DefinePK

Abstract

            This research paper examines the artistic and intellectual importance of dialogue in the dramatic works of Amjad Islam Amjad, situating his contribution within the broader evolution of Urdu drama. Emerging as a distinct literary genre in the mid-nineteenth century under the influence of European theatrical traditions, Urdu drama found its early architect in Agha Hashr Kashmiri, often hailed as the “Shakespeare of Urdu.” With the advent of radio, dialogue became the soul of drama, serving as the principal medium through which emotion and narrative were conveyed. The introduction of television in Pakistan in 1964 further expanded the expressive range of drama, enriching it with visual and performative dimensions. Amjad Islam Amjad’s arrival in this literary landscape infused Urdu drama with renewed depth and aesthetic subtlety. His poetic sensibility permeates his dramatic compositions, lending them simplicity of diction combined with profound thematic resonance. His dialogues are imbued with realism and moral insight, articulating the psychological conflicts, social dynamics, and ethical complexities of his characters. The celebrated television play Waris (1979) stands as a milestone, exemplifying his mastery over language and characterization. Amjad’s dramas transcend mere entertainment; they embody a thoughtful engagement with the human condition, blending literary grace with socio-cultural awareness. Through his artful command of dialogue, he transformed Urdu drama into a powerful medium of reflection, where aesthetic beauty and social consciousness coexist harmoniously.