Celebrated Pakistani playwright and satirist Anwar Maqsood doesn’t think twice about offending powerful people, whether they are politicians, sportsmen or social commentators. In fact, it almost looks like he takes pride in failing to top a popularity contest judged by Pakistan’s privileged. He just wants the ordinary people in his native country to root for his searing honesty.
On March 23, he puts that theory to the test as he takes a swipe at the relentless talk shows that appear in various Pakistani television channels with his play entitled Anwar Maqsood Ka Dharna (Anwar Maqsood’s Protest), which will be staged at Madinat Theatre in Souq Madinat Jumeriah at 9.30pm. There will be repeat shows until March 26.
“My 90-minute play shows political leaders, ministers and the commentators who appear on those messy TV shows every morning and evening and talk nonsense,” said Maqsood in an interview with tabloid!.
“These same politicians, the same people, appear on a daily basis on multiple channels and make dishonest comments every day. There’s only false talk and false promises being made. How long should we put up with that? My hope is that after people watch my show they will refuse to watch any more of these talk shows,” said Maqsoo, speaking in a mixture of Urdu, Hindi and English.
Often described by the press as a master of political satire and humour, the 80-year-old playwright has often received death threats for his controversial plays that touch upon Pakistan’s socio-political situation. He has also dabbled in television for many decades for shows including Studio Dhai and Studio Ponayteen.
“In the last 50 years, I have written against every government in power and my work has been banned several times. For instance, if there are 26 episodes of a TV show that I am supposed to write, there’s a ban or a boycott after the 12th episode... I write only the truth. Remember if you write lies, you need to remember those lies for a lifetime. I jut can’t do that. I write for the people of Pakistan and beyond.”
The play has been put together by KopyKats production, a theatre group.
“My plays Pawney 14 August and Sawa 14 August changed the history of theatre. This is my fifth play with KopyKats and the average age is mid-twenties. They work hard and they rehearse for six months and they protect the sanctity of my writing,” said Maqsood.
Anwar Maqsood Ka Dharna has enjoyed 188 performances so far in Pakistan. But that’s not to say it didn’t come with its share of problems. Getting permission to stage the play in State-owned auditoriums was impossible due to its political incorrect and far from diplomatic slant, claims Maqsood.
“I touch upon every issue plaguing Pakistan. Our burning issues such as health, foreign policy and the money that politicians make, find a voice in my play... But let me tell that you that I can give up my life for my art and craft. The people of Pakistan should just love me for my honesty. I saw that love when we staged [the play] in Pakistan. The auditorium could only accommodate 400 people, but there were at least 800 people who turned up. They were sitting on the stairs in between the rows of seats to watch my play. That was heartening,” said Maqsood.
It’s not just plays that excite Maqsood. Soon, he’s going to venture into writing a script for a film.
“It’s my first film as a scriptwriter. It’s a comedy for Pakistani singer Shehzad Roy. From India, I got a few offers but I tell them that Hindustan has enough writers — so there’s no need for me to get involved. And honestly, I don’t think I will be able to pull off an item song,” said Maqsood with a laugh.
While the acclaimed playwright renowned for his scathing critique of those in power has garnered positive reviews all his life, he will always remember his first harsh review.
“Some 40 years ago I had done a play about Julius Caeser. There was a headline the next day in a news daily that read: ‘The murder of Julius Ceaser’, It still makes me smile, But mostly, I write from my heart and that is appreciated.” said Maqsood.
Don’t Miss It
What: Anwar Maqsood Ka Dharna
When: March 23 to 26
Where: Madinat Theatre, Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai
Cost: Dh250, Dh350 and Dh500
Website: madinattheatre.com
