Memon says it’s govt’s responsibility to ensure youth learn about his work and values.
The Sindh government has announced that it will produce a film on the life and services of Abdul Sattar Edhi – the late philanthropist and founder of the Edhi Foundation – in an effort to pay tribute to one of Pakistan’s most revered humanitarian figures.
The announcement was made by Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon during the closing ceremony of a film festival held in Karachi.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr Memon said the provincial government would collaborate with noted filmmaker Satish Anand on the biopic. He emphasized the need for storytelling through cinema, particularly to highlight the achievements of national heroes whose legacies must be preserved for future generations.
“In neighbouring India, films are actively used as a tool for promoting national narrative and influencing global perceptions. Unfortunately, we have not fully realised the potential of cinema in Pakistan,” the minister said.
He added that following recent hostilities between India and Pakistan, Indian filmmakers were reportedly planning to produce nearly 100 films based on the conflict. “In contrast, we have no such plans. But Pakistan is full of remarkable stories—real stories—that deserve to be told on screen.”
Calling Abdul Sattar Edhi a beacon of hope and humanity, Mr Memon said it was the government’s responsibility to ensure the youth learn about his work and values.
“Everyone in today’s Pakistan knows Edhi Sahib. But if we do not pass on his story, future generations might not understand the scale of his contributions. It is through films that we can make such legacies immortal,” he noted.
While the minister confirmed the project, no additional details were provided regarding the film’s production timeline, cast, or expected release.
Abdul Sattar Edhi passed away in July 2016 at the age of 88, after a long illness. Known for his selfless humanitarian work, Edhi established one of the largest and most trusted welfare networks in Pakistan. The Edhi Foundation continues to provide services ranging from ambulance operations to orphanages and shelter homes across the country.