Trailer: Pak-Turk series on Selahaddin Eyyubi revives the war over Jerusalem

Adnan Siddiqui lifts the curtain on show that is set to release on November 13 on TRT 1

 Trailer for the groundbreaking collaboration between Pakistan and Turkey, Kudüs Fatihi Selahaddin Eyyubi (Saladin: The Conquerer of Jerusalem), is finally out, and it sees a religious war being waged over Jerusalem. 

Adnan Siddiqui unveiled the trailer on his Instagram while discussing the importance of revisiting history from time to time. Lifting the curtain on his production debut with the Turkish series, the actor penned a note in homage of the revered Muslim ruler and founder of the Ayyubid dynasty, who the show is based on.

“It’s important to revisit history from time to time. And so is to follow the path you believe in despite the many naysayers, despite all adversity,” wrote Siddiqui. “Selahaddin Eyubbi, the legendary warrior, offers glorious lessons in courage, indomitable spirit, determination, justice and generosity. The king whose name is etched in golden words, comes alive on your screen on November 13. Meanwhile, a glimpse for you,” he shared.

The trailer kicks off with the question, “What is Jerusalem, his excellency?” before it goes on to show glimpses of a war brewing over the sacred land – quite relatable to the fight over Jerusalem even today. It goes on to show a hero against many, many enemies. “The war is beginning!” a woman yells, followed by a man’s response, “Jerusalem is sacrifice.” Arrows are hurled as warriors fight in a battle across the seas, riding on horses, slaying men. In a parallel frame, bishops are heard rallying for change, flashing a cross. “Jerusalem will be ours, God willing,” their leader says.

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Adnan Siddiqui (@adnansid1)

“You cannot run away from the responsibilities that fate imposes on you. This will be a great secret, Eyyub,” a man tells another as a woman holding a baby carries a death stare in her eyes. “I cannot just sit and do nothing when I see brutality,” a man asserts before fighting in the war himself. “Jerusalem means Selahuddin for me too,” a voice is heard saying. The clip concludes with the prayer, “May all Muslim scholars be united in your shadow. Let all the oppressors be defeated by your sword. May Jerusalem be yours.”

Last week, Uğur Güneş, Adnan Siddiqui, and the other producers unveiled the long-awaited teaser for the historical series, which will chronicle Eyyubi’s capture of Jerusalem in the Crusades.

Previously, Pakistani veteran actors Humayun Saeed and Adnan Siddiqui, along with Dr. Kashif Ansari, Ahmet Faruk Bakacak, and Dr. Junaid Ali Shah, were reported to have joined forces to bring this epic production to the screen. Taking to Instagram to share the teaser, Siddiqui penned an emotional message, stating, "Witness the epic saga of Selahaddin Eyyubi, a true warrior king. Our upcoming period piece invites you to an era of unmatched valor and honor. Brace yourself as history's grandeur unfolds." The caption also extended his heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated team, including Shah, Ansari, Saeed, and the production companies, Ansari-Shah Films and Akli Films, the creative forces behind the much-awaited historical production.

The lead role of Sultan Selahaddin Eyyubi is portrayed by the Turkish actor Uğur Güneş, renowned for his debut in TRT's other famous historical series Diriliş: Ertuğrul in which he played Tugtekin Bey. Selahaddin Eyyubi was filmed on a colossal set, replicating the ancient city of Damascus, sprawling across a vast 200-acre area. This meticulously designed set included recreations of mosques, bustling bazaars, grand palaces, and historic homes.

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