Humsafar, the classic 2011 show starring Fawad and Mahira Khan, is all set to be adapted for the Indian stage. But Pakistanis aren’t too convinced about this effort to promote cultural harmony between the two nations, arguing that it really “won’t work without Fawad Khan”.
Indian theatre actor Imran Zahid confirmed the news to Times Now, stating that the adaption is being undertaken to “promote Indo-Pak peace following recent decisions by the Indian High Court and Supreme Court”. Mahesh Bhatt will be producing it.
However, talks for stage adaptation rights are still underway with HUM TV, the network behind the original drama. “We are currently in discussions with Momina Duraid, the creative head of HUM TV and CEO of MD Productions, who also happens to be the creator of Humsafar,” Zahid said.
Humsafar tells the story of Khirad (Mahira Khan) and Asher (Fawad Khan), a couple from different socio-economic backgrounds who must find common ground after being forced into marriage. It became one of HUM TV’s most successful projects, garnering unmatched TRPs as well as international acclaim. It was telecast on the Zee Zindagi channel in India in 2017, and streamed on Netflix from 2016 to 2021.
As of now, both the Indian and Pakistani sides have tentatively agreed to move forward with the project. And in a gesture underscoring the spirit of peace and cooperation, the play will be performed free of charge.
Sultana Siddiqui, the founder and president of HUM TV and Momina’s mother-in-law, is also involved in the discussions. Zahid has indicated that the final details, including the venue and cast, are yet to be confirmed. He hopes to make a formal announcement soon, though.
“It is a kind of an initiative from Mahesh Bhatt and Momina Duraid to continue the art and culture exchange between the two nations. This exchange has been stuck for a while now and I believe this is one small step towards restarting this,” Zahid was quoted as saying.
‘Don’t destroy Humsafar’
Pakistanis are not too pleased with the news of a repackaged avatar of Humsafar.
“The best way to ensure destroying the beauty and essence of Humsafar is leaving it at the hands of Mahesh Bhatt”, an X user wrote.
Another one was convinced that the reiteration would be incomplete without Fawad. “The only reason why Humsafar worked is because Fawad played Ashar. No other actor can do justice to this role”, the user wrote.
Meanwhile, another person called Humsafar Pakistan’s version of Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995) that Bhatt would destroy.
“Why does Mahesh Bhatt want to ruin it? So many other ways to foster cultural unity, no? Don’t ruin our Mahira in black suit visuals for life.”
I m not ready of GhappaGhappasafar Instead of my HUMSAFAR!!!!!
..
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Mahesh bhaatttt u better not mess with my show 😭 pic.twitter.com/NmZ8IXqjsa
— Copper🌼 (@Mnzindalashhun) September 5, 2024
Also read: Pakistanis offended by queer love in Fawad Khan show Barzakh. Director says ‘don’t watch it’
The year of India-Pakistan collabs
This announcement comes at a time when Fawad Khan is making headlines for his return to Bollywood, reportedly set to star in an upcoming project with actor Vaani Kapoor.
This initiative also comes on the heels of a significant legal victory in India, which supports cultural exchanges between India and Pakistan despite past restrictions.
The Bombay High Court’s recent dismissal of a petition seeking a ban on Indian engagement with Pakistani artists has paved the way for this cultural collaboration.
In October 2023, Justice Sunil B Shukre and Justice Firdosh P Pooniwalla of the Bombay High Court criticised a petition seeking a complete ban on Pakistani artists as a “retrograde step in promoting cultural harmony, unity, and peace”. The Bombay High Court sided with cross-border cultural exchange, dismissing the plea for “lacking merit”.
The 2021 reopening of the Kartarpur Sahib corridor facilitated cross-border artistic collaboration. The Karachi-based hip hop duo, Young Stunners, for one, are set to perform in India in December. Earlier this year, director Asim Abbasi collaborated with Zindagi for Barzakh, which was released this year in July.
(Edited by Zoya Bhatti)