By: Manzar Ikram
I have been fond of reading books since childhood, and this habit led me to read a stage play, Peregrination of the Soul published through Daastan publishers. I came to know about this book as I attended webinar of the writer of this stage play, Syeda Khair-ul-Bariyah. It is a deeply introspective and philosophical stage play that explores the themes of integrity, self-discovery, and redemption. Written by Syeda Khair-ul-Bariyah, it is a ten-act play that follows the journey of Aziel Miller, a young boy who, driven by disillusionment, embarks on a tumultuous path of self-exploration, only to return as a man of pride and honor.
The play is remarkable for its compelling character development, particularly Aziel’s transformation from a lost soul to a symbol of justice. His journey is emotionally charged and thought-provoking. The author skillfully contrasts the righteous values of the Miller family with the corrupt ways of the Milther clan. The play reinforces the idea that true success is built on ethical foundations.
One of the strengths of Peregrination of the Soul is its dialogue. The exchanges between Aziel and his father, Marcellus Miller, are particularly powerful and filled with wisdom. The recurring motif of “letting life take its course” highlights the unpredictability of fate and emphasizes personal accountability. The play also embraces diverse cultures, as seen in Aziel’s friendships with an American, Alden, a Frenchman, Ames, and his spiritual guidance from Maargin, which enhances its universal appeal. Additionally, the play excels in its dramatic structure, with each act unfolding seamlessly—from the point of betrayal to the ultimate pursuit of justice.
If Peregrination of the Soul were staged, it would offer an emotional and deeply thought-provoking theatrical experience. It is filled with cinematic grandeur while remaining rooted in intimate character struggles. It is perfectly suited for a stage adaptation, blending drama, symbolism, and spiritual depth. The Dedication and Acknowledgment sections are not mere formalities in this work; they form the heartbeat of Peregrination of the Soul. The play does more than tell a story—it imparts wisdom, much like the character-building lessons at Forman Christian College (FCCU) that inspired its creation. It serves as a living testament to FCCU’s legacy, delivering a powerful message to the audience: true wisdom resides in character, and true success is found in service to others.
Forman Christian College has shaped countless individuals into men and women of honor. Likewise, the play conveys a profound message—we are never truly lost as long as the seeds of wisdom are sown within us. The author’s dedication to the core values of Forman Christian College, Lahore, and its character-building classes is beautifully reflected in the soul of the play. It would not be wrong to say that this is not just a stage play—it is a tribute to the transformative role that FC College plays through its character-building classes. The play brings to life the very essence of integrity, justice, accountability, fairness, discipline, respect, and relationships, along with many other values that the playwright highlights as being instilled in FCCU students. The story of a lost boy, Aziel, who finds his way back through his father’s teachings, closely mirrors the training given to students of the same age at the institute.
Overall, Peregrination of the Soul is an inspiring stage play that champions the virtues of integrity, resilience, and redemption. Its engaging narrative makes it a remarkable piece of dramatic literature. It leaves the audience with lasting reflections on the true meaning of success and self-worth.
