In a bold blend of ancient storytelling and cutting-edge technology, Pakistani theatre collective Mauj has staged an AI-powered adaptation of the Hindu epic Ramayana at the Karachi Arts Council, earning widespread praise for its innovation, cultural sensitivity, and artistic depth.
Directed by Yoheshwar Karera, the weekend performance marked a significant moment for regional theatre, utilizing artificial intelligence to enrich the stage production. AI-generated visuals, dynamic lighting, and immersive sound design brought the centuries-old tale to life in a way rarely seen on South Asian stages.
“This was a visual and emotional experience,” said Karera. “Bringing Ramayana to a Pakistani stage also signals a quiet but powerful shift toward cultural openness – something often overlooked.”
The production was met with critical acclaim. Theatre critic Omair Alavi lauded the performance for its faithful storytelling, intricate costumes, and richly detailed sets. “The lighting, live musical score, and visual narrative all worked in harmony,” Alavi said, calling it a landmark moment for Pakistani performing arts.
Rana Kazmi, producer of Mauj and lead actor in the role of Sita, described the experience as “creatively fulfilling,” emphasizing how technology helped reimagine key moments in ways that deeply resonated with audiences.
“It was inspiring to reinterpret the Ramayana as a modern theatrical piece,” Kazmi said. “The response from the audience was overwhelmingly positive.”
The staging of such a culturally significant Hindu text in Pakistan’s Sindh province, especially with the aid of AI, represents a step forward in fostering regional cultural dialogue. Karera noted that the production was met with curiosity and appreciation, not backlash.
Mauj’s Ramayana not only pushed the boundaries of theatrical production through AI, but also reflected Pakistan’s growing embrace of diverse narratives and artistic freedom, signalling a new chapter in the country’s evolving cultural landscape.
Audiences took to social media to praise the initiative, calling it a “historic moment” for Pakistani theatre. Many applauded the inclusive spirit of the performance and its respectful portrayal of a sacred text. Viewers also highlighted the seamless integration of technology, describing the visuals as “breathtaking” and “cinematic.”
