he Karakoram Express is an ambitious theatrical production. Directed by Farhan Malik and produced by Surya and Parallel Production, the play grapples with themes of existence, redemption and the inherent value of life.

The play begins with a somber, dimly lit scene, where a professor stumbles onto the stage, seemingly lost in contemplation of life’s deeper meanings. His solitude is soon interrupted by his student, who proceeds to share some poignant moments from his life. Through these reflections, the student seeks to persuade the professor of the intrinsic value of life, the importance of friendship and the relationships that surround him, all of which are in desperate need of his attention. What follows then is a dialogue that questions the deeper meaning of life, purpose and existence.

Malik’s direction is notable for its focus on character development. He takes the audience on a journey that probes deep philosophical questions. However, while the play has many strengths, some uneven moments prevent it from achieving a flawless narrative arc.

The set design is one of the most striking elements of The Karakoram Express. Minimalistic yet effective, the stage serves as a symbolic representation of the characters’ internal struggles. Its sparse arrangement mirrors the emptiness felt by the characters. Subtle lighting changes using a candle help underscore the shifts in mood and tension. The use of shadow and light to emphasise pivotal moments, particularly during the exchanges between the lead characters, adds depth to the visual storytelling. The set may not be overwhelming but it certainly complements the play’s cerebral tone.

Zohair Zubair (student) and Jahanzaib Navi, playing the two leads, deliver performances that anchor the play. Zubair’s portrayal of a troubled individual wrestling with his life’s meaning is both intense and captivating. His dialogue delivery, filled with raw emotion, commands attention. The way Zubair’s character challenges the professor, urging him to reconsider the value of existence, is perhaps the most dynamic element of the play. His performance captures the essence of a man on the brink, teetering between despair and hope.

Every scene builds upon the last. The tension between the characters intensifies as the philosophical questions grow more profound. The dialogue is sharp and thought-provoking, particularly during the moments where Zubair’s character questions life’s worth, pushing the professor to confront his beliefs.

Jahanzaib Navi’s performance as the professor is slightly more subdued. This works both for and against him. Navi’s initial portrayal of the professor, a man struggling with his own moral and philosophical dilemmas, is understated. It sometimes borders on underwhelming. During the buildup, there are moments where his delivery feels flat; almost detached. This detracts from the tension that Malik’s direction tries to create. However, this early restraint pays off during the climactic monologue that brings the professor’s arc to a powerful conclusion. In the final act, Navi delivers a masterful, emotionally charged speech that not only redeems his character but also provides one of the play’s most memorable moments.

Malik’s direction is at its best when it comes to staging and pacing. The play’s structure is meticulous, allowing the emotional highs and lows to develop organically. Each scene builds upon the last. The tension between the characters intensifies as the philosophical questions grow more profound. The dialogue is sharp and thought-provoking, particularly during the moments where Zubair’s character questions life’s worth, pushing the professor to confront his beliefs.

The balance between existential themes and the intimacy of the performances ensures that the viewers remain engaged throughout, though the middle portion of the play could have benefitted from tighter pacing.

One of the production’s standout features is how it handles its philosophical undertones. Malik uses dialogue and interaction to explore these ideas without overwhelming the audience with too much abstraction. The conversations between the two characters, which touch on life, death and redemption, feel natural and compelling. This balance between intellectual depth and emotional resonance is what makes The Karakoram Express such a thought-provoking experience.

As The Karakoram Express gears up for performances at T2F and Club 432, it promises to deliver gripping interaction.

The overall experience is memorable. There are strong performances, sharp dialogue and a deeply resonant monologue whose impact lingers long after the final bow. The play deserves attention for its artistic ambition and its willingness to tackle life’s complexities head-on.

The writer is the head of content at a communications agency