Debate on evolution of film, cinema culture held

LAHORE: THAAP hosted another thought-provoking talk on journey of film here on Saturday.

Punjabi activist & researcher Iqbal Qaiser, who has passed years in collecting information about the journey of film in Pakistan, presented his research findings. The talk highlighted fascinating insights into the evolution of the city's cinematic landscape post-partition.

Iqbal Qaiser also screened a delightful short documentary featuring the well researched information about establishment of film roots in Pakistan, production of first Urdu film Teri Yaad, Industry’s decade wise progression, Urdu and Punjabi language conflict, introduction of progressive ideas and influence of Indian film, impact of marital law etc.

During the talk Iqbal Qaiser also launched his latest book entitled “film tay Lahore”, the first Punjabi book on the history of Pakistan film. The book offered a captivating journey through the evolution of Lahore's cinematic landscape, highlighting its enduring legacy and cultural resonance.

The book provides a comprehensive overview of Lahore's film production studios and the leading personalities who played instrumental roles in establishing foundations of the city's film industry. AR Kardar, known as the pioneer filmmaker, is celebrated for his groundbreaking contributions to Pakistani cinema. M Ismael, Master Ghulam Qadir, and Krishan Laal Mehta are recognised for their respective roles as character artist, fight masters, and studio owners, each contributing to the flourishing of Lahore's film scene. These four persons bowed the seeds of film industry in Pakistan, which later transformed into a big tree and produced many legend artists, evergreen films and music which is still cherished worldwide.

Iqbal Qaiser paid tribute to iconic figures like Madam Noor Jahan, recognising their immense contributions to Pakistani cinema through their exceptional talents and performances. He divided the history of film in five decades 1947 to 1997 onwards and shed light on highlights of each film decade, prominent films and actors, prominent encounters such as Jaal movements, Urdu/Punjabi Language conflict, introduction of cassette and VCR , impact of marital law on film industry etc.

The talk was supported by visually engaging slides featuring film posters, memorable dialogues, and iconic songs, enhancing the audience's understanding and immersion in Lahore's cinematic history.

Iqbal Qaiser hinted that today cinema in Pakistan is struggling because it is no more, mean of entertainment for general public. Large part of population cannot afford to watch the film in multiplex cinemas with their families because of increased prices of tickets etc. Leading personalities from different walks of life attended the talk and shared their memories of film and cinema culture in Pakistan in question answer session.

Prof (retd) Pervaiz Vandal highlighted the challenges facing Punjabi cinema in Pakistan, emphasising the need to protect the Punjabi language as a vital component of the film industry's identity and cultural heritage.

He suggested that a comprehensive plan to safeguard the Punjabi language would not only preserve linguistic diversity but also ensure the resilience and authenticity of Punjabi cinema against external influences.