There are certain shots in ‘Hundan’ which you’ve probably never seen in a Pakistani film before. Sweeping mountain landscapes and rugged terrains as well as herds of Ibex grazing. Certainly, the Burusho people, the focus of the film, have never been represented as such.
‘Hundan’ tells a story passed down for generations in folklore. A man goes to hunt an Ibex so he can serve something special to his wife, soon to be a mother. His wife and mother plead for him to stay since the baby will arrive any day, but he is stubborn. He takes along a friend and the hunt begins.
Throughout, the film touches on Burusho traditions and cultural practices related to festivities, hunting, and nature. The hunt, which makes up the bulk of the film, is seen as more of a spiritual, rather than a physical journey. The act itself is meant to bring glad tidings and celebration but simultaneously is seen by some as barbaric and boding ill.
These two views clash as the story comes to a head and the final message is revealed. And while the final reveal seems rushed, one can’t help admire the “Hundan” itself. Hundan means the echo of a dirge, or a lament at a funeral. If one were well versed in the Burushaski language, then the ending would come as no surprise.
‘Hundan’ is not perfect. Debut director Karamat Ali frames and captures the beautiful landscape well, but in close quarters, his inexperience shows. Certain interactions are too rushed and some shots poorly framed. Yet, the point is hammered home effectively by the end.
Alhan Ul Qudrat, who plays the protagonist, Shaheen, is a great talent. His dramatic range would be well explored in a more well-fleshed out role.
‘Hundan’ is the first film ever to be shot in the Burushaski language. That in itself makes it a milestone. A very short online search reveals that the language is unique in its form and has no relation to any other language. Though by the dialects and diction one could make out superficial similarities to other mountainous languages.
‘Hundan’ serves as a moral tale as well as a symbol. Like any great fairy tale, it has multiple meanings to it. It communicates a love of nature, the homeland, family, and the need to live in balance with wildlife and preserve it.
The film stars Alhan Ul Qudrat, Zahid Azeem, Munira Shah and Taifa Bano.
