Red light: Film shoots stalled due to Ramazan

LAHORE: While many films have already wrapped post-production and are awaiting the Eidul Fitr festival weekend to hit screens, a number of local films have been stalled in Lahore following the start of Ramazan. Thanks to rising temperatures, film-makers have been forced to sit still and push releases back.

Moammar Rana’s Sikander is the first film to hit the rocks. In the midst of being shot in Lahore, the director decided to halt the filming and resume activities after Ramazan. Lollywood veteran Syed Noor was also shooting for his upcoming film at Evernew Studios and was forced to pack up. Asif Sheikh commenced the shooting of his project, Uff Ye Saalyian, a couple of days ago, but he too, backslid his decision.

Film-maker Pervaiz Rana had also earmarked Eidul Fitr for his filmFaisla Gujjer Da. However, he realised this was never going to work out. When approached, he had different reasons to give.

“My team is not a part of this Eidul Fitr race. I stopped the shooting of my film because it is not possible for it to happen during Ramazan. Often it happens that films that are scheduled to be released on Eid continue shooting, while others are halted,” he said, adding, “I did not continue the filming of my project because I prefer to take rest at home and not risk my health.”

While too many films already lining up at the box office might have put Pervaiz off, many film-makers are also facing an uphill task getting actors to follow schedules during the holy month. “After returning to Pakistan, I was busy performing in theatre and also performed in other cities of Punjab but during this holy month I will not do any work. I stop working completely in Ramazan. I will now perform in Eidul Fitr shows only,” said stage actor Nargis.

On the other hand, it seems nothing has slowed down Pashto films as currently a number of movies are being shot in the northern areas of the country.

Ramazan festivity also slows down activity at movie theatres that have already been padlocked for the duration of the month. Many cinema-owners are making use of the opportunity and renovating their theatres, readying them for Eid.

Nevertheless, it is pertinent to mention that two Lahore-based productions, Blind Love and Sawaal 700 Crore Dollar Ka are among the movies that will battle it out on the approaching festival.