I think it was a natural reaction from the ablest of the drama scribe to show his anger on not even been nominated for the best script we have seen for our films in the last five years or so!

But, come on Qamar Sahab! You know this society! This has been happening to the best of our scribes. WZ Ahmed’s film, Roohi was mercilessly censored. Riaz Shahid’s picture, Yeh Amn was slashed as if by a wehshi unleashed! Manto was dragged into the witness box several times. It’s nothing new. But, their vision never died.

Khalilur Rehman Qamar (KRQ) writes gold-rimmed dialogues. You can see that in his serials, and his films. Fortunately, unlike Amjad Islam Amjad and Anwar Maqsood, Qamar’s films are big hits. Even his first film, directed by Usman Pirzada, titled Qarz is still considered a very artistic movie. But, this time his script turned out to be the basis of one of the highest-grossing films, Punjab Nahi Jaungi. After that, if even he is not considered for the best script, then I think he is haq bajanib in his views.

But, I’d still ask Qamar sahab to forget this oversight. Awards are no measure for art. No doubt, it is a symbol for hausla afzai for any fankar. But, a measure of caliber? Nowhere near it, I tell you. In fact, I’d say, don’t go for it, don’t think of it. Believe me, you are better off without this symbol of Globalisation!