Dastangoi: The Adventures of Amir Hamza

Magic, sorcery, warriors, and tricksters came together for two evenings at the Asia Society, in the vividly told stories of Dastangoi: The Adventures of Amir Hamza, bringing to life the trials and triumphs of the Prophet Muhammad's uncle Amir Hamza. Iconic film actor Naseeruddin Shah along with Mahmood Farooqui and Danish Husain performed this ancient form of Urdu storytelling. Together, they created a fascinating tableau through a combination of poetry and acting. Hailed by critics as "an enthralling revival of a dying tradition" (Dawn Magazine), dastangoi is a rich form of dramatized Urdu storytelling that dates back to medieval Iran (Persia) that has recently regained critical acclaim due to the work of distinguished scholar Mahmood Farooqui. Part of Muslim Voices: Arts and Ideas Festival