‘An Ode to the Mystic City -- Androon Lahore’ is a new documentary that offers some glimpses into the rich history and culture of the walled city of Lahore in a nostalgic way. Showcased in Islamabad a few weeks ago, the twenty-five minute documentary project focuses on the fascinating Mughal architecture of the old part of Lahore (the cultural capital of Pakistan). It attracted attention and praise of people in the capital, especially foreigners, towards the country’s heritage and culture.

The documentary, produced and directed by Nageen Hyat, takes into account the changes in the routine life of people of the walled city. It also talks about the local and international efforts to protect and restore the dilapidating grand architecture of the walled city. Hyat, a human rights activist with a history of activism for promoting the rich cultural heritage of Pakistan, started Nomad Art Gallery and Cultural Centre around 32 years ago and later began to focus on highlighting culture through documentaries.

This documentary includes the iconic buildings of the walled city like Wazir Khan Mosque, Sunehri Mosque, Lahore Fort, and Badshahi Mosque and talks about the life in and around the historical gates of the city and the evolution of culture amidst inadequate efforts to preserve heritage.

The project is an attraction for history-lovers -- those interested in local culture and socio-economic aspects of the lives of locals. Containing historical references and stories of interest mostly associated with the ‘Shahi Guzargah’ (Royal Trail), it throws light on how the changes have affected the lives of the residents.

The German embassy in Islamabad has also collaborated with this initiative to bring to the forefront the efforts for restoration of some streets and houses of the walled city -- with Germany’s contribution of course.

Hyat’s prime reason for making this documentary film is her personal association with the city and her love for culture. "I wanted to contribute positively to the cultural scene and developing such programmes that help in empowerment of individuals and raising awareness on the many issues affecting lives," she says.

Nageen Hyat, the granddaughter of former political stalwart of Pakistan Movement and Chief Minister of United Punjab, Sir Sikandar Hyat Khan, developed this association with the walled city while frequently going to Badshahi Mosque. She used to go to the mosque with her parents to offer prayers at the grave of her grandfather who is buried near Mazar-e-Iqbal in the mosque premises.

"It is a subject that is close to my heart which I have been rediscovering over the years, having being born and bred in that city. The changes in the inner city have been manifold but the romance lives on," she says. "It also aims at talking about people and how their lives have changed with the passage of time."

She says the documentary has two parts -- one about the character and characteristics of the city and the other about the restoration efforts and focus on awareness about culture and heritage. The documentary was long initially but was later squeezed all in 25 minutes which was a challenge in itself, she adds.

Hyat has produced several documentaries including a 2009 13-episode series titled ‘Shanaakht: Mein Houn Zindagi’ on Pakistan Television focusing on women’s issues. Her fascination with the Northern Areas led her to producing the documentary ‘Rediscovering Greater Chitral -- the Greek influence and Lifestyles of the Kalasha’ with an emphasis on Kalash customs and lifestyles.