It was an evening like no other—a lively theatrical tribute to the great Urdu humorist Patras Bukhari, a towering name in Urdu literature. This tribute featured adaptations of three of Bukhari’s beloved humorous essays, delivering an experience of unrestrained laughter—a refreshing balm in challenging times.
Patras Bukhari’s essays had been a breath of fresh air during school days, brightening up the otherwise routine Urdu curriculum. His unique use of satire and vividly relatable humor, especially in Patras Kay Mazameen, kept audiences captivated and laughing with every line.
This homage was led by Imran Iftikhar, who selected three memorable essays, “Saweray Jo Kal Aankh Meri Khuli,” “Marhoom Ki Yaad Mein,” and “Mein Aik Mian Hoon,” transforming them into engaging theater pieces. The plays were first performed from 18th to 20th June 2012 at The Farm in Banigala, Theatre Wallay’s creative space. Due to their success, the performances later toured Lahore for the Alhamra Theater Festival on 28th July 2021 and were also staged to a packed house at Bhittai Auditorium on 21st August 2021.
Everywhere they went, the plays struck a nostalgic chord with audiences, evoking memories of school days when Patras’ essays were a cherished part of the Urdu syllabus. Fizza Bangash, a first-time Theatre Wallay attendee, shared her wish that she’d known about TW earlier and regretted not bringing her parents to the show. Another audience member, Rubina BB, mentioned that she hadn’t seen such a delightful play in ages and applauded Theatre Wallay for creating such a memorable performance.
Cast and Crew:
Ahad Ali Siddiqui, Ramil Aftab, Zia Rehman, Adil Yousuf, Usama Ahmad Khan, Saboora Maryam, and Afaq Shamshad. Lighting and sound were expertly handled by Mustafa Hasan, and the plays were directed by Imran Iftikhar.
To read a note from the director, click