Ajoka Theatre Announces Its First Feature Film, ‘Bali Jatti’, Based on a Folk Actress’s Life

LAHORE: Pakistan’s well-known Ajoka Theatre has stepped into the world of cinema after decades of service to the theatre sector. Ajoka Productions has announced the making of its first feature film, based on the life and struggle of Bali Jatti, a celebrated Punjabi folk theatre performer.

A logo, teaser and a song from the film were unveiled at a ceremony held in Lahore. The story will reflect the cultural environment of Punjab in the 1970s, folk music, theatre traditions and the golden era of Punjabi theatre.

Shahid Nadeem, founder and executive director of Ajoka Theatre, is the writer, researcher and director of the film. The film will highlight various aspects of the life of Bali Jatti, whose real name was Inayat Bibi.

The film will show how Inayat Bibi began her career as a singer despite opposition from her family and society, and later became a prominent figure in folk theatre. The story will also include her artistic struggle, personal relationships, professional rivalries and the challenges she faced in life.

Addressing the ceremony, Shahid Nadeem said the aim of making the film was to introduce the extraordinary life of an important figure in the history of Punjab’s folk theatre to the new generation and wider audiences through cinema.

Renowned folk singer Arif Lohar praised Ajoka’s initiative, saying the film would help revive memories of the golden era of Punjabi folk theatre, associated with artists such as Bali Jatti and Alam Lohar.

Dr Fauzia Saeed, former Director General of the Pakistan National Council of the Arts, spoke about her research on Bali Jatti and stressed the importance of preserving her life and artistic contributions.

Among those who attended the ceremony were folk artist Abbas Jat, photographer and stylist Khawar Riaz, Aslam Shahid, Director General of the Punjab Institute of Language, Art and Culture, fashion designer Mehmood Bhatti, Nirwan Nadeem, Director of the Ajoka Institute, Zara Salman, Chairperson of Ajoka, and television producer Mohsin Jafar, along with other personalities.

Casting for the film is ongoing, and shooting will take place in Lahore and its surroundings. The production is targeted for completion by March.

The film will initially be released in cinemas across Pakistan, followed by international screenings and presentation on OTT platforms.