DefinePK

Research Objective

To reveal the societal backlash faced by Rahat Khwaja in the movie Zindagi Tamasha, highlighting broader implications for the acceptance of queer identities within Pakistan's socio-religious landscape, and to examine the complexities of queer identity politics in contemporary Pakistan.

Methodology

Phenomenological study using Sara Ahmed's queer phenomenological model of affect as contact and Gillian Rose's visual methodologies. Analysis of the movie Zindagi Tamasha, focusing on Rahat Khwaja's character, his dance performance, and societal reactions.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD
    A[Analyze Zindagi Tamasha Movie] --> B[Focus on Rahat Khwaja's Character and Dance];
    B --> C[Apply Sara Ahmed's Queer Phenomenology];
    C --> D[Apply Gillian Rose's Visual Methodologies];
    D --> E[Examine Societal Backlash and Queer Identity Politics];
    E --> F[Identify Key Findings on Shame and Disgrace];
    F --> G[Formulate Conclusion on Inclusivity];                    

Discussion

The study argues that Pakistan's patriarchal society is resistant to queer identities, particularly when embodied by religious figures. Rahat Khwaja's dance, interpreted as effeminate and associated with transgender acts, triggers severe backlash, leading to his social ostracization. The paper explores how societal norms, honor, and religious fundamentalism contribute to the rejection of non-normative gender expressions. It also discusses the role of media and digital platforms in amplifying shame and disgrace.

Key Findings

Pakistan's gender-based patriarchal society disregards and questions queerness, especially in religious personalities. Rahat Khwaja's dance performance challenges normative gender roles and problematizes societal backlash. His newly acquired queerness highlights a socio-religious dilemma, leading to disorientation and marginalization. Societal reaction to his performance underscores the complexities of queer identity politics in Pakistan.

Conclusion

Rahat Khwaja's experience in Zindagi Tamasha exemplifies the severe socio-religious backlash faced by individuals who transgress gender norms in Pakistan. The study concludes that queerness, even as a momentary performance, is unacceptable, leading to disorientation and a shrinking of social space for those who deviate from established gender binaries. It calls for a more inclusive and compassionate society that embraces diversity without prejudice.

Fact Check

- The movie analyzed is "Zindagi Tamasha" by Sarmad Sultan Khoosat.
- The study uses theoretical frameworks from Sara Ahmed's "Queer Phenomenology" and Gillian Rose's "Research Methods for English Studies."
- Rahat Khwaja's character is depicted as a religious cleric who recites Naats.

Mind Map