The Legacy of Zia Mohyeddin: A Glimpse into His Role in Lawrence of Arabia

Zia Mohyeddin, an iconic British-Pakistani actor, holds a distinctive place in cinematic and theatrical history. He gained international fame for his performance in the 1962 epic Lawrence of Arabia, where he played the role of Tafas, an Arab guide. In the film, Tafas encounters T.E. Lawrence (played by Peter O’Toole) and introduces him to the Bedouin desert lifestyle before meeting a tragic fate. Although his role was brief, Zia’s presence in the early part of the film left a lasting impression, symbolizing the interaction between British and Arabian cultures—a central theme of the movie.

Beyond cinema, Zia Mohyeddin was a multi-faceted cultural icon, celebrated not just as an actor but also as a theatre director, orator, and broadcaster. Born in Faisalabad (formerly Lyallpur) in 1931, Zia pursued his early education in Pakistan before moving to England, where he was trained at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA). His rigorous training at RADA shaped his career on stage, particularly in Shakespearean drama, where he was known for his commanding voice, eloquence, and nuanced delivery. Zia became one of the first South Asians to earn acclaim on the British stage, starring in productions such as Julius Caesar and Othello.

Zia’s connection with the performing arts extended far beyond acting. He was an exceptional narrator, famous for his readings of classical Urdu literature, including works by poets like Ghalib and Faiz Ahmed Faiz. His oratory skills became legendary through television, especially with the Zia Mohyeddin Show in the 1970s, a program that left a profound impact on Pakistan’s media landscape.

After spending years abroad, Zia returned to Pakistan to continue his contributions to theatre and broadcasting. He founded the National Academy of Performing Arts (NAPA) in Karachi, where he mentored several generations of actors. Zia’s commitment to nurturing talent and promoting Urdu literature left a cultural legacy that endures beyond his passing in February 2023 at the age of 91.

Zia Mohyeddin’s role in Lawrence of Arabia was only a small part of his illustrious career, but it remains a testament to his ability to transcend cultural boundaries and showcase his talent on a global stage. His life’s work exemplified the intersection of East and West, bridging artistic traditions through theatre, cinema, and literature.