Movie on the Life of Iqbal Masih

Director Shoaib Sultan surprised many by announcing a new film titled “Gunjal,” which focuses on a genre that is rarely explored in Pakistan¹. While audiences are eagerly awaiting the release of upcoming light-hearted comedy Eid films, Gunjal revisits the murder of child activist Iqbal Masih in 1990s Pakistan. The film stars Ahmed Ali Akbar, Resham, and Aamna Ilyas in lead roles, with Syed Muhammad Ali and Ahmed Ali Butt in supporting roles. Produced by Nighat Akbar Shah of Adur Productions, the film follows journalist Shahbaz Bhatti as he investigates Masih’s murder, with themes of human rights, justice, and hope. The film is based on true events and is a must-see for those who believe in making a difference. Masih was a bonded child labourer in a carpet factory at age 5, became a symbol of the struggle against child labor after helping other child slaves escape, and was killed at age 12. His mother and sister demanded the arrest of his murderer, and in 2009, the US Congress named an annual award after him given to activists fighting to end child labour.