Renowned Pakistani playwright Shaughta Bhatti, the ingenious creator of shows like ‘Sabz Kadam’ and ‘Bedardi’, boldly proclaims, “We’ve outdone Indian Star Plus productions; we’ve developed our own unique style.”
Bhatti earned a postgraduate degree in Mass Communication from Bahauddin Zakariya University in Multan. Her passion for writing ignited in her youth, with her pieces featured in publications such as Children’s Jang, Noonhal, Education and Training, and Phool and Kalian.
She also achieved notable success in fiction writing, providing numerous short stories to Women’s Digest, Kiran, Shuaa, and Pakeeza starting in 1986. A stunning ten of her novels have been transformed into published books.
Her exceptional skill has garnered her numerous awards, including the esteemed Best Fiction Writer Award in the All Pakistan Fiction Competition.
Since her entrance into television drama post-2010, Bhatti has received widespread praise for her incredibly popular dramas, which include ‘Bedardi’, ‘Atash‘, ‘Qeed‘, and ‘Sabz Kadam’.
Independent Urdu conducted a one-on-one interview with Shaughta Bhatti to explore her life and achievements.
Reflecting on her early life, she recalled, “I was born in Multan but spent my childhood in Bahawalnagar. Our family consisted of five sisters and two brothers. My uncle, without children of his own, welcomed me into his home.”
Bhatti credits her love of writing to the supportive atmosphere of her home.
Shaughta Bhatti: The Pakistani Playwright Who Dares to Compare
Shaughta Bhatti, a name synonymous with success in Pakistani television, has thrown down the gauntlet. In a bold statement, she claims Pakistani dramas have surpassed their Indian counterparts, boasting a unique style all their own. This isn’t mere bravado from a newcomer; Bhatti’s extensive career speaks volumes.
Her journey began long before the bright lights of television. A postgraduate in Mass Communication from Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Bhatti honed her craft writing for publications like Children’s Jang, Noonhal, and Phool and Kalian, showcasing her talent from a young age. Transitioning to fiction, she contributed numerous short stories to well-known magazines, culminating in the publication of ten novels. This impressive literary background is complemented by awards, including the prestigious Best Fiction Writer Award in the All Pakistan Fiction Competition.
Bhatti’s foray into television post-2010 solidified her status as a leading playwright. Critically acclaimed and immensely popular dramas like Bedardi, Atash, Qeed, and Sabz Kadam stand as testaments to her skill and vision. These shows, according to Bhatti herself, represent a departure from Indian productions, forging a new, distinctly Pakistani path.
While her assertion is bound to spark debate, Bhatti’s substantial achievements provide a solid foundation for her confident claim. Her journey, from a childhood in Bahawalnagar surrounded by five sisters and two brothers, to becoming a celebrated novelist and playwright, is a testament to her talent and unwavering passion. It’s a narrative that mirrors the strength and originality she attributes to Pakistani television drama itself. The question remains: is she right? Only time, and the continued success of Pakistani dramas, will tell.
