'Humsafar' reportedly heads to Indian stage

In a move that signals a thaw in cultural relations between India and Pakistan, an Indian stage adaptation of the beloved Pakistani drama Humsafar is reportedly in the works. This initiative aims to promote peace and cultural exchange between the neighbouring countries, as confirmed by Indian theatre and film actor Imran Zahid to Indian media outlets.

Zahid revealed that discussions are underway with the original broadcaster of the Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan-starrer Humsafar, for the stage adaptation rights. Indian publication Times Now reported that both parties have agreed in principle to move forward with the project.

This development follows a landmark decision by the Bombay High Court last year, which dismissed a petition seeking to ban Indian citizens, companies, and associations from engaging with Pakistani artists. The court emphasised that such a ban would be a "retrograde step in promoting cultural harmony, unity, and peace," deeming the petition meritless. The decision was further upheld by the Indian Supreme Court, which advised the petitioner to avoid narrow-mindedness, as reported by Scroll.

The announcement of the Humsafar stage production is particularly noteworthy given the history of bans on Pakistani artists in India. Following the Pulwama attacks in 2019, the All Indian Cine Workers Association imposed a total ban on Pakistani actors and artists. Prior to this, in 2016, the Indian Motion Picture Producers Association had also "banned" Pakistani actors, singers, and technicians from working in India due to ongoing political tensions.

The performance is intended to be a goodwill gesture with no monetary gain, as part of efforts to strengthen Indo-Pak relations following the recent judicial rulings. Zahid further told Times Now that a final announcement is expected soon, although details regarding the venue and casting remain under wraps.

The news of the stage adaptation arrives amidst reports of Fawad making a comeback to Bollywood. The Pakistani heartthrob is rumoured to star alongside Vaani Kapoor and make an appearance in Kartik Aaryan's Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, signalling a potential easing of the industry's earlier stances on Pakistani artists.

Humsafar, which originally aired in 2011, is a tale of love, betrayal, and resilience that revolves around Khirad (Mahira) and Ashar (Fawad), whose arranged marriage, initially rooted in familial duty, evolves into a complex relationship fraught with emotional turbulence. Set against the backdrop of societal pressures and familial conflicts, the story explores the highs and lows of their journey as they navigate misunderstandings, manipulations, and the challenges that threaten to tear them apart.