Armaan

Armaan, released in 1966, is an iconic Pakistani Urdu black-and-white film, directed by Pervez Malik, and produced by the heartthrobbing actor of the time, Waheed Murad. The film stars Waheed Murad himself, along with Zeba, and exhibits a distinct touch of cinema that was well-received by the audience of the time.

Armaan’s storyline serves as a beautiful blend of romance, drama, and music, entwined with vibrant intrinsic values, reflecting the contemporary cultural and societal issues in a subtle, artistically aware style. The film beautifully portrays the dreams, passions, and desires of its protagonists, grounded by reality and propelled by their own ambitions, dreams, and 'Armaan.'

Waheed Murad plays the role of Dr. Akhtar, an ambitious, dedicated doctor who resolves to revolutionize the health sector in Pakistan. His character provides a beacon of optimism, illustrating a man's journey of love, ambition, and the desire for change. Zeba, playing the character of Najma, beautifully portrays a rich woman struck by destined love for Dr. Akhtar. The chemistry between Zeba and Waheed Murad unfurls a tender and touching love story, beautifully capturing the social dynamics of the era.

A significant character in the film, played by Nirala, introduces an undercurrent of humor and joy to the otherwise intense narrative, making the movie more engaging and entertaining for the audience. Moreover, each character's distinct style of delivering dialogue, their expressions, and their mannerisms contribute to the film's unique cinematic flavor.

One of the defining aspects of Armaan is its memorable soundtrack. Composed by Sohail Rana, the lyrics penned by Masroor Anwar were brought to life by voice talents like Ahmed Rushdi, Mala and Irene Parveen. The unique blend of melodious tunes and meaningful, soul-stirring lyrics contribute to the film’s popularity and longevity. Songs like "Ko Ko Korina", sung by Ahmed Rushdi, the "King of Pop", became an instant hit and remains a classic in Pakistan's music industry to date.

The film’s screenplay and dialogues were written by Zia Sarhadi, a prominent writer in the industry. His thought-provoking dialogues and engaging narrative add a layer of depth to the film, making it more than just a love saga. The dialogues, enriched with poise and deep meaning, serve to shape the film's characters and narrative, giving the audience a profound, rounded cinematic experience.

Armaan’s direction by Pervez Malik is noteworthy. His visionary storytelling, combined with his understanding of cinema, captivated audiences, his command over the medium allowing him to create a piece of art that resonated with viewers from different walks of life. The film was spectacularly shot, with scenes capturing the rich cultural tapestry of Pakistan through its elegantly designed sets and locations.

Waheed Murad's self-produced, Armaan, became phenomenal in Pakistan's cinema, gaining accolades and emerging as the first Pakistani film to complete a total of 75 weeks in cinemas, validating its diamond jubilee status, a significant milestone in Pakistani Cinema.

The film, despite being made in the 1960s, holds a significant place in the hearts of Pakistani cinema lovers for its evergreen charm. The popularity of Armaan remains uncontested, stemmed in its stirring narrative, captivating performances, melodious music, and relatable cultural values.

Overall, Armaan can be considered a classic, a milestone in Pakistani Cinema’s evolution, which encapsulates love, hope, desire, humor, and the vibrant spirit of ambitious dreams. A timeless masterpiece, Armaan continues to charm its viewers, decades after its initial release, making it a piece of cinematic history that can be enjoyed by both older and newer generations.