COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF PATHAN PORTRAYED IN DRAMA “MERAY HUMNASHEEN” AND IN PROSE “THE PATHAN” BY GHANI KHAN

Abstract

This study presents a comparative analysis of the Pathan/Pashtun identity as represented in the Urdu television drama _Meray Humnasheen_ and in the English prose _The Pathan_ by Ghani Khan. Media representations, particularly in Pakistani dramas, frequently portray Pathans through stereotypes of illiteracy, violence, and anti-education attitudes, which diverge from cultural realities. In contrast, Ghani Khan’s _The Pathan_ offers a nuanced, insider perspective that highlights Pashtunwali values such as Melmastya, Nanawatay, Jirga, and Nang, while also critiquing colonial, political, and social distortions of Pashtun life. By contrasting the stereotyped dramatic portrayal with Ghani Khan’s literary self-representation, the research examines how media production choices shape public perception, contribute to cultural misrepresentation, and obscure the historical and ethical dimensions of Pathan culture. The findings suggest that _Meray Humnasheen_ reinforces reductionist stereotypes, whereas _The Pathan_ provides a more authentic account of Pathan identity, ethics, and resistance. The study concludes by highlighting deficiencies in media representation and the need for culturally responsible narratives.