(M Waqar) It has been 17 years since the versatile actor Shafi Muhammad Shah left his fans. He acted in more than 50 drama serials and more than 100 dramas in Urdu and Sindhi language broadcasted on various TV channels. Among them are Jungle, Circle, Black Bridge, Marvi, Khelan Ko Mange Chand, Third Edge, Moon Eclipse, Aanch, Band Rose, Circle and Love Dream.
Shafi Mohammad Shah, who was born in Khani Diro area of Nowshahro Feroze district of Sindh, after studying MA in international relations and law from Sindh University, started his practical life by working in an agricultural bank and also started speaking in Radio Pakistan. After some time, he left the bank job and came to Lahore and acted in a film “Kora Kaghar”. He was introduced on PTV but his fame started with the drama serial “Teesra Kanara” which was also produced by Shahzad Khalil.
During his stay in Lahore, Shafi Mohammad Shah also acted in many more films, including Biwi Ho To Esi, Esa Bhi Hota Hai, Naseebon Wali, Ruby, Talash, Meera Insaaf, Alzam and Muskrahat, directed by Shehzad Rafiq, the film “Salakheen”. It was the last film of his artistic career.
Shafi Muhammad Shah used to make every role memorable with his style, voice and acting. Whatever role he played, he played it well. He was also elected as a member of the governing body of Karachi, Pakistan. Apart from this, he also contested the National Assembly election from Karachi in 2002 on the ticket of Pakistan People’s Party. He fought but could not succeed.
For his artistic services, he was awarded the Presidential Award for Best Performance, apart from this, he was also awarded the Best Actor Award by Pakistan Television, while the Government of Pakistan awarded him the Satara Imtiaz posthumously.
This versatile actor died in Karachi on November 17, 2007 after suffering from liver disease and is buried in the Defense Society cemetery, leaving behind four daughters and one son.
How can educators incorporate the study of influential figures like Shafi Muhammad Shah into cultural studies programs?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Dr. Amina Qureshi, Expert in Cultural Studies
Time.news Editor: Good afternoon, everyone! Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Amina Qureshi, a prominent cultural studies expert who has extensively researched the impact of regional arts on societal identity. As we remember the legacy of the late Shafi Muhammad Shah, a beloved figure in Sindhi and Urdu drama, I think it’s pertinent to discuss his contributions and their lasting impact. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Qureshi.
Dr. Qureshi: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to discuss such an influential artist.
Editor: It has been 17 years since Shafi Muhammad Shah left us, yet he continues to resonate with fans across Pakistan. Why do you think his work remains significant to this day?
Dr. Qureshi: Shafi Muhammad Shah was not just an actor; he was a cultural bridge. His performances vibrantly captured the essence of Sindhi and Urdu societies. He acted in over 50 drama serials, telling stories that captured our collective struggles and joys. His versatility allowed him to inhabit a range of characters that audiences could relate to, which is a rare gift in the acting world.
Editor: Absolutely! He was featured in renowned dramas such as “Jungle,” “Marvi,” and “Love Dream.” Could you highlight how these works reflect the cultural and social themes of their times?
Dr. Qureshi: Certainly! For instance, “Marvi” is deeply rooted in Sindhi folklore and highlights themes of sacrifice and love. This drama not only entertains but also educates viewers about cultural heritage and traditional values. In contrast, “Circle” and “Khelan Ko Mange Chand” tackle modern issues, including societal expectations and gender roles, reflecting the evolving landscape of Pakistani society in those era. Shafi’s ability to traverse these themes made his work timeless.
Editor: It’s fascinating how drama serves as a mirror to society. Shafi Muhammad Shah also had a strong educational background, having studied international relations and law. How might his education have informed his acting?
Dr. Qureshi: His academic background gave him a unique perspective, allowing him to approach roles thoughtfully and critically. Actors with such education often understand the nuances of character development and the societal implications of the stories they tell. Shafi’s ability to portray complex emotions and dilemmas may stem from a deeper understanding of human nature and societal dynamics, which his educational pursuits instilled in him.
Editor: With the proliferation of digital media and changing viewing habits, how do you think Shafi’s legacy influences new generations of actors and viewers?
Dr. Qureshi: Shafi Muhammad Shah’s legacy is a testament to the power of storytelling. As new actors emerge, they can learn from his dedication to craftsmanship and his commitment to authentic narratives. In today’s milieu of rapid content consumption, it’s vital to remember such legacies; they remind us of the importance of depth and meaning in entertainment, encouraging new creators to explore and present nuanced stories.
Editor: What do you think can be done to ensure that future audiences remain aware of such influential figures in the arts?
Dr. Qureshi: Preservation of cultural heritage through education is key. Schools and universities should incorporate studies of iconic artists like Shafi Muhammad Shah into their curricula. Additionally, media outlets can create documentaries or retrospectives that celebrate his work, further instilling appreciation in younger audiences. Festivals or workshops highlighting his contributions to drama could be an engaging way to connect the past with the present.
Editor: Those are wonderful suggestions! As we conclude, how do you envision the future of Pakistani drama in the context of what Shafi Muhammad Shah has laid down?
Dr. Qureshi: I believe the future of Pakistani drama is bright as long as we remember our roots. There is a rich tradition of storytelling that can still be embraced alongside modern narratives. If new generations of writers and actors can blend Shafi’s affinity for culture with contemporary themes, we will see a vibrant evolution in our drama industry that stays true to its origins while appealing to a global audience.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Qureshi, for sharing your insights on such an important topic. Shafi Muhammad Shah’s contributions to the arts are indeed invaluable, and it’s wonderful to explore their relevance through conversations like these.
Dr. Qureshi: Thank you for having me! It’s been a pleasure to discuss the significance of such a remarkable figure in our cultural history.