There was a time when Pakistani movies presented social and psychological issues of Pakistani society. Simplicity and strength of the issues diminished the social hierarchy. Rich and poor both were fond of Pakistani movies.
Pakistani cinema has been a victim of decline since long. Movies that can be considered perfect amalgamation of entertainment and innovative, meaningful concept scarcely emerge. It does not mean that the situation of Pakistani movies have always been same. Pakistani movies of 60’s and 70’s are still considered everlasting pieces of cinematography. In the olden times, going to cinema and watching Pakistani movies was considered a positive source entertainment. Pakistani movies presented social and psychological issues of Pakistani society. Simplicity and strength of the issues diminished the social hierarchy. Rich and poor both were fond of Pakistani movies.
Pakistani Film industry consisted of some of the most excellent artists who were master in their works. Directors like W.Z.Ahmad, Hasan Tariq, Anwar Kamal Pasha, Nazeer Saab, Luqman Saab, S. Suleman and many many more gems. Old Pakistani films, having substantial concepts were adorned with stunning beauties such as Sabeeha Khanum, Noor Jahan, Shamim Ara, Deeba, Zeba. Neelo and later on Shabnum, Babera Shareef. Pakistani film industry made considerable contribution in music industry as well because of music directors like Khuwaja Khursheed Anwar, Rasheed Attre, Master Inayat Hussain, Feroze Nizami, A. Hameed and Nisar bazmi. These were the shining stars of Pakistani film industry. They utilized their expertise in their own separate fields and raised the stature of Pakistani films.
Old Pakistani movies, whether Punjabi or Urdu were not mere entertainment. They reflected Pakistani society and enabled the audience to empathize with the characters. Movies like Waada (1957), Dosti (1971), Armaan (1966) which received six Nigaar Awards, Heera aur Pathar (1964) first film of Pakistan’s Chocolate hero Waheed Muraad are some of the legendary films. Though these movies were black and white but they successfully convey their essence to the audience. Dil aur Duniya (1971) was another superhit movie which was the amalgamation of three languages Punjabi, Hindko and Urdu. It was a splendidly successful experiment.
No matter how much we progress in the field of music, it is impossible to ignore the proficiency of our old artists. Their masterpieces still touch our hearts with the same delicacy. Singers like Noor Jahan, Mehdi Hassan, Reshma, Ahmed Rushdi, Runa Laila and Musarrat Nazir are our real assets. “Akelay na jana humain chor k tum” “Koko korina” “Aye mausam rangeelay suhanay” “jub tere shehar se guzarta hoon” such songs still sedate us in a heavenly rhythmic way. One can’t help singing the tune along. Pakistani film industry achieved self reliance and prosperity very slowly but then a time came in 60’s and 70’s that it proudly and successfully competed with quality films of Indian film industry, matching them in all departments of cinematography. Unfortunately, the dazzle of Indian movies has made us so blind that we have stopped to value our treasure.
