After a long two-year wait, Pakistani cinema’s biggest film, ‘The Legend of Maula Jatt’, starring Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan, is finally gearing up for its release in India. The film, which took the Pakistani box office by storm, had been caught in a political and legal whirlwind that delayed its arrival in its neighboring country. The wait is nearly over, and Indian audiences are eager to see this 2-hour-and-33-minute cinematic marvel that has already made waves worldwide.
A Historic Blockbuster from Pakistan
Released in Pakistan on 12 October 2022, The Legend of Maula Jatt stands as the most expensive film ever made in Pakistan, with a budget of Rs 70 crore (Pakistani Rupees). Directed by Bilal Lashari, the film was a labor of love that took almost a decade to complete. Lashari, alongside Nasir Adeeb, crafted a compelling screenplay that would bring to life a tale of heroism and revenge, set against the backdrop of rural Punjab.
The film stars the biggest names in Pakistani cinema, including Fawad Khan, Mahira Khan, Hamza Ali Abbasi, Humaima Malik, and Shafqat Cheema. The ensemble cast, coupled with spectacular visuals and high production values, made The Legend of Maula Jatt a massive success both critically and commercially.
A Grand Release Across the World, But a Long Wait for India
Despite being a smashing success in Pakistan and other countries, the film’s release in India was delayed for two years. The film grossed over Rs 400 crore worldwide, showcasing its massive appeal. Released on more than 500 screens across 25 countries, including the UK, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Malaysia, The Legend of Maula Jatt became a true global hit. Its first weekend alone brought in Rs 51 crore (Pakistani Rupees).
In contrast to its global reception, Indian cinema halls were left waiting. Zee Studios, which acquired the distribution rights for India, initially planned to release the film in December 2022, primarily in Delhi and Punjab. However, political tensions and objections from groups like the MNS (Maharashtra Navnirman Sena) postponed the release. A spokesperson for Inox Cinemas confirmed at the time that the film’s release had been “postponed indefinitely,” without any clear explanation from the distributors.
Legal and Political Hurdles Delayed the Release
The challenges faced by The Legend of Maula Jatt were not limited to its release in India. The film itself had a long and troubled journey before even hitting cinemas in Pakistan. Initially slated for a 2019 release, the film ran into a legal battle with the producer of the original 1979 film ‘Maula Jatt’, Sarwar Bhatti. Bhatti filed a copyright infringement case against the producers of the new version, claiming that the reboot infringed on his rights. The court case dragged on for nearly two years.
Even after the legal dispute was settled, the COVID-19 pandemic threw another wrench in the works. With theaters closed worldwide, the film’s release was postponed once again. Finally, after several delays, The Legend of Maula Jatt premiered in October 2022, becoming one of Pakistan’s most successful films ever.
The Story That Captivated Millions
At its core, ‘The Legend of Maula Jatt’ is a retelling of the classic 1979 Pakistani film ‘Maula Jatt’, which itself was a cultural phenomenon. Directed by Yunus Malik, the original film was a gritty tale of vengeance and feuds in rural Punjab. The new version, while honoring the original, brought a fresh and modernized approach to the story.
The plot revolves around the fierce rivalry between Maula Jatt (played by Fawad Khan) and Noori Natt (portrayed by Hamza Ali Abbasi). This epic enmity between two warriors forms the crux of the film. While the story has its roots in traditional folk tales, it’s been reimagined for a modern audience, with dazzling action sequences, deep character arcs, and stunning cinematography.
Anticipation Grows as India Awaits the Release
With its impending release in India, expectations are high. Given the film’s massive success in other countries, there is hope that Indian audiences will embrace ‘The Legend of Maula Jatt’ just as passionately. Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan, both popular faces in India due to their work in Bollywood, have further fueled excitement for the film’s release. Indian cinema lovers have been waiting eagerly to watch this high-budget, action-packed drama on the big screen.
With only a few days left before its official release, The Legend of Maula Jatt is poised to make a mark in Indian cinemas. Will it repeat its record-breaking success here? All eyes are on this epic saga to see if it lives up to the hype in India.
