Pakistani people love well crafted stories: Engin Altan Düzyatan

The actor, who plays the titular role in 'Diriliş: Ertuğrul' talks about fame, impact the popular Turkish show holds

For a year, the team of Diriliş: Ertuğrul had worked to bring the project to the screen and the actors trained for over nine months for their characters.

It wouldn't have been an easy task. The onscreen portrayal of the historic heroes by the actors has been lauded by Pakistanis and audience around the world.

"When we were filming, we knew from the beginning that it was going to be a memorable series," Engin Altan Düzyatan, who plays the titular character in the popular show, told BBC Asian Network in a recent interview. "However, even this much attention? Even I didn't imagine. We are very grateful."

Who's as obsessed with #Ertugrul as @DJNoreenKhan? 📺

Noreen speaks to lead actor #EnginAltan about the success of the historical Turkish series in Pakistan and around the world

Listen in full on @BBCSounds pic.twitter.com/1IBM6pibZ1

— BBC Asian Network (@bbcasiannetwork) June 25, 2020

Talking about how the fans are now intrigued to visit Turkey after watching the show, Düzyatan shared he knows the positive impact Diriliş: Ertuğrul has had on the country's tourism.

"We know for a fact that Turkish popularity increased after the TV series, which is great news. We are really glad," he continued.

The series has become a huge hit in Pakistan after it has been dubbed in Urdu and is being broadcasted on the state-run channel.

Düzyatan then shared reason on why he thinks the series connects to Pakistani audience so much. "I think both Turkish people and Pakistani people love well-crafted stories. Turkish series are successful at conveying a touching sense of drama to the audience," he said.



Speaking of the qualities Düzyatan admires in the historic hero, he remarked, "I love Ertuğrul Ghazi's vision, strength, purpose in life and all of his values. He is an admirable person. I'm really happy that I could portray his life."

Earlier, the lead actor of the show also expressed gratitude after the show hit 100 million views in 18 days.

Taking to Instagram, the actor wrote in his Insta stories, “I love you, Pakistan. Thank you for watching us, I hope I can come to meet you all one day.”

After breaking the world record for the newest subscribers on YouTube, the Turkish drama Resurrection: Ertugrul has become a major hit in Pakistan and its producer is ready to take steps for a co-production.

PHOTO: NETFLIX

Mehmet Bozdag, who is also the screenwriter of the drama, said Muslims should not only work together in politics and trade but also in culture and the arts.

“I am surprised that we did not make any collaborations till this day because we call each other brother countries,” said Bozdag, referring to Turkey and Pakistan. “However, we have never signed a deal in the field of culture and arts. So then where is the fellowship?”

Bozdag said there should be joint projects where producers and actors come together.

Have something to add to the story? Share it in the comments below.