Written by: Bilal Sohail
Posted on: October 24, 2019 | 
| 中文
Shizza Khan as Maira and Erum Navaee as Saira (Photo credits to Ajoka Theatre)
“When there is oppression and dictatorship, by not speaking out, we lose our dignity.” Asma Jahangir (1952 - 2018)
Ajoka Theatre Pakistan paid tribute to a revolutionary figure with a riveting performance at Alhamra Art Center, Lahore. Titled ‘Saira and Maira’, the play is inspired by the life and struggles of Asma Jahangir, the late Human Rights Lawyer & Social Activist. The play was performed on the 19th and 20th of October, for the Asma Jahangir Conference, in collaboration with AGHS Legal Aid Cell. It highlighted the legacy of Pakistan’s first female President of the Supreme Court Bar Association.
“Saira and Maira” is the story of two women, struggling with societal pressure, and the lack of an appropriate legal framework for the protection of women’s rights. Saira wishes to divorce an abusive husband, but cannot do so without her parent’s consent, while Maira married a man against her parent’s wishes. They seek refuge at Seema’s (Asma Jahangir’s Double played by Madeeha Rasheed) Shelter called ‘Agosh’. This center is predominantly run by women, who form a bond because of their suffering, and desire to reject any form of subjugation. Saira and Maira soon find solace in each other’s company, until Saira’s family has her killed ruthlessly. However, this tragedy becomes a driving force for Seema, whose resilience and expertise in formal legislation makes her a successful lawyer, and she is elected as the President of the Supreme Court Bar Association.
Madeeha Rasheed as Seema (Extreme Left) Fighting Saira's Case in Court (Photo Credits to Ajoka Theatre)
The play was written and directed by Shahid Mehmood Nadeem, after extensive research into Jahangir’s life and cases. The stories of Saira (Erum Navaee) and Maira (Shizza Khan) are closely associated with two real cases that Asma Jahangir fought for. All of the actors had never acted before, and Ajoka wanted to cultivate fresh talent on the theatre stage. Ajoka personally worked with Jahangir’s daughters, to capture her essence. This play was also deeply personal to the theatre group as it was a testament to Ajoka’s owner Madeeha Gauhar’s strong friendship with Jahangir.
In an interview with Geo News, Nadeem revealed that the play was inspired by Asma Jahangir’s resilience, and the landmark cases which contributed largely towards the legislation to protect women’s rights in Pakistan. The names of the characters have been changed, and extra details have also been added for dramatic effect. “Saira and Maira” is not just a tribute to Jahangir’s work, but also a celebration of female strength in the face of archaic and restrictive patriarchal customs.
Saira (center) missing her mother at Agosh (Photo Credits to Ajoka Theatre)
Ajoka indeed pulled off a powerful performance as the play meandered through various themes that have plagued our society, ranging from a patriarchal mindset, women’s abuse, sensationalist journalism, domineering guardians, gender discrimination, honor killing, legal challenges and a longstanding political culture of non-cooperation and ignorance.
“Breaking all bonds, look at these sisters marching forward in unison. They will surely rise above the shackles of oppression, and take us into a new era.”
This verse was a prominent part of the theatre score, one popularized by Jahangir during her life. The play was deeply attentive to the unique cultural details of each character, and the music succeeded in engaging the audience. The background music was too loud at times, and could have been better.
Dance Performance (Photo Credits to Ajoka Theatre)
There were also some very minor flaws pertaining to coordination in choreography. However; the splendid dialogue, delivery, character development, accuracy of historical perspective, flawless lighting, effectual use of stage space and props made up for it all.
‘Saira and Maira’ proved to be an intense emotional ride for the audience, with many left in tears. Cast and crew were given a hearty and well-deserved standing ovation towards the end. Asma Jahangir’s family members were also invited on stage to share a few words about the occasion, and they embraced their on-stage counterparts for their excellent performance.
(L to R) Shahid Mehmood Nadeem, Jilani Jahangir, Nirvaan Nadeem, the young Actress who plays Sulema, Sulema Jahangir (Photo Credits to Nirvaan Nadeem)
One can hope that this play would inspire more Pakistani women to carry forward Asma Jahangir’s legacy. Whether this is in the legal realm or onstage, Jahangir’s spirit will live on and thrive. One can watch the play again at Alhamra during Faiz International Festival , which will take place from 15th to 17th November.
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