Pakistani writer Khalil ur Rehman Qamar revealed that he was once approached to write what would eventually become Heeramandi, long before it took shape as a high-profile streaming project.
He is known for penning some of Pakistan’s most memorable dramas, Qamar has built a reputation not only for his storytelling but also for his outspoken views. His portfolio includes hits like Mere Paas Tum Ho, Pyare Afzal, and Sadqay Tumhare, while his recent project Main Manto Nahi Hoon has also drawn significant attention. He is currently working on an upcoming drama starring Danish Taimoor for Green Entertainment.
During an appearance on Irshad Bhatti’s podcast, Qamar shared that he was originally offered to write the script for Heeramandi when it was still conceptualized as a film titled Mandi. According to him, the offer came directly from India, with lengthy discussions taking place over multiple calls.
Reflecting on the subject matter, Qamar noted that Heeramandi has long been considered a sensitive and avoided topic in Pakistan. He referenced the legendary writer Saadat Hasan Manto, who famously explored such themes in his work but faced backlash for doing so.
Qamar explained that his initial refusal stemmed from a sense of patriotism. However, he did consider the offer under one condition—equal respect. He stated that he asked the makers to ensure that a Pakistani writer would be treated with the same regard in India as Indian artists often receive in Pakistan. He even suggested media coverage upon arrival, pointing out what he described as an imbalance in how artists are received across borders.
In his remarks, Qamar did not hold back from criticizing Indian lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar, calling him “shallow” and expressing disappointment over the respect he believes Akhtar receives in Pakistan.
