Limited time offer: Pakistanis can now watch banned film ‘Zindagi Tamasha’ for $50

There is finally some good news for Pakistani fans desperately waiting to watch Sarmad Khoosat’s banned film Zindagi Tamasha online – however, it comes with a price. Khoosat Films and Southasia Peace Action Network (Sapan) have collaborated to present the internationally acclaimed film Zindagi Tamasha for all those who donate to the organisation through a special fundraiser. This opportunity is a limited-time offer and is only valid from July 21 to 23.

“We are thrilled that the multi-talented actor, director, and producer Sarmad Khoosat has made his Zindagi Tamasha available to Sapan donors. He will also join donors at an online discussion along with the lovely, talented Samiya Mumtaz, who plays the film’s lead female role,” read a post by Sapan on Instagram on Thursday.

To participate in this unique cinematic experience, individuals are encouraged to donate $50 (PKR 14,000) or more by Thursday, July 20. In return, they will receive an exclusive link to watch Zindagi Tamasha from July 21-23 at their convenience. This limited-time offering ensures that the film, previously banned in Pakistan, can now reach its rightful audience.

For those eager to engage in meaningful conversations with the filmmaker and the lead actor, Sapan has a special opportunity. By donating $100 (PKR 28,000) or more by the same deadline, donors will not only gain access to the film but will also receive an invitation to join an online discussion with the talented Sarmad Khoosat and the lead actor, Samiya Mumtaz.

The discussion will be hosted by poet Dr Arvinder Chamak in Amritsar, creating a platform for dialogue and understanding between individuals from both sides of the border. This exclusive event is scheduled for Sunday, July 23 2023, at 10:30 am ET, 7:30 pm in Pakistan, 8pm in India, and 8:30 pm in Bangladesh.

Sapan's initiative aims to create a platform for dialogue and cultural exchange while celebrating the artistic achievements of filmmakers like Sarmad. The fundraiser allows people to watch the much-anticipated movie and encourages peace activism across South Asia. To watch 'Zindagi Tamasha' and support this noble cause, interested individuals can visit Sapan's website at www.southasiapeace.com.

Zindagi Tamasha stars actors Arif Hassan, Samiya Mumtaz, Eman Suleman, and Ali Kureshi. It revolves around a respected real estate agent in Lahore, a devout Muslim who writes and composes 'naat' (hymns praising the Prophet) and cares deeply for his bedridden wife, who is the only one who truly understands him. However, his life takes a tumultuous turn after a video of him dancing at a friend's son's wedding goes viral on social media, leading to ostracisation from neighbours and friends. The film provides a nuanced and heartbreaking depiction of the challenges faced in a conservative society, as the elderly man embarks on a soul-searching journey to reclaim his identity.

Despite being Pakistan's entry for the Oscars in 2021 and receiving multiple awards, Zindagi Tamasha was banned in the country due to protests by conservative factions. Sarmad has earned widespread acclaim for his feature films Joyland, Kamli, Zindagi Tamasha, and Manto, as well as for hit Pakistani television dramas like Humsafar and Shehr-e-Zaat.

“His work has established him as one of South Asia's finest filmmakers, and Sapan is immensely grateful to him for his generous contribution of time and thoughts to this noble cause,” Sapan’s website read. Sapan, a coalition of peace activists, is paving the way towards soft borders and visa-on-arrival arrangements for South Asians. Their ultimate goal is to facilitate freedom of trade, travel, and tourism, especially between India and Pakistan.