Veteran Pakistani actor and screenwriter Muhammad Ahmed has shared details about a difficult chapter in his writing career. He revealed that his early project, Aurat, led to a ban on writing scripts for Pakistan Television (PTV).
The actor discussed the experience during an appearance on Moneeza Hashmi’s YouTube show, Tum Jo Chaho To Suno. He explained how the project faced criticism because of its bold themes. However, its later success on NTM became a turning point in his professional life.
Muhammad Ahmed is widely recognised for his roles in popular Pakistani dramas. His acting credits include Suno Chanda, Ehd-e-Wafa, Mere Paas Tum Ho, and Kuch Ankahi. He has also contributed to television as a screenwriter.
How ‘Aurat’ Became His First Telefilm
During the conversation, Ahmed recalled writing a stage play for classical dancer and activist Sheema Kirmani. This project came before he entered television writing.
According to Ahmed, Sheema appreciated the script and shared it with Khalid Ahmed. However, Khalid reportedly believed the story presented issues in overly simple terms. He also felt that the script would not work well for television.
Despite these concerns, the script eventually reached producer Ghazanfar Ali. The project later became Muhammad Ahmed’s first telefilm, titled Aurat.
The production addressed subjects that were considered sensitive at the time. Ahmed said PTV viewed the story as too bold for its audience. The broadcaster subsequently issued a notice preventing him from writing scripts for the network in the future.
He also recalled that the telefilm attracted objections from some members of the National Assembly. These reactions created difficulties for the team behind the production.
NTM Success Changed His Writing Career
Despite the controversy, Aurat eventually reached viewers through NTM. Ahmed said the telefilm aired for six consecutive days and received a strong response from audiences.
Its success proved significant for his career. The project helped him gain recognition as a writer and changed the direction of his professional journey.
The experience showed that a production criticised by one broadcaster could still connect with viewers elsewhere. For Ahmed, the response to Aurat became an important milestone in his television writing career.
Sensitive Themes Behind the Story
Ahmed explained that Aurat explored how social pressure could push a woman towards prostitution. The story also touched on halala, a sensitive subject associated with marriage and divorce in Muslim communities.
These themes were considered taboo during that period. The team therefore attempted to present them carefully through the story.
Ahmed also remembered Khalid Ahmed’s reaction after the project created problems with PTV. Khalid was reportedly upset because he had trusted Ahmed with the play. He felt that the project had brought unexpected consequences.
Why Muhammad Ahmed Stepped Away From Writing
Reflecting on his career, Muhammad Ahmed said he has stopped writing television scripts. He explained that he no longer feels able to create the kind of content currently being broadcast.
His remarks offer insight into the challenges he faced during his early years as a writer. They also highlight how Aurat, despite the controversy surrounding it, played an important role in shaping his career.
Today, Ahmed remains known for his acting performances in popular Pakistani television dramas. His recollection of the telefilm also sheds light on the creative restrictions and social sensitivities that writers encountered in the past.
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