Srinagar, Feb 15, KNT: Rajinder Tickoo, a prominent Kashmiri theatre artist, actor and producer associated with Network18, has passed away, marking a significant loss to the cultural landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.
Tickoo was widely recognized for his role in reviving Ladishah, Kashmir’s traditional satirical musical storytelling form that had nearly faded into obscurity. Through stage performances and televised broadcasts, he reintroduced the folk art to contemporary audiences, blending humour and satire with sharp commentary on social and political themes.
He gained prominence through his Ladishah performances aired on ETV Urdu, where he appeared in traditional attire including a pheran and turban, often accompanied by the dhukar instrument. His distinctive style and accessible storytelling helped bring renewed attention to a form historically rooted in oral folk expression.
Originally from Martand in Anantnag district, Tickoo had been residing in Jammu. His association with theatre began in 1990, and over the course of more than three decades, he featured in hundreds of stage productions and telefilms. Colleagues described him as a dedicated cultural practitioner whose work bridged traditional folk art and modern media platforms.
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His contributions are widely credited with introducing Ladishah to younger generations and sustaining interest in Kashmir’s indigenous performance traditions. [KNT]
