Srinagar, Oct. 20 -- Noted Kashmiri folk theatre artist Ravice Rashid, popularly known as Rayees Wathori, has been honored with the Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar 2025 in the Folk Theatre category.

The award was given to him for his contribution to Bhand Pather, the traditional folk theatre of Jammu and Kashmir.

The award, instituted by the Sangeet Natak Akademi under the Union Ministry of Culture, recognises Wathori's efforts to preserve and promote Bhand Pather, known for its satire, humour and social commentary.

Wathori received the award from Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat at a ceremony in New Delhi in the presence of senior officials, including Culture Ministry Secretary Vivek Agarwal, Sangeet ...