A storytelling performance rooted in Partition history
The Gujral Foundation will present JASHN-e-QALAM’s Sardaar Ji, a storytelling performance based on a short story by Khwaja Ahmad Abbas, on 28 March 2026 at 6:30 PM. The event will take place at the National Gallery of Modern Art, bringing a literary narrative into a performative format.
Revisiting the trauma of Partition
Performed by Vicky Ahuja, the 60-minute solo act revisits the emotional and political turbulence of India’s Partition in 1947. Through a layered narrative, the performance explores themes of fear, prejudice, and human connection during a time when communities were deeply divided.
A symbolic encounter at the core
At the centre of Sardaar Ji is a tense encounter between a Muslim man living in a Hindu-majority locality and a Sikh adversary. As both characters await a defining moment in history, the narrative unfolds as a reflection on harmony, brotherhood, and peace amid escalating distrust.
Themes that resonate in contemporary times
Written nearly 75 years ago, the story continues to address concerns around communalism, rumour-driven conflict, and the concept of “otherisation.” The performance positions itself as a reminder to question ingrained biases and to reflect on shared humanity.
About the writer Khwaja Ahmad Abbas
Khwaja Ahmad Abbas was a prolific writer, filmmaker, and journalist whose work spanned literature and cinema. A recipient of the Padma Shri, he contributed extensively to Indian parallel cinema and is known for films such as Dharti Ke Lal (1946) and Neecha Nagar (1946), the latter winning the Palme d’Or at the first Cannes Film Festival. Abbas also wrote several films for Raj Kapoor, including Awaara (1951) and Shree 420 (1955), and authored numerous books and journalistic pieces.
About the performer Vicky Ahuja
Vicky Ahuja, associated with Jashn-e-Qalam since its inception, has performed literary adaptations of works by writers such as Premchand and Harishankar Parsai. With a background in theatre in Delhi and Mumbai, he has appeared in over 25 plays and worked with directors including Robin Das and Makarand Deshpande. His film credits include Firaaq and Veer-Zaara, alongside television appearances.
Event highlights
- Solo storytelling performance based on a classic literary text
- Exploration of Partition-era narratives and human relationships
- Adaptation of a short story by Khwaja Ahmad Abbas
- Performance duration of approximately 60 minutes
Venue and visitor information
| Event | Details |
| Title | Sardaar Ji by JASHN-e-QALAM at NGMA, Delhi |
| Artist | Vicky Ahuja |
| Writer | Khwaja Ahmad Abbas |
| Venue | National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), New Delhi |
| City | New Delhi |
| Opening Date | 28 March 2026 |
| Time | 6:30 PM |
| Duration | 60 minutes |
| Organiser | The Gujral Foundation |
The event will be hosted at the National Gallery of Modern Art in New Delhi, a key cultural institution known for showcasing modern and contemporary Indian art. Entry details have not been specified, and attendees are advised to check official channels of The Gujral Foundation for updates.
Organiser and cultural context
The Gujral Foundation has been actively involved in promoting contemporary art and cultural dialogue in India. Its programming often brings together literature, performance, and visual arts, creating platforms for interdisciplinary engagement.
Conclusion
Sardaar Ji brings together literature and performance to revisit a defining moment in Indian history. By foregrounding themes of empathy and coexistence, the production offers audiences an opportunity to reflect on both the past and its continuing relevance in present-day society.
