Pakistan has neglected this platform for years during the tenures of different governments
KARACHI: America, England and other developed countries use cinema to promote social themes, manifestos of their states and awareness about various issues. That is the reason the mindset and ideologies behind their televisions and cinemas are comprised of highly talented and trained professionals. In our country, we can easily find various inexplicable, incongruous and orthodox topics that are firmly based on our ignorance and illiteracy like dowry, honour killing, infanticide, racism, cronyism, corruption and even terrorism. Undoubtedly, these are the real hindrances that halt positive and healthy development and prosperity of any society. Cinema can be utilised strategically to exterminate these social evils and promote social awareness and consciousness. Moreover, people can be persuaded about national integrity, tolerance, women’s rights and about eradication of illiteracy, sectarianism and terrorism. Cinema is an effective instrument to bring reforms in our society by eradicating obscurantism. Cinema can also play a vital role in education, if our movies were based on scientific theories and historical events. Our country is intensely rich in history, art and culture but this wealth of information is not being utilised.
Pakistan has neglected this platform for years during the tenures of different governments. We have only used this medium for the sake of entertainment and commercialisation. Now, though, decrepit and dingy cinema halls have been traded in for slick theatres equipped with modern technology and the promise of a film ‘experience’. People from all walks of life are turning towards cinemas for entertainment, which is a healthy sign for the industry.
In this environment of uncertainty, chaos and fear, cinema is an excellent platform to inform the masses about critical societal issues. Our government must facilitate young producers and directors. Pakistani business tycoons also should invest in our film industry.
Imran Ali Phull
Published in The Express Tribune, October 22nd, 2016.
Like Opinion & Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.
