[1] The group was formed by director, actress and playwright, Madeeha Gauhar at peak of the tensions during the state of emergency under the regime of General Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq.

Ajoka Theatre has not only performed in Pakistan, but has also in the South Asian region, in countries like India, Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka, as well as in Europe and United States of America.

[1][6] The style of Ajoka's performances can be characterised as an elaboration on the oral tradition of Bhand and Nautanki that found a flourishing base in the area that currently overlaps the province of Punjab.

In spite of the ban, non-governmental organisations and women's rights activists had the theatre piece translated into English and staged performances internationally as a sign of support to Ajoka.

[8][9] On 23 August 2008, Alhamra Arts Council hosted the launch of Selected Plays published by Oxford University Press (OUP) and written by Shahid Nadeem with the help of Ajoka.

[10] The book contains seven of his famous plays Teesri Dastak, Barri, Aik Thi Nani, Kala Meda Bhes, Dukhini, Bulha and Burqavaganza.