Iran, Pakistan to Co-Produce Global Film on Allama Iqbal
DID Press: Cultural officials from Iran and Pakistan are moving forward with plans to co-produce an international film about the life and philosophy of renowned Muslim poet and thinker Allama Muhammad Iqbal. The project aims to introduce Iqbal’s life, ideas, and universal message to audiences worldwide.
At a reception hosted by the Iranian Consulate in Lahore, Azmi Bukhari, Punjab’s Minister of Information and Culture, said the two countries could soon collaborate on a major feature film about Iqbal. He announced the finalized design for the “Punjab Film City” project, noting that a proposal for Iranian collaboration would be submitted to the Film City committee shortly.
Bukhari emphasized the enthusiasm of Pakistani producers for a high-quality production, adding that Iran’s experience in cinematic production could significantly enhance the project’s global reach. He also invited Iranian investors to participate in other cultural and commercial initiatives in Punjab, including establishing Iranian carpet centers.
Dr. Ahmad Norouzi, Director of International Affairs at Iran’s Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), welcomed the collaboration and suggested that a delegation of Pakistani filmmakers visit “Iran Film City” to share expertise in cinematic infrastructure. IRIB also expressed readiness to cooperate in Quran recitation competitions and other cultural projects.
At the federal level, similar discussions are underway. Recently, Pakistan’s Federal Minister of Information, Attaullah Tarar, met with Iranian media officials to discuss producing a bilingual Urdu-Persian drama series on Iqbal. Five memoranda of understanding on media exchange, technical support, and training were reportedly signed during the meeting.
According to Pakistan’s APP news agency, the goal of these initiatives is to highlight Iqbal’s spiritual and intellectual impact on the Muslim world while showcasing the shared cultural heritage of the two nations.
The project is part of Pakistan’s broader plans to celebrate Iqbal’s 150th birth anniversary in 2027, which will include a feature film, television series, and international cultural events in collaboration with Iran.
Cultural experts suggest the collaboration could mark a new chapter in Iran-Pakistan relations. They argue that a film about Iqbal will not only revive his philosophy of self-awareness and unity but also serve as a bridge between languages, nations, and shared Islamic heritage.
Following the success of other international co-productions such as the “Saladin” series (Turkey’s TRT and Pakistan’s HUM TV), the Iran-Pakistan “Iqbal Film” has the potential to become a symbol of cultural unity and cinematic dialogue in the Muslim world, where poetry is brought to life and philosophy to motion.