Theatres and stage actors in Lahore, Gujranwala issued notices for violating govt policies
The Punjab Council of the Arts (PUCAR) and information & culture department have initiated action against female stage actors and theatre managements in Lahore and Gujranwala for alleged violations of government policies, the Punjab Drama Act and standard operating procedure (SOP).
The action was launched on the directives of PUCAR Executive Director Mahboob Alam, following monitoring reports regarding violations during stage performances at various commercial theatres in both cities.
Stage actor Sonia Lal, performing at Shabistan Theatre, was served a show-cause notice, dated Sept 12, for her alleged vulgar dance routines and involvement of the audience during the performance on Sept 11.
Similarly, Nida Chaudhry of Mehfil Theatre was issued a notice on Sept 13 regarding an alleged vulgar dance performance. Her hearing has been fixed for Sept 16.
Khushboo Khan performing at Mehfil Theatre was also served a notice on Sept 13 over alleged obscene actions and exposure during a performance on Sept 12. Her hearing is also scheduled for Sept 16.
Actor Fiza Anand was issued notice on Sept 12 for allegedly continuing her dance performance when an audience member threw money at her at Capri Theatre, Gujranwala, on Sept 11. The theatre management and licence holder have also been served notices for alleged violations.
A notice to them mentions exceeding the prescribed performance timing, while another notice is related to failure to stop the practice of throwing money on the stage and alleged collection of cash. The management has been called for a hearing on Sept 16.
The Punjabi Theatre management as well as the licence holder, Lahore, have been issued a notice for allegedly switching off monitoring cameras during the Sept 11 show.
The Sitara Theatre management and licence holder in Lahore have been served notice for turning off monitoring cameras during the Sept 13 performance. Their hearing has also been fixed for Sept 16.
The arts council has reiterated that strict compliance with the Punjab Drama Act, government policies and prescribed SOP is mandatory for all commercial theatres.
Originally published in Dawn, September 15th, 2026
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