Shaan urges artists to join hands for ‘dharna’

Actor-director asks detractors to also make films, come together in bringing Pakistani cinema back to life

KARACHI: In the absence of Indian films, it is only a matter of time before economic ramifications begin to irk owners of Pakistani cinemas. With not even 20 mainstream releases coming out of the country every year, it is high time our industry begins to prepare for life without Bollywood.

Actor-director Shaan Shahid is among those who have long been advocates of putting Pakistan first and working in the country instead of looking for opportunities elsewhere. Having already voiced his views time and again on the issue, the actor took to Facebook on Friday, urging the artist community to come together for what he calls a “non-political dharna” to protect their rights and bring the film industry back to life. “If you don’t agree with the films we make then make one [yourself]. Come join us,” he wrote in a detailed post.



According to Shaan, these are exciting times for Pakistani cinema. “I’m honoured to have so many fans that have loved my work and allowed me to entertain them for 25 years,” he said, adding that with this respect comes a responsibility. “For me, the only option I have ever had was to show the world the immense talent that Pakistan has. I always focused on building the Pakistani film industry rather than building my own career,” he said, indirectly taking a jibe at Pakistani performers who have made a name for themselves across the border. However, he clarified. “And trust me … I’m not trying to target anybody.”

The Waar actor said he does not expect anyone to follow him and in return, wants the freedom to make his own choices. He urged Pakistani artists to unite in the name of the country. “The film industry needs us right now. Young directors, actors, writers and technicians don’t have to go look for work,” he maintained.

He even gave a formula for working things out. “Every star that Pakistan has produced needs to put 70% of their energies inside Pakistan,” he said. Shaan urged industry bigwigs to start their own production houses and provide a platform to upcoming film-makers who have fresh ideas. He said unity will make their voices and demands heard.

“Be the ambassadors of Pakistani films and ask people to come invest in the industry. Let our films be our biggest export to the world,” he said.

With Pakistan’s first-ever superhero film, Project Ghazi, already in the works, Shaan pointed out that we too can work on the genre. “Let’s make our own version of Zero Dark Thirty,” said the star.

He urged the country’s intellectual elite to come together and rescue our art and culture. The actor also took a concealed dig at ‘social media warriors’, saying that we should share our ideas and come together in real and not just on Facebook. “We need all the help we can get, especially from our stars as you need stars to form a galaxy,” he added.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 15^th, 2016.

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