Entertainment
Sultan Salahuddin Ayyubi: A Drama Series on the Life of a Legendary Leader
| Original Name of the Show | Kudüs Fatihi Selahaddin Eyyubi |
| Also known as | Saladin: The Conqueror of Jerusalem |
| Premiere Date | 13 November 2023 |
| Production Companies | Akli Film, Ansari Shah Films |
| Collaboration | Turkey-Pakistan international project |
| Focus | Life and conquests of Sultan Salahuddin Ayyubi, unification of Muslim territories |
| Target Audience | Non-Muslims unaware of Muslim history, global audiences |
| Title Character | Uğur Güneş as Sultan Salahuddin Ayyubi |
The historical drama series “Sultan Salahuddin Ayyubi,” also known as “Kudüs Fatihi Selahaddin Eyyubi,” is a collaborative project between Turkey and Pakistan. The project depict the life of Salahuddin Ayyubi, a revered figure in Islamic history known for his leadership during the Crusades and the recapture of Jerusalem.
Plot Overview
Salahuddin Ayyubi series chronicles the life and achievements of Sultan Salahuddin Ayyubi, focusing on his role as a unifying leader and a symbol of justice and bravery. The narrative explores his military strategies, political acumen, and the challenges he faced during his reign, particularly against the backdrop of the Crusades. It aims to portray not only his victories but also the moral and ethical dilemmas he navigated as a ruler respected by both allies and adversaries.
Cast and Crew
Salahuddin Ayyubi series features a prominent cast from both Turkey and Pakistan.
Turkish Cast
- Uğur Güneş as Salahuddin Ayyubi: Known for his role in “Diriliş: Ertuğrul,” Güneş plays the titular character.
- Mehmet Ali Nuroğlu as Noor ud Din Zangi: A historical figure and ally of Salahuddin.
- Seda Yildiz as Ayyub Ibn Shadi: Salahuddin’s father.
- Zeynap Kumral as Fatma Hatun: Salahuddin’s mother.
- Burak Sarimola as Shehinshah: Salahuddin’s brother.
- Ali Ersan Duru as Turan Shah: Salahuddin’s elder brother.
- Sezgin Erdemir as Shirkuh: Salahuddin’s uncle.
- Dilin Doger as Surreya: A significant character in the series.
- Sezin Akbasogullari as Ismat Ad Din Khatun: Daughter of the regent of Damascus.
- Baris Bagci as Rahid ad Din Sanan: Another key character.
Pakistani Cast
Sultan Salahuddin Ayyubi season 1 is currently on aired on HUM TV. Several Pakistani actors have been part of the Salahuddin Ayyubi series:
Noor Ul Hassan made a notable entry as Sheikh Abdul Qadir Jillani in season 1 of the Turkish version, contributing to its popularity.
Ushna Shah, Adnan Jilani, Farhan Agha and Ayesha Omar were among the first Pakistani actors who successfully auditioned for the series during the first round of auditions held in Lahore and Karachi. Over 6,000 actors applied but only 62 were selected.
Ahmed Ali Akbar recently shared Salahuddin Ayyubi posters on Instagram, hinting at the excitement surrounding the upcoming season. Entertainment journalist Maliha Rehman revealed that the talented Dur-e- Fishan Saleem has also joined the cast, adding to the anticipation.
Production Details
The production is helmed by Pakistani producers Adnan Siddiqui, Humayun Saeed, Dr. Kashif Ansari, and Dr. Junaid Ali Shah, who are committed to delivering a high-quality portrayal of this historical epic.
The filming of “Salahuddin Ayyubi” began in 2022, with a significant focus on creating an authentic historical setting. The series is shot in Turkey, featuring elaborate sets that recreate ancient Damascus, including mosques, bazaars, and residences. The production aims to provide a visually immersive experience that transports viewers back in time. The series is structured to span three seasons, with a total of 34 episodes planned, and is set to be broadcast in both Turkish and Urdu, making it accessible to a wider audience. It is also dubbed in English and Arabic to cater to international viewers.
Airing Schedule
“Salahuddin Ayyubi” premiered on TRT 1 on November 13, 2023, airing every Monday night at 9 PM. The series is also scheduled to be released on Hum TV in Pakistan, starting May 6, 2024, during the prime time slot of 9 PM.
Significance
This series not only aims to entertain but also to educate audiences about the historical significance of Sultan Salahuddin Ayyubi. The producers emphasize that the series is intended for a global audience, showcasing the values of justice, courage, and leadership that transcended cultural and religious boundaries during his reign. The collaboration between Turkish and Pakistani filmmakers is seen as a significant step in enhancing cultural ties and storytelling in the region.
Stay tuned at Explore It Beyond to learn more about this Sultan Salahuddin Ayyubi season 2 details.
