Three Unpublished Stage Plays of Athar Shah Jodi: A Research and Critical Review

Athar Shah Khan, a renowned Pakistani Urdu comedian, poet, actor, and director, began his career at Radio Pakistan Karachi, where he gained recognition and showcased his talent. He later transitioned into drama writing, creating several successful plays for Pakistan Television, many of which he also acted in. Khan’s work extended beyond television, as he also wrote and directed stage plays for Al Hamra Arts Council Lahore, further establishing his creative influence. These stage plays played a significant role in highlighting his unique style and his contribution to the world of theatre. This paper provides a brief review of three of his unpublished stage plays, offering insight into his distinctive storytelling approach and his impact on the theatrical world. References: Irfan Pasha, Dr., "Ya Waftegan": Ataur Shah Khan Jidi, Daily Dunya, Digital Edition, May 9, 2023 (https://dunya.com.pk/index.php/special-edition/2023-05-09/3815) Interview: Abdul Rehman Umer, "Main Hun Ataur Shah Khan Jidi": Hum Sub, Digital Edition, May 14, 2020.(https://www.humsub.com.pk/318342/abdul-rehman-umer-5) Ataur Shah Khan, Bewaqoof, Lahore: Handwritten Manuscript, Collection, Alhamra Arts Council Library, March 18, 1973, p. 51. Ataur Shah Khan, Horn De Kar Pass Karain, Lahore: Handwritten Manuscript, Collection, Alhamra Arts Council Library, October 1978, p. 19. Advertisement, Daily Jang, Lahore: January 1, 1988. Muhammad Naveed, The Role of Alhamra Lahore in the Promotion of Urdu Stage Drama, Unpublished Ph.D. Thesis, Department of Urdu, Government College University, Lahore, 2016, p. 189. Ataur Shah Khan, Andar Aana Mana Hai, Lahore: Handwritten Manuscript, Collection, Alhamra Arts Council Library, 1978, p. 72