Author and renowned drama writer Farhat Ishtiaq’s novel Jo Bachay Hain Sang Samait Lo is set for a much-anticipated Netflix adaptation, sparking excitement among fans eager to see the story brought to life as a drama series.
Farhat, known for her engaging storytelling, shared some intriguing insights about the upcoming series in an interview with Connect Cine. She revealed that the production phase has wrapped up, with viewers expected to see the series premiere next year. Filming took place across diverse and scenic locations including Italy, the UK, Islamabad, and Karachi, creating a visually rich experience. Italy, in particular, has a unique role in both the novel and the adaptation. Reflecting on her inspiration, Farhat shared, “Italy holds a special place for me. I spent several years there and fell in love with its history and culture, which ultimately inspired me to base my novel around it.” Cities such as Rome, Milan, and Florence feature prominently, almost as characters in their own right, adding depth and context to the storyline.
Discussing the challenges of adapting her work for the screen, especially for an OTT platform like Netflix, Farhat acknowledged the adjustments needed for a successful adaptation. She noted, “A novel allows for more freedom of expression, but when it’s adapted for the screen, certain changes are necessary to align with the medium’s demands. Despite this, the core essence of the novel has been preserved.”
In addition to discussing her upcoming project, Farhat opened up about her literary influences and love for poetry. When asked about her favorite writers, she expressed admiration for celebrated Urdu poets like Ghalib, Faiz Ahmed Faiz, Ahmed Faraz, and Munir Niazi, whose verses resonate with her deeply. Although she doesn’t write poetry, she values its beauty, noting how a poem can convey complex emotions in a few lines—something that would take pages in prose.
Farhat also cited Bano Qudsia, Ashfaq Ahmed, and Qurratulain Hyder as some of her favorite Urdu fiction writers, while her influences in English literature include classics from Shakespeare and Thomas Hardy. An avid reader, Farhat appreciates a broad range of literature, explaining, “I don’t limit myself to just high-quality literature; I enjoy both acclaimed and lesser-known works.”
As fans eagerly await the Netflix release of Jo Bachay Hain Sang Samait Lo, Farhat’s insights into the adaptation have only heightened the anticipation surrounding this much-loved story’s transition to the screen.
