Ajoka Productions has announced its first feature film, bringing the remarkable life and struggles of legendary Punjabi folk theatre artist Bali Jatti to the big screen. The Bali Jatti Film will explore the cultural heritage of Punjab, highlighting the folk music, theatrical traditions and social environment of the 1970s. The project aims to introduce a significant figure in Punjabi cultural history to a new generation through cinema.
The film’s logo, teaser and a song were unveiled at a ceremony in Lahore, marking an important step in the production process. The project is being developed as a tribute to Bali Jatti’s artistic journey and her contribution to Punjabi folk theatre.
A Story Based on the Life of Inayat Bibi
Bali Jatti, whose real name was Inayat Bibi, became a prominent name in Punjabi folk theatre despite facing family and social opposition. Her journey began with singing, an interest that she pursued despite the restrictions and challenges surrounding her.
The film will follow her transformation from an aspiring singer into a recognised folk theatre artist. It will also explore the personal and professional difficulties she experienced while establishing herself in a demanding artistic environment.
Rather than focusing only on her achievements, the production will examine different dimensions of her life, including artistic struggles, personal relationships, professional rivalries and the challenges she faced along the way.
Through this story, the filmmakers hope to portray the determination and sacrifices behind the success of an artist who played an important role in Punjab’s cultural landscape.
Shahid Nadeem Leads the Film Project
The film has been written, researched and directed by Shahid Nadeem, founder and executive director of Ajoka Theatre. His involvement brings the organisation’s long-standing connection with Punjabi theatre and cultural storytelling to the project.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, Nadeem explained that the purpose of making the film is to introduce the extraordinary life of an important figure in Punjab’s folk theatre history to younger generations and a wider audience.
He believes cinema can provide an effective platform for preserving cultural memories and bringing overlooked artistic contributions into public discussion.
The Bali Jatti Film is also expected to highlight the wider theatrical environment of the 1970s, offering audiences a glimpse into a period when Punjabi folk performances and traditional music played a major role in cultural entertainment.
Arif Lohar Appreciates the Initiative
Renowned folk singer Arif Lohar welcomed Ajoka Productions’ decision to bring Bali Jatti’s story to cinema. He said the project would help revive memories of the golden age of Punjabi folk theatre.
He also highlighted the importance of remembering artists such as Bali Jatti and Alam Lohar, whose work remains associated with an important period in Punjab’s musical and theatrical history.
Dr Fawzia Saeed, former Director General of the Pakistan National Council of the Arts, also shared her research on Bali Jatti. She emphasised the need to preserve the artist’s life story and recognise her contributions to the region’s cultural heritage.
The launch ceremony brought together several personalities from Pakistan’s cultural, artistic and entertainment communities. Among those attending were folk artist Abbas Jatt, photographer and stylist Khawar Riaz, Punjab Institute of Language, Art and Culture Director General Aslam Shahid, fashion designer Mahmood Bhatti, Ajoka Institute Director Nirwan Nadeem, Ajoka Chairperson Zara Salman and television producer Mohsin Jaffer.
Their presence reflected the interest surrounding the project and the importance of documenting the history of Punjabi performing arts.
Filming to Take Place in and Around Lahore
According to Ajoka Productions, the process of selecting actors for the project is currently underway. Filming is expected to take place in Lahore and surrounding areas, helping recreate the cultural atmosphere associated with the story.
The production team aims to complete the film by March. However, further details about the cast and the final release schedule have not yet been announced.
The Bali Jatti Film will initially be released in cinemas across Pakistan. After its local theatrical release, the production is expected to reach international audiences through overseas screenings. Ajoka Productions is also planning to make the film available on OTT platforms, allowing viewers outside traditional cinema markets to watch it.
Preserving Punjab’s Cultural History Through Cinema
The announcement represents an important effort to bring Punjab’s folk theatre heritage to a wider audience. Many artists who shaped regional music and theatre remain less familiar to younger generations, despite their influence on local cultural traditions.
By documenting Bali Jatti’s experiences, Ajoka Productions hopes to preserve a story that reflects both individual determination and the broader struggles of artists working within social and professional limitations.
The film will also provide an opportunity to revisit the music, performances and theatrical culture of 1970s Punjab. Its eventual release could encourage renewed interest in traditional Punjabi entertainment and the personalities who helped shape it.
With Shahid Nadeem leading the creative process and Ajoka Productions behind the project, the Bali Jatti Film is being positioned as more than a biographical story. It is an attempt to celebrate a significant part of Punjab’s cultural identity and ensure that the contributions of its folk artists are remembered by future generations.
