Written by: Hareem Zafar
Posted on: May 15, 2020 | 
Ertugrul Leading His Men into Battle
The popular Turkish TV series, Dirilis Ertugrul (Resurrection Ertugrul), also known as Ertugrul Ghazi in Pakistan, has been making waves on Pakistani media, ever since PTV aired its first Urdu-dubbed episode on the first of Ramadan, to promote friendly relations between Pakistan and Turkey. The internationally acclaimed Turkish drama (also available on Netflix) has received rave reviews globally; it was broadcast in approximately 146 countries and has been dubbed in more than 60 languages.
Breaking popularity records and bringing massive viewership to the channel, the serial has revived PTV’s ratings in the last 15 days. A fascinating depiction of heroic Muslim warriors and their efforts to protect Islam from the onslaught of the Crusaders, Mongols, and the Byzantines, has the audiences hooked and has the show trending no. 1 on YouTube in Pakistan. The channel itself has acquired over 600,000 subscribers and 30 million viewers for the episodes so far.
Created by Mehmet Bozdag and directed by Menit Gunay, this historic action-adventure series is based on the real-life events of 13th century Oghuz Turk nomad leader, Ertugrul of the Kayi tribe. He is also the father of Osman I, founder of the great Ottoman Empire, which lasted for over 600 years in large parts of Europe, Asia, and North Africa. The series spans over 5 seasons, combining personal narratives with the expansions of the ethnic Oghuz Turks.
Ertugrul's Father, Suleyman Shah
Perhaps one of the many reasons for the success of this show is its powerful portrayal of perseverance in the face of adversity, and a unique appreciation for Muslim culture and faith. There is a juxtaposition between spirituality and social customs, and the show pays great emphasis on the importance of humanity and grace during times of war and difficulty. What makes this show so powerful and riveting is its fresh take on the oft-ignored Muslim perspective during the Crusades.
Pakistani audiences, in particularly, have noticed the similarities between Pakistani culture and the Turkish Muslim culture and traditions. For example, one cannot help but notice the similarity between the attire of the female characters of the Kayi tribe and that of Balochi, Chitrali, and Gilgiti women in Pakistan.
Esra Bilgiç as Halima Hatun
The writers have done an incredible job in breathing a new life into Islamic history. The trials and misfortunes of the Turkish tribes at the hands of the power-hungry, Crusaders and unjust Mongols, are exacerbated by the internal need to find a homeland and identity. One cannot help but think of how the events of the 13th century resonate with the current struggles of Muslims all over the world, such as Kashmiri Muslims suffering unjustly in Indian-occupied Kashmir.
Ertugrul's Ally Bamsi
Maybe that’s why Dirilis Ertugrul is not just making waves in the Muslim world, but also Europe and the Americas. This is one of the few instances in recent times that Muslims are depicted not only as successful conquerors but also belonging to a highly evolved civilization.
The protagonist Ertugrul is played by the talented Turkish actor Engin Altan. Ertugrul’s charisma, wisdom, strong leadership skills, excellent swordsmanship, and vision is what has kept the audiences returning to their screens, and rooting for the hero. His performance is bolstered by the equally talented supporting cast, who portray his family, friends, and tribesmen. Ibn Arabi is an important supporting character in Ertugrul’s life as an Andalusian mystic, who serves as his spiritual teacher and guide.
Ertugrul and Ibnu al Arabi
Moreover, the female characters in Ertugrul Ghazi are strong, equally skilled as their male counterparts, talented and possessing a strong work ethic. Women like Hayme Hatun, Aykiz, Halima Hatun, and Selcan are strong pillars of support to their men, and also fight alongside them. They are patient, hardworking and do not hesitate to offer advice regarding matters of business and commerce within the tribe.
Besides the stellar cast, the well-researched and visually aesthetic production has audiences drawing similarities between Dirilis Ertugrul and Game of Thrones. The production scale is as grand as any Hollywood movie, with horses galloping across beautiful landscapes, and violent sword-fighting scenes that transport the viewer into another world. A famous Hollywood stunt team, ‘NOMAD’, was specially hired as consultants for the action sequences, to make them more credible and exciting. In addition, the beautifully dramatic soundtrack serves well to highlight the acting and gripping storylines.
A Fight Scene in Resurrection Ertugrul
For viewers, Ertugrul Ghazi is a depiction of a noble way of life. It shifts perspectives and offers life lessons through drama and action. It teaches viewers the significance of unity, and commitment to serve a greater good. Dirilis Ertugrul shows us the importance of sacrifice and courage for one’s beliefs. And lastly, it warns viewers about the pitfalls of greed and lust for power, which will corrupt not only a leader, but will bring about the decline of a people.
You can see promo:
Promotion for Season 1 of Dirilis Ertugrul (Resurrection Ertugrul)
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