In a very recent trend of debates related to the art and entertainment industry in Pakistan, Yasir Hussain, an actor and television host came into the spotlight. Some people could not understand his remarks about the process of legalization of some sorts of entertainment and that triggered controversies. Of course, to remove any doubt, Yasir Hussain has come out in a disclaimer trying to make us understand that he means theatre dances alone and not pornography.
The Controversy Explained
The problem started when Hussain who is known for his crass attitude said something during an interview that was interpreted as a call to legalize porno in Pakistan. This dig worked as an indirect innuendo which therefore angered many Pakistanis given the conservative outlook of Pakistan society and the rigid laws in possession against obscenity. The opponents did not take long to express their outrage claiming that he was inciting obscenity.
Yasir Hussain’s Clarification
To counter such reactions Yasir Hussain consequently had to come to social media to defend himself. He said that his words were misrepresented and misinterpreted and he wanted to legalize the theatre dances which are a sort of art that comes from the roots of Pakistani culture. According to Hussain, theatre dances, be they traditional or contemporary, should be seen as a part of the Performance arts of the country and thus should indeed be valued and accepted.
Hussain pointed out, saying, “Let me make it quite clear that I have no intention of legalizing theatre or what people refer to as pornographic dance Navigation Information Control and Revolution in Pakistan today; I am only in support of the protection of theatre dances as these dances are part of our heritage as an art.”
Importance Of Theatre Dances
The clarification provided by Hussain can therefore be seen to fit into an ongoing discussion in Pakistan as to the place of art in the society. Stage dances may include traditional dances such as Kathak or the dances in conventional plays as well as dances in today’s play, and drama among other kinds of performances. But such forms of art have time and again been met with controversy censorship, and social rejection mainly whenever they are deemed to violate the moral codes.
These dances should be applauded as an art and culture, according to Hussain. “Theatre dances are not only fun, “he said.” They are part of our heritage, our culture, and our people, and part of our identity as a country.” He stated that if these products are going to be performed, they should at least be done in a manner that is legal and meets certain standards of decency.
The Broader Debate
Yasir Hussain’s comments were made at a time when Pakistan was raised with issues of freedom of speech and art. Music, Dance, and theatre have always been a part of India’s tradition but they have not been spared from censorship and moral police.
Getting to the heart of the matter Hussain is right about the legalization of theatre dances though most of these dances are obscene and contrary to the norms of our culture utmost care must be taken to preserve and develop our culture. His clarification also preached the need for people to avoid muddy waters in matters that are sensitive for instance, it is not very wise to comment on X’s dress code without her consent elaborately especially when her figure is not very flattering.
Bottom Line
The recent comments by Yasir Hussain have initiated a very important debate about arts in Pakistan. That is why he is fighting for the legalization of theatre dances, a noble cause that aims at upholding culture as well as seeing to it that it is done in manners that are acceptable by society’s standards. For this reason, it is important not to confuse the freedom of artistic creativity with emerging threats to the cultural heritage of the nation and to support work that is creative and productive for the environment.
