What is the Common Trait Shared by Dictators Through the Centuries?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In his recent interview, director Faruk Kabir unveils the shared psychological traits of dictators like Zia-ul-Haq, Hitler, and Mussolini, as depicted in his series 'Salakaar'. Discover how history's tyrants exhibit narcissism and how their actions have shaped geopolitical landscapes.
Key Takeaways
- Faruk Kabir's insights reveal the psychological traits of dictators.
- The series 'Salakaar' intertwines historical events with fiction.
- Zia-ul-Haq's actions significantly shaped South Asian geopolitics.
- Narcissism is a recurring trait among historical tyrants.
- The series raises awareness about the consequences of authoritarian rule.
Mumbai, Aug 10 (NationPress) Director Faruk Kabir, whose new streaming series ‘Salakaar’ is receiving positive feedback, has shared insights on a shared characteristic of dictators throughout history.
The series, a period spy drama-thriller, shifts between the 1970s and the year 2025. It narrates the tale of an Indian spy monitoring the nuclear advancements in Pakistan, India’s primary adversary. Mukesh Rishi portrays Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq, the Pakistani dictator who intensified his nation’s atomic bomb initiatives.
In an interview with IANS during the promotional phase of the series, Faruk was asked about a scene depicting Zia addressing the public from his classic Mercedes. This moment strikingly mirrors a notorious image of Hitler seated in his own Mercedes while a Nazi convoy passes by.
Faruk remarked, “Indeed, all dictators, whether it’s Hitler, Mussolini, or Zia, exhibit a profound narcissistic trait. This has been a recurring theme among dictators across centuries. Hitler serves as a reference point for Zia due to the similarities in their actions.”
Zia-ul-Haq is often seen as the foundation of many of India’s contemporary issues. He was the second Pakistani dictator, following General Ayub Khan. He concretized Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s strategy of “Bleed India by a thousand cuts,” launching a prolonged conflict against India for Pakistan’s gain.
Subsequently, Zia orchestrated the framing of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto in a legal case, resulting in a death sentence approved by his selected judges.
His political maneuvers have largely contributed to the current geopolitical strife in Southeast Asia. Zia implemented industrialization and deregulation, which significantly bolstered Pakistan’s economy. Following the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979, he adopted an anti-Soviet policy and provided assistance to the Afghan mujahideen, while strengthening ties with China and the United States.
Point of View
It is essential to acknowledge the historical significance of dictators and their impact on national and regional stability. Faruk Kabir's insights into the common traits of tyrants provide valuable understanding into the complexities of leadership and power dynamics, emphasizing the necessity for vigilance in today's political landscape.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of the series 'Salakaar'?
The series 'Salakaar' explores the life of an Indian spy monitoring Pakistan's nuclear developments during the 1970s and 2025.
Who plays the role of Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq?
The character of Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq is portrayed by Mukesh Rishi.
What common trait do dictators share according to Faruk Kabir?
Faruk Kabir identifies a strong narcissistic trait as a common characteristic among dictators such as Hitler, Mussolini, and Zia.
How did Zia-ul-Haq affect India-Pakistan relations?
Zia-ul-Haq's policies and actions have been pivotal in shaping the ongoing geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan.
What historical context does 'Salakaar' include?
The series includes a historical context set in both the 1970s and the year 2025, highlighting the ongoing conflict between India and Pakistan.
