One Man Show
By Moin Akhtar
Oxford University Press
ISBN: 978-9697347407
416pp.

They say never judge a book by its cover. But who could resist an OUP-published Urdu book featuring the legendary comedian, host and actor Moin Akhtar, with a preface by the iconic orator and actor Zia Mohyeddin, and a foreword by none other than Anwar Maqsood — the renowned humorist, host and Moin Akhtar’s long-time collaborator?

Written mostly by Moin Akhtar himself (1950-2011), the book has been published over 13 years after his passing, with the reason for the delay revealed in the chapters written by his siblings and children, before the beginning of the main narrative.

It is an autobiography, a memoir, a tribute and a celebration of Moin Akhtar’s unparalleled legacy all at once. Zia Mohyeddin’s foreword transports you to the Moin Akhtar of the 1970s, a rising talent striving to make his mark, while Anwar Maqsood’s preface encapsulates the Moin we all know and admire. The first 35-odd pages are profoundly moving, filled with heartfelt notes from Moin Akhtar’s closest — sure to bring tears to one’s eyes.

It is best to take a break after reading the early tributes by his children and siblings, before diving into Moin Akhtar’s own words — because, like me, you’ll likely find yourself wiping your reading glasses more often than actually focusing on the text.

Published 13 years after his death, the memoirs of legendary comedian, actor and compere Moin Akhtar make one feel as if he is directly addressing you from the hereafter

The next section, comprising five chapters by Moin, offers a glimpse into Moin Akhtar’s earliest days — delving into the days before fame found him — from his birth and childhood to his running away as a kid to Lahore, his entry into showbiz and his family life. He keeps it concise, much like his compering, hinting at something much........

© Dawn (Magazines)