The Manto of our times

January 12, 2025

Sarmad Sehbai’s debut English-language novel, The Blessed Curse, provides readers with an insight into the mindset of a nation wrestling with its contradictions

The Manto of our times


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blend of savage satire and poignant allegory, Sarmad Sehbai’s debut English-language novel, The Blessed Curse, stands as a bold commentary on Pakistan’s socio-political landscape intertwined with the deeply personal struggles of its characters.

Sehbai, a celebrated Urdu poet, playwright and director, brings a rich cultural and literary heritage to his storytelling. The Blessed Curse is a daring exploration of human desires, political machinations, and the absurdities of power. Its audacious narrative is both entertaining and thought-provoking, offering readers a glimpse into the psyche of a nation grappling with its contradictions.

At its core, The Blessed Curse is a ruthless satire that spares no one. Politicians, military commanders, religious leaders and business tycoons; even the common citizen are scrutinised and laid bare. The novel’s protagonist, Nussu, a virgin prostitute, emerges as an unlikely hero. Through her journey, Sehbai explores themes of innocence and corruption, desire and exploitation, highlighting the complexities of human relationships and societal structures.

Sehbai’s use of magical realism adds depth to the narrative, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy. The divine bird, the spiritual pimps and the quest for an ultimate aphrodisiac are not merely fantastical elements but symbolic representations of deeper truths about power, ambition and the human condition. The search for sexual potency becomes a metaphor for Pakistan’s nuclear ambitions and its position in the global political arena, revealing the absurdity and desperation underlying such pursuits.

Written in English, The Blessed Curse retains the flavour of Punjabi humour and celebrates its dark, irreverent and brutally honest tone. Sehbai’s prose is rich and evocative, seamlessly blending the vernacular rhythms of the Punjab with a global literary sensibility. This linguistic fusion creates a unique narrative voice that remains rooted in its cultural context while being accessible to a broader audience.

Sehbai’s narrative challenges the status quo, pushing boundaries and defying conventions. By embracing the subversive, he elevates satire to a sublime art form, wielding it as a tool to expose society’s hypocrisies and absurdities.

The novel delves into themes of power, corruptionand identity, weaving together personal and political narratives. The characters’ quest for an aphrodisiac mirrors their pursuit of control and dominance, both in their personal lives and in the political sphere. Laden with symbolic overtones, this quest reflects Pakistan’s struggles with identity, sovereignty and global relevance.

Sehbai does not shy away from addressing sensitive issues, such as the exploitation of religion for political gain, the erosion of ethical values and the pervasive influence of toxic masculinity. Through his characters, he critiques the moral and spiritual decay of those in power, exposing their greed, hypocrisy and vulnerability.

Nussu, the virgin prostitute, emerges as a compelling and multifaceted character. She embodies both innocence and resilience, serving as a stark counterpoint to the corruption and depravity that define the other characters. Her journey of self-discovery and empowerment underscores the strength and agency of women in the face of adversity.

Sehbai’s use of magical realism adds depth to the narrative, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy. 

Through Nussu, Sehbai challenges societal norms and stereotypes, crafting a nuanced portrayal of femininity and sexuality. Her character resonates deeply with readers, offering a glimmer of hope and humanity amidst the chaos and absurdity of the novel’s world.

While deeply rooted in the cultural and political realities of Pakistan, The Blessed Curse offers a broader commentary on universal themes. Its interplay of power, desire and morality transcends national boundaries, making the novel relevant to readers worldwide. Sehbai’s cosmopolitan sensibilities and rich cultural heritage infuse the narrative with a global perspective, bridging the gap between the local and the universal.

The novel has received acclaim from literary figures and critics alike. Celebrated author Muhammad Hanif has described Sehbai’s audacity and brilliance as unmatched. Mohsin Hamid has highlighted the anticipation surrounding his work. Claire Chambers and Bilal Tanweer have praised its genre-defying narrative and cultural richness. Sean Pue has acknowledged Sehbai’s mastery of language and storytelling, likening him to iconic literary figures such as Manto and Jean Genet.

Sehbai’s debut English novel marks a significant milestone in Pakistani literature, showcasing the richness and diversity of its literary tradition. The Blessed Curse not only reflects the unique cultural and historical context of Pakistan but also contributes to the global literary landscape, offering a fresh and compelling perspective.

Sarmad Sehbai emerges as the Manto of our times, wielding his pen with the same unflinching audacity and penetrating insight. Like Manto, Sehbai ventures into the darkest corners of society, exposing its hypocrisies, absurdities and moral decay. His debut novel mirrors Manto’s fearless storytelling, using satire and symbolism to confront taboo subjects and challenge societal norms. Sehbai’s characters, much like Manto’s, are vivid and flawed, navigating a world fraught with contradictions and corruption.

Both writers share a remarkable ability to intertwine profound cultural critique with deeply human narratives, creating stories that are both rooted in their specific contexts and universally resonant. In Sehbai’s fearless exploration of power, identity and desire, one can hear echoes of Manto’s voice—a voice that remains uncompromising, forever questioning and compelling.

Sarmad Sehbai’s The Blessed Curse is a tour de force of satire, storytelling and cultural critique. With its dark humour, vivid imagery and profound themes, the novel captivates and challenges readers, leaving an indelible impression. Sehbai’s fearless examination of power, desire and identity elevates the narrative, making it essential reading for anyone seeking literature that pushes boundaries and defies conventions.

The Blessed Curse is a bold and unapologetic work of fiction in an era where art often leans toward comfort and conformity. It dares readers to confront uncomfortable truths, question entrenched norms and embrace the subversive power of satire. Sehbai’s debut English novel stands not only as a literary milestone but also as a testament to the enduring role of art in challenging and transformative times.


The Blessed Curse

Author: Sarmad Sehbai

Publisher: Mawenzi House, Canada, 2024

Pages: 272, Paperback

Price: $11.69 – $16.07



The reviewer is a print, broadcast and online journalist associated with Jang Group of Newspapers as Editor, Special Assignments

The Manto of our times