Ali Rehman Khan essays an intersex character in upcoming serial 'Guru'

The Bilawal Hussain Abbasi directorial also stars Zhalay Sarhadi, Hira Khan and Umer Aalam in pivotal roles

It seems like Saim Sadiq’s Joyland has set a trend for stories centred on intersex people. After the Muneeb Butt starrer Sar-e-Rah, director Bilawal Hussain Abbasi is bringing forth a drama titled Guru which sees actor Ali Rehman Khan in the lead role. Following the protagonist in functions and at home, Guru – the story of an intersex, will air on Express Entertainment.

On Saturday, a teaser for Guru was released on the channel’s official Instagram account. The short clip introduces Ali’s character as an intersex person who dances at functions for money. It highlights how the protagonist is living a dual life where there’s cheer and laughter at events but misery in their personal lives. You see Ali’s new avatar in bazaars eyeing kids' toys and then, in a blink, a newborn baby enters the frame.

 

 

 

 

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The teaser hints at a plethora of emotions like pain, anticipation and joy and the suspenseful music only adds to the mystery. Fans are waiting to see how the makers deal with a subject so sensitive and whether the representation will be done right. The release date for the project hasn’t been revealed yet.

The previous teasers for Guru have hinted at highlighting drug abuse, discrimination, and social class system in the drama as well. The drama also stars Zhalay Sarhadi, Hira Khan and Umer Aalam in pivotal roles. 

Shazia, one of the producers for the drama, took to her Instagram to praise Ali for taking on a “challenging” role. “Super proud of my friend Ali Rehman Khan for getting out of his comfort zone and taking on this challenging role. Thank you for breaking barriers with a whole new look, that many would think twice of doing,” she wrote.

 

 

 

 

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Describing the drama as a “riveting story about an intersex,” Shazia added that she can’t wait for people to watch it. She also expressed her gratitude to the channel for picking such an important topic that is otherwise seen as controversial in society.

The Parde Mein Rehne Do actor’s colleagues and friends also took to their social media to praise him for how “brilliant” he looks in the new avatar. Hania Aamir reshared the teaser on her Instagram Story and lauded her “brave, talented friend.” She wrote, “I can’t wait till everyone watches your incredible performance. Wishing major luck to you and the team! Guys, you don’t know what’s coming your way.”

Komal Meer, too, was in awe of Ali’s transformation. “Oh my god, Ali! This is too good. Can’t wait!” she wrote. Ushna Shah was “glad” that Ali “finally chose to do a character role.” While Zara Noor Abbas and Kubra Khan shared how proud they are of Ali for taking on a script so “unusual.”

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