Director Adnan Sarwar’s biopic on the life of boxer Hussain Shah left audiences emotional as it debuted on Independence Day.
The premiere of Shah, first-time director Adnan Sarwar’s tribute to Pakistani boxer Hussain Shah, was an emotional night that gave audiences an opportunity to salute the sportsman who brought home Pakistan’s only boxing Olympic medal but failed to earn the country’s appreciation.
“Adnan bhai has given me a new life,” the down-to-earth Shah spoke to the media at the red carpet. The boxer, who now lives in Japan, had been flown in especially for the film’s premiere and seemed overwhelmed by the warmth and affection that people treated him with. From interviews with the media to selfies with fans and chats with sports enthusiasts who had fond memories of Shah’s 1988 Seoul Olympic triumph, there was a constant throng of people
surrounding him. Adnan Sarwar’s aim to acknowledge the boxer for his contributions seemed to have been completely realized.
“I implore the men, women, and children of Pakistan to come and watch this movie so that it gives them the passion to do something similar for the country. In fact, I hope they can achieve something even bigger than what I did,” Shah was vocal in his support for Pakistan and seemed to bear no resentment for the way he had been sidelined following his historic win.
“This is just an overwhelmingly emotional moment for me as a Pakistani,” said model Nooray Bhatti. “This chance to salute a forgotten hero and that too, on Independence Day. A brilliant movie by Adnan Sarwar.”
Her opinion was seconded by the majority of the people present. “I hope lots of kids see this film because they should know that great people like Hussain Shah are a product of this nation. The younger generation doesn’t get to see many positive things about Pakistan these days and here is a story of exemplary courage and patriotism. Shah might have waited over two decades to be recognized but just look at the respect he is being showered with now,” said photographer Faisal Farooqui.
Shah is the story about Hussain’s rise from the streets of Lyari in Karachi, his struggle to realize his passion of becoming a boxer despite living in abject poverty, his moment of glory in the Olympics and finally, his heartbreak at the indifference shown by the authorities. The screening ended with the entire hall erupting in thunderous applause and both Adnan and Hussain Shah were unable to hold back their tears at the overwhelming response.
