Filmmaker Danyal K. Afzal has officially wrapped up production on his much-anticipated historical drama series centered on Fatima Jinnah, offering a fresh perspective on Pakistan’s founding from her point of view. First announced in 2022, the series now moves into the post-production phase.
The show features a powerful ensemble including Usman Mukhtar, Sarmad Khoosat, Kubra Khan, Manzar Sehbai, Samina Ahmed, and Amna Ilyas. In an interview with Images, Afzal explained the emotional and cultural weight behind the project.
The production was shot across 92 colonial-era sites, many inaccessible to the public, adding authenticity and depth to the story. While the release date is still being finalized, potential options include July 31 (Fatima Jinnah’s birth anniversary), July 9 (the day of her passing), and December 25 (Quaid-i-Azam’s birthday). However, Afzal emphasized that the series will premiere in Pakistan first before any international release.
Afzal underscored the importance of portraying historical icons such as Fatima Jinnah, Allama Iqbal, and Muhammad Ali Jinnah as real, complex individuals rather than idealized textbook figures. The series delves into lesser-known aspects of their personal lives, including Fatima Jinnah’s emotional journey, her powerful bond with her brother, and overlooked figures like Rattanbai Petit — Jinnah’s wife — whom Afzal called a “true founding figure of Pakistan.”
Actor Usman Mukhtar, who plays Allama Iqbal, spoke about the responsibility of portraying such a revered figure, especially with limited material available. Relying on family interviews and historical research, he attempted to reflect Iqbal’s spirit and character rather than mimicry.
The series is planned as a three-season saga. Season one will have two volumes, spanning 10 episodes starting from the year 1910. It will cover milestones such as Jinnah’s early political victories, World War I, the Lucknow Pact, and his relationship with Rattanbai. Sundas Farhan will portray the young Fatima Jinnah in the first season, Samiya Mumtaz will take over in season three, while the actress for the middle phase is yet to be announced.
Afzal concluded that the aim of the series is to connect modern audiences with the human side of history, bringing emotional truth to Pakistan’s foundational narrative.
