From TV to cinemas: ‘Pyas will make for a great film script'

Asghar Nadeem Syed gives green signal to Javed Akhtar

LAHORE: During a recent trip to Mumbai, renowned Pakistani playwright Asghar Nadeem Syed was approached by Indian lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar for turning his PTV drama Pyas into a film.

A few months later, Syed has okayed the idea and development of the script is already under way. Talking to The Express Tribune, he said, “I think Pyas will make for a great film script. I have been contacted a number of times in the past for several dramas of mine but with Akhtar things are different,” Syed said. Calling the Indian writer a great friend, Syed said he has granted permission for the adaptation and feels there are not many who can do a better job than Akhtar.

The Nusrat Thakur directorial ran on PTV long ago, focusing on the culture of land ownership and feudalism. “Although I wrote it a while ago, it is still relevant for many areas. Pyas had done really well back then and I hope it will do the same as a film.”

Part of the original cast, actor Javed Kodu said Pyas was a trendsetter and turned many actors into stars of the industry. “Even Sohail Ahmed and I got recognition after Pyas. I am glad to hear that they are making it into a film.” The actor said a lot of the drama’s success has to do with the abilities of Thakur.

Actors such as Tahira Wasti, Nighat Butt, Abid Ali, Mahboob Alam, Masood Alam and Afzal Ahmad were also part of the hit TV drama.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 28^th, 2016.

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