Tale of resistance against tyranny

LAHORE : Zafar Mahmmud, a retired bureaucrat and author, once again captivates readers with his latest work, Farar. His journey in public service began when he joined the Civil Service, likely influenced by societal expectations or family pressure.

Despite the authority his position offered, Zafar stood apart, consistently rejecting opportunities for personal gain and seeking to break free from the bureaucratic confines - though his resignation requests were often denied by his superiors. From his first posting as assistant commissioner to the education secretary, his dedication continued throughout his career. Later, as Wada chairman, Zafar’s writings on the Kalabagh dam ignited significant debate, especially in Sindh. Post-retirement, he settled in Karachi, dedicating himself to his passion for writing, where his works continue to shed light on critical societal issues. His latest novel Farar offers a compelling and unflinching critique of Pakistan’s societal structure, exposing the deep-seated issues of power, corruption, and exploitation. Though a work of fiction, the novel vividly portrays a world where political and religious elites, epitomised by the feudal landlord Pir Dildar Shah, manipulate the system for personal gain. Shah’s rise to power is a harrowing tale of spiritual and financial exploitation, marked by his manipulation of religious influence and his abuse of innocent girls like Shabnam, whose unwavering loyalty ultimately costs her life.

The novel provides a dark and sombre portrayal of life in rural and semi-rural Pakistan, where societal norms are bent under the weight of greed, lust, and oppression. Shrines are not places of solace, but tools for deception used to maintain the power of the elites over an uneducated and impoverished populace.

Yet, despite the overwhelming corruption, Farar offers a glimmer of hope through a group of young individuals who refuse to accept the status quo. Led by Moona, a courageous young girl, these brave boys and girls - backed by electronic media and NGOs - rise against the forces of tyranny. They embody the novel’s message of resistance and justice, showing that even in the darkest of times, there are those willing to fight for righteousness.

The novel’s climax sees a dramatic clash between good and evil, where the oppressed rise against their oppressors in a final battle for justice. The triumph of the victims over the corrupt elites is a powerful reminder that courage, unity, and truth can ultimately prevail, even against the most entrenched evil.

Farar is more than just a novel; it is a searing commentary on the socio-political realities of Pakistan. Through its well-drawn characters and intense narrative, the book challenges the reader to reflect on the power dynamics that govern society and the resilience needed to combat injustice. It’s a must-read for those interested in stories of courage, resistance, and the quest for justice.