India’s enduring curiosity about Pakistan seems unyielding. Recently, Indian media revealed that Indian streaming service SonyLIV has unveiled the cast for its upcoming series, ‘Freedom at Midnight,’ which delves into the Indian subcontinent’s struggle for independence.
According to the report, the series pledges to unearth untold stories and pivotal moments from the era of India and Pakistan’s independence post-partition in 1947.
The spotlight falls on the enigmatic figure of Mohammed Ali Jinnah, Pakistan’s founder, portrayed by actor Arif Zakaria. Zakaria, known for his portrayal of Nehru in the ZEE5 series ‘Hutatma,’ expressed his approach towards portraying Jinnah as a complex character.
The actor intends to delve into the depths of Jinnah’s psyche, unraveling his complexity and motivations. He hopes to present a more genuine and comprehensive portrayal of Jinnah by adopting this approach.
Opposite Zakaria, Ira Dubey, known for her role in the Netflix series ‘Scoop,’ will play the role of Fatima Jinnah, Mohammed Ali Jinnah’s younger sister and close confidante. Dubey emphasized Fatima Jinnah’s pivotal role in her brother’s life, underscoring their dynamic relationship. Following Pakistan’s establishment, Fatima co-founded the Pakistan Women’s Association, significantly contributing to the resettlement of women migrants.
Mohammed Ali Jinnah, who led the All-India Muslim League from 1913 until the formation of Pakistan and served as the new country’s first governor-general until his demise in 1948, shared a deep bond with his sister Fatima. Throughout his political journey, Fatima Jinnah remained a steadfast supporter, aiding in the nation’s early development.
Based on the acclaimed 1975 non-fiction book by Larry Collins and Dominique Lapierre, the series aims to unravel the intricacies of the independence movement, offering viewers a compelling narrative infused with historical insights. With its exploration of pivotal historical figures and their intertwined destinies against the backdrop of India’s struggle for freedom, the series holds the promise of captivating audiences.
Previously, Indian filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali explored Lahore’s walled city for his fictional Netflix series, focusing on the lives of Heeramandi courtesans. While the series sparked debate due to its creative liberties, the impact of the upcoming portrayal of the Jinnah’s on audiences remains to be seen.
