Pak-India joint Punjabi film venture discussed

LAHORE:Pakistani film director Masood Butt along with a delegation called on Punjab Minister for Minority Affairs Ramesh Singh Arora and discussed a joint Punjabi film production venture between Pakistan and India at his camp office on Tuesday. The delegation talked about focusing on strengthening the bilateral relations between film industries of both the countries and exploring more collaborative film projects.

The proposal of recreating a classic historical film of the past was proposed by Indian film director Iqbal Dhilon. This film would highlight the roles of Sooja Singh and Nizam Lohar and the storyline would revolve around a freedom fighter. The film would feature collaborative performances from both Pakistani and Indian actors, including Sonam Bajwa, Meeroo Bajwa, Gippy Grewal, and Bino Dhilon.

Masood emphasised the importance of building a strong relationship with the Pakistani film industry and further developing the sector. He said, “My greatest achievement in life was receiving the last song from Madam Noor Jehan, and Sultan Rahi’s film 'Dara Baloch' made me a renowned director in Pakistan.

I have directed a record 93 films in Pakistan, and my wish is to elevate the Pakistani film industry to an industrial level.” The minister spoke about the importance of promoting cultural ties between both the countries. He said Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has vigorously promoted Punjab’s culture. He stressed the promotion of Punjabi language films.

The minister assured full cooperation for the early launch of the joint venture film and expressed his belief that this meeting would be a significant step towards improving cultural relations between the two countries.

Associate Director Rana Ilyas, lyricist Altaf Bajwa, Indian film director Iqbal Dhilon and MPA Ejaz Alam Augustine and Emmanuel Athar were also present on the occasion.