(M Waqar) Whenever Punjabi films are mentioned in Pakistani cinema, the name of Iqbal Hasan will definitely come up, who has ruled the hearts of film fans for years. Today is the 40th anniversary of this famous actor of Punjabi films.
After the establishment of Pakistan, Darpan, Santosh, Sudhir, Akmal, Alauddin, Sawan, Yusuf Khan, Mazhar Shah, Anayat Hussain Bhatti and many other actors were popular in the film industry. In the same period, Iqbal Hassan also entered the film industry. In history, many artists have made a name for themselves by playing the title role of Punjabi films, but the position that Iqbal Hasan got after the release of the film “Sher Khan” is an example.
Iqbal Hasan acted in 285 films during his artistic career, he also worked in a few Urdu films, but the reason for his fame was the regional language films, he was undoubtedly a popular actor in Punjabi films.
When the sting of Iqbal Hasan’s fame started ringing everywhere, director Riaz Ahmed cast him as the hero in his folk tale-based film “Sassi Pannoon” in which his rival, well-known actress Naghama Begum, played the heroine. After ”Sassi Panun”, Iqbal Hasan never looked back and emerged as a successful Punjabi film actor.
Physically, Iqbal Hasan looked like a complete Punjabi ghbaru, he worked with every director of Punjabi films, after 1980 the director of most of Iqbal Hasan’s upcoming films was Younis Malik, he directed Najma, Naghama, Neelu, Asia. , acted as a hero with every prominent actress of her time, including Zamrad, Firdous, Anjaman, Aaliya, Shireen, Rani and Mumtaz.
Iqbal Hasan filled the forgotten character in “Duniya Paisa Di” and Bhola Sajjan in such a way that the moviegoers woke up after seeing that role. He also played the roles beautifully that the moviegoers fell in love with his acting and he was considered as the guarantee of the success of the film.
Iqbal Hassan has played roles like thug, noble, simple, mullah, religious scholar, student, businessman, police officer and rich man. He has worked in hundreds of films and has a long list of successful films. I am Sissi Punnu, Dhi Rani, Hira Moti, Sher Khan, Chan Wariam, Teri Honor, my honor, friend of the country of Punjab, Jhora, Kothe Tapni, young and field, orphan, right love, Sardar, Jira Sain, storm, grandfather teacher, friend and love, savage Gujjar, city of Data, old lion, world money The, Bhola Sajan, Sohna, Danka, Sajawal, Ishq Mera Naam, The earth asks for blood, the last sacrifice, the son of the king, Mirza Jutt, Jutt Gujjar and Nit, Jira Sher, will get revenge for injustice, Jaga and Reshman, Maula Jutt and Noori Nit, Khardmag, two bighas of land, Chan Surma, James Bond Son, today’s Nawab and others are included.
Iqbal Hassan was also a good singer and used to create the magic of sound in private gatherings. His two younger brothers Tanzim Hassan and Salim Hassan were also actors. Tanzim Hassan also appeared as a hero in two or three films. And Iqbal Hasan along with other artists were returning from the shooting of the last scenes of director Haider Chaudhary’s film “Jhora” (which was outside Lahore) that on Ferozpur Road. A passenger van collided with his car and Iqbal Hasan met his true creator on the spot, while Aslam Parvez died after being in a life and death struggle for a few days in the hospital.
Iqbal Hasan worked in forty films at the same time before his death.
What are some of the most iconic films featuring Iqbal Hasan in Punjabi cinema?
Time.news Interview: Celebrating 40 Years of Iqbal Hasan in Punjabi Cinema
Editor: Good evening, and welcome to Time.news. Today, we’re excited to celebrate a monumental moment in Pakistani cinema—the 40th anniversary of one of its most beloved icons, Iqbal Hasan. Joining us is film historian and expert on Pakistani cinema, Dr. Sarah Khan. Welcome, Dr. Khan!
Dr. Khan: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to discuss such a significant figure in our film history.
Editor: Iqbal Hasan has been a formidable presence in Punjabi cinema for decades. What do you think sets him apart from his contemporaries?
Dr. Khan: Iqbal Hasan is truly unique, not only for his acting skills but also for the way he embodied the spirit of Punjabi culture. His roles in films like “Sher Khan” and “Sassi Pannoon” resonated deeply with audiences because he was able to bring authenticity to the characters he portrayed. He represented the Punjabi ghbaru—the strong, relatable male figure who could connect with the audience emotionally.
Editor: That’s interesting! His career spans an impressive 285 films, mostly in Punjabi. In your opinion, why do you think regional language films are so significant in the landscape of Pakistani cinema?
Dr. Khan: Regional films play a crucial role in preserving cultural identity and storytelling traditions. They connect with local audiences in a way that Urdu films often can’t. Iqbal Hasan’s success largely stems from his ability to appeal to the Punjabi-speaking population who saw their lives and struggles reflected in his characters. His performances made the regional cinema a vital pillar of the industry.
Editor: You mentioned “Sassi Pannoon” earlier. How did that film change the trajectory of Iqbal Hasan’s career?
Dr. Khan: “Sassi Pannoon,” directed by Riaz Ahmed, was a turning point for Hasan. It showcased his versatility and established him as a leading man in Punjabi cinema. His chemistry with co-star Naghama Begum was electrifying, and the film’s folk tale essence allowed him to connect with traditional narratives that audiences cherished. After that, he never looked back; he became a household name.
Editor: Iqbal Hasan’s ability to depict a wide range of characters is remarkable as well. What do you think contributed to his diverse roles, from villains to noble figures?
Dr. Khan: It speaks to his immense talent and adaptability as an actor. Iqbal Hasan could portray both complex and simple characters, which made him a favorite among directors. His ability to convincingly play roles like Bhola Sajjan in “Duniya Paisa Di” revitalized those characters and left a lasting impact on viewers. Audiences often looked at him as a guarantee for the film’s success.
Editor: How do you see Iqbal Hasan’s legacy influencing future generations in the industry?
Dr. Khan: His legacy is profound. Iqbal Hasan not only paved the way for regional cinema but also for actors to embrace their roots. Younger actors are inspired by his storytelling approach and dedication to the craft. His work encourages a revival of interest in Punjabi films, and I believe new filmmakers will continue to draw from his experiences and performances.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Khan, for your insights on Iqbal Hasan’s monumental impact on Punjabi cinema. It’s evident that his contributions will continue to resonate for years to come.
Dr. Khan: Thank you! It was a pleasure discussing such an important figure in our film history.
Editor: And that wraps up our celebration of Iqbal Hasan. Here’s to many more years of influential storytelling in Pakistani cinema. Until next time!