The classic Urdu novel Khuda Ki Basti ( خداکی بستی ) is considered by many to be one of Urdu literature’s most influential novels. Scripted by Shaukat Siddiqui, this social tale is about a troubled family. The novel portrays Pakistani society after independence in a bitter light.
This novel was adapted into a TV series by Pakistan Television (PTV) in its early days. Translations of the book have been published in 11 major languages, including English, under the name Khuda Ki Basti.
Shaukat Siddiqui(شوکت صدیقی)was a Pakistani journalist and novelist. As a refugee, Shukat migrated from Lucknow to Karachi, Pakistan.
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Khuda Ki Basti Novel’s Summary
PTV dramatized the book twice, and it is considered one of their most successful drama productions. Viewers requested that this serial be telecast again and again. Until recently, it was one of my favorite shows. Former Pakistani Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto enjoyed this drama very much. Private television networks are now trying to remake it.
The Story And Characters Of This Novel
In the story, there are several main characters such as Raja, Shami, and Nosha. The teenagers all come from low-income families. The owner of Nosha’s motor workshop often steals from the shop to make a little extra money. The two of them live in an abandoned building where Raja works as a bagger. Shami’s father owns a small shop. Occasionally, he sits in his father’s shop. Whatever it takes to make some money, they will do.
It takes place in Karachi, Pakistan’s biggest city. The family is poor, unemployed, and homeless. They have struggled all their lives, but all in vain. Their problems are the fault of corruption, according to the author. The government and the country and its government didn’t run the system well.
A parallel group of characters felt that it was their duty to end poverty and educate people living in slums in their nation. An organization was formed to accomplish the goal. They gradually realized that unless they have power, they can’t make any progress. Thus, they voted in the elections. However, people always think about themselves instead of the welfare of the deprived, so things don’t always proceed as planned.
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Conclusion
To wrap up, Khuda Ki Basti stands out as one of the most impactful Urdu novels for its raw depiction of the harsh realities of post-independence Pakistani society. Through the lens of the struggling family at the story’s core, Siddiqui exposes ingrained issues like class divides, disenfranchisement and inequality.
The novel presents an unflinching critique of systemic societal failures that trap the underprivileged in endless cycles of poverty and hopelessness. Yet Siddiqui balances this bleak portrait with the resilience of human bonds, as exemplified through the teenage friendships.
With its universal themes conveyed through an authentic Pakistani setting, Khuda Ki Basti novel continues to resonate profoundly with readers locally and globally. Widely adapted for television and translated extensively, this masterwork cemented Shaukat Siddiqui’s reputation as one of Urdu literature’s most outstanding novelists.
