appreciation of the performing arts.
In addition to his work with ACT, Khan is also the founder and director of the Kashmir World Film Festival (KWFF)—the first such initiative in the region. KWFF has become a significant cultural event, bringing world cinema to Kashmir and providing local filmmakers a platform to showcase their work. Through KWFF, Khan has bridged the gap between Kashmir’s artistic community and the global film industry, fostering collaboration and dialogue. Khan’s dedication to the arts has earned him widespread respect and numerous awards. To date, he has received more than 20 prestigious awards, including the Special Award for Theatre and Filmmaking, which was presented by the Pune-based NGO, Sarhad, and conferred by the former chief minister of Maharashtra, Eknath Shinde, and Lt. Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha. In 2022 he was given the Lifetime Achievement Award and in 2023 the Best Theatre Practitioner of the Year award. He also received the Best Direction Award for his short film Sula Mout that was presented by the J&K Academy of Art, Culture & Languages. He also received the Awaaz Award from former J&K Governor N.N. Vohra for his contributions to theatre, radio, and television.
Beyond his artistic achievements, Khan has held several prominent positions that highlight his leadership and commitment to cultural and social development. He also chairs Aficionado—a society dedicated to social work—and has served as a consultant to the North Zone Cultural Centre (NZCC), Patiala. His role as a member of the sub-advisory Committee for Drama of the J&K Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages further underscores his influence in promoting the arts. On January 26, 2025, he was given the J&K Government Award for his outstanding contributions in the field of performing arts, especially theatre.
Khan’s journey is evidence of the scope of art as a force for resilience and renewal. In a region marked by conflict, he has used his talents to preserve and promote Kashmir’s cultural heritage, offering hope and inspiration to countless individuals. Through his work with ACT, KWFF, and various other initiatives, Khan has not only revived the arts in Kashmir but also paved the way for future generations to explore their creative potential.
Khan is actively engaged in grooming the next generation of Kashmiri artistes
In addition to his work with ACT, Khan is also the founder and director of the Kashmir World Film Festival (KWFF)—the first such initiative in the region. KWFF has become a significant cultural event, bringing world cinema to Kashmir and providing local filmmakers a platform to showcase their work
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