Minister Fayyazul Hasan Chohan calls for more plays highlighting patriotism

Play on late soldier Maqbool Hussain to be showcased from November 1, 2018 to November 7 2018

LAHORE: Lahore's Alhamra Hall has played host to numerous plays based on renowned personalities in the past. This time, it will feature a stage drama on the life story and patriotism of late Pakistani soldier Maqbool Hussain famous as sipahi Maqbool Hussain.

The play, organised by the Lahore Arts Council as per special instructions from Punjab's Information and Culture Minister Fayyazul Hasan Chohan, will be showcased from November 3, 2018 to November 10, 2018.

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Writer Asghar Nadeem Syed has penned the script for the play titled sipahi Maqbool Hussain, while famed actor Rashad Mahmood will be depicting the role of Hussain. “I have performed various roles in my career, both in film and on TV. However, playing the role of an extremely loyal soldier like sipahi Maqbool Hussain is not easy," Mahmood told The Express Tribune. 

He continued, "We have been rehearsing for one month and I chose to stop all my other projects so I can focus on this and give my best. I studied the life story of sipahi Maqbool Hussain and tried to depict the same emotions, sentiments, patriotism and love for the soil." Mahmood went on to state that Hussain's story is a great example of bravery. He requests the public to join them at Alhamra Hall to watch the performance and honour the deceased soldier.

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Hussain was arrested by the Indian army in Kashmir during the 1965 war and was kept in prison where he was brutally tortured. His time in prison saw Hussain chant "Pakistan Zindabad" endlessly until his tongue was cut off. After that, he came to be known as one of the bravest soldiers of all time.

He was handed over to Pakistani officials in 2005 but by then, he was severely unstable both, physically and mentally. After his return, Hussain was honoured by the Pakistani Army who recognised him as an example of true bravery and patriotism.

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The renowned soldier passed away in August 2018 and many have paid tribute to him and his life, taking it upon themselves to honour him in more ways than one. Chohan is one such individual who actively engaged in the promotion of more nationlist entertainment activities. The first of many of these revolutionary steps include his instructions for the revival of more patriotic plays - suggesting the council to begin with the depiction of Hussain's story.

Helmed by president and artistic director of Maas Foundation Amir Nawaz, the play features Perviz Raza, Sarfraz Raza, Azra Aftab, Zaheer Taaj and Tahseen Khan in important roles. "For me this play is very special," stated Nawaz. "The patriotism and love for the country will really be shown through this performance. Myself and the Maas Foundation team have been working on this project for over a month and it has been more than just an experience. We find ourselves to be refreshed and have a new found love for Pakistan."

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He continued, "We have laughed and we cried during this one month during  all the rehearsals. In my view, this play will highlight not only the life of Pakistani soldiers but how much one can sacrifice for this nation."

Lahore Arts Council has sent special invitations to the public. Before the first show begins, a special ceremony will be held featuring Chohan.

Edited by Ramsha Vistro.

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