The Phenomenon of Khuda Ki Basti: A Novel and TV Serial
Introduction
Khuda Ki Basti, written by the late Shaukat Siddiqui, holds a significant place in Pakistani literature and television. This masterpiece was not only the first novel to be translated into 11 languages but also received the prestigious Adamjee Adabi Inaam in 1961, awarded by the Pakistan Writers Guild. Unfortunately, the government later banned the novel, but the ban was lifted in 1968 after the PWG’s strong opposition.
The TV Adaptation and Stellar Cast
In 1969, Shaukat Siddiqui himself dramatized Khuda Ki Basti for PTV-Karachi. The 26-episode series, each lasting 25 minutes, was produced under the direction of Ishrat Ansari and the late Rasheed Umar Thanvi. The panel reviewing each episode included prominent personalities like Faiz Ahmed Faiz, Jamiluddin Aali, Shaukat Siddiqui, and Iftikhar Husain Arif.
The stellar cast of the TV serial included renowned actors such as Zaheen Tahira, Zahoor Ahmed, Qazi Wajid, Zafar Masood, Tauqir Fatima, Qayyum Arif, Shakeel Chughtai, Mahmood Ali, Zafar Siddiqui, Mohammad Yusuf, Arsh e Muneer, Shahji, Shahzad Raza, Andaleeb, Raju Jamil, Iqbal Tareen, Seema, and many others. Their exceptional performances contributed to the tremendous success of Khuda Ki Basti, making it a hit in both India and Pakistan.
Recognition and Awards
The popularity of Khuda Ki Basti led to its well-deserved recognition and numerous accolades. It became the reason behind the first unofficial TV awards held at RIO Cinema in Karachi in late 1969. The serial received critical acclaim and won the hearts of the audience.
The Re-run and the 1974 Version
In 1974, Prime Minister Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto ordered a re-run of Khuda Ki Basti. However, the original 1969 video tape spools had been erased due to the recording of other programs. Consequently, the serial was re-recorded with the majority of the cast reprising their roles, with a few exceptions. Behroze Sabzwari replaced Zafar Masood, Munawwar Sultana replaced the late Tauqir Fatima, and Musarrat Sahafi replaced Tauqir Fatima’s character for continuity. The 1974 version, directed by Qasim Jalali and Bakhtiar Ahmed, is now available on DVD and YouTube.
The Impact of Khuda Ki Basti
Khuda Ki Basti, often referred to as the “Mother of all serials,” captivated the nation. The powerful storyline depicted the struggles of early Pakistan and the challenges faced by the middle and lower-class societies, shedding light on social taboos prevalent in the newly formed country. It left a lasting impact, prompting conversations on every lip and even emptying the streets as viewers were engrossed in its compelling narrative.
A Surprising Discovery
In recent times, a delegation from Bangladesh TV visiting Islamabad surprised PTV officials with unexpected news. They revealed that the 1969 version of Khuda Ki Basti is available with them. Since 1970, when it was sent to PTV Dhaka for telecasting, the serial has been well-preserved. This revelation has reignited interest and excitement among fans of this iconic TV serial.