MUMBAI: Khuda Ke Liye is set to be the first Pakistani film to invade Indian theatres from 28 March. The film depicts the difficult situation in which Pakistanis, and the Muslims in general, found themselves in after 9/11. The film registered outright success in Pakistan, Dubai and London.
 
The interesting thing about the film, produced and directed by Shoaib Mansoor, is how it connects the happenings in three continents. Unlike the usual Indian and Pakistani films based on romantic sagas, dances and songs, this film is based on some very serious issues, raising a lot of controversial questions engaging the Muslim minds these days. It helps the Muslim youth find a direction.
 
The film’s themes include the role of Muslims in Islam and the balance of Muslim values with moderate Western enlightenment. Khuda Ke Liye (In The Name of God) has Pakistani actors Shaan and Iman Ali in the male and female leads, while India’s Naseeruddin Shah appears in a prominent role of a Muslim cleric.
 
This low-budget film, covering a vast canvas, stresses on the fact that it is more important to be a true Muslim at heart, than to just proclaim your faith by growing a beard, or by keeping your women in a veil (purdah) or wearing a kurta pyjama.
 
Audiences and art critics across Pakistan have loved this film, but the conservative religious clergy has criticized it severely. However, the movie has been well received by overseas Pakistanis.
 
Last year, the film was also screened at the Goa Film Festival and was hugely appreciated. Percept Picture Company is distributing the film in the Indian circles and the music is being released on Sony BMG.