'Naql-e-Makani': Tale of prejudice, social stigma comes alive in Karachi

Rajinder Singh Bedi's celebrated play Naql-e-Makani has been revived at Studio II of the Arts Council Karachi, offering audiences a powerful reminder of how fear, gossip and social judgement can shape people's lives.

Presented as part of the SOVAPA Alumni Series, the 60-minute Urdu production received an enthusiastic response from theatre lovers, who praised its compelling storytelling and strong performances.

Directed by Farhan Ahsan, with Aayan Aamir serving as assistant director, the play stars Alaiza Javed as Azra and Adil Shakir as Nafees in the lead roles. The supporting cast includes Hamza Ranjha, Sheriyar Anwar, Bharat Kumar, Hassan Malik, Aayan Aamir and Daniyal Naeem, whose performances add emotional depth to the production.

Set in Delhi in 1945, Naql-e-Makani follows a middle-class family that finally fulfils its dream of finding a home after years of hardship. Their joy is short-lived when they learn that the house was previously occupied by a woman considered to be of ill repute, a revelation made by a local paan seller.

As rumours begin to spread and an intoxicated stranger unexpectedly appears at the house, the family's confidence quickly turns into fear. Concerned about public perception and the damage that social stigma could inflict on their reputation, they decide to abandon the home they had struggled so hard to secure.

Through this simple yet deeply affecting narrative, Bedi examines the destructive power of prejudice, gossip and society's obsession with honour. The play raises questions about whether dignity and reputation can become more valuable than the security of having a place to call home.

The production concluded to warm applause, with audiences commending the cast and creative team for bringing one of Rajinder Singh Bedi's enduring literary works to the stage with sensitivity and emotional authenticity. The revival has been widely regarded as another memorable addition to the SOVAPA Alumni Series.