Who was Umro Ayyar?

Biography of Umro Ayyar, the legend and clever thief of Tilism-e-Hoshruba

AI-generated art of Umro Ayyar, the legendary warrior, by Alizee Ali Khan

Umro Ayyar, a legendary figure steeped in adventure and intrigue, emerges from the rich tapestry of Tilism-e-Hoshruba, an Urdu recension of the Islamic epic Hamzanama (originally in Persian). His exploits have captivated readers for centuries, and his cunning and resourcefulness continue to inspire storytellers and authors.

Origins and Context

Umro Ayyar first graced the pages of literature during the reign of Mughal Emperor Akbar. His character is deeply rooted in Persian and Islamic traditions, where the term “ayyār” refers to a class of warriors known for their cunning, stealth, and resourcefulness. These ayyārs often operated in the shadows, serving as spies, thieves, and protectors of justice.

The Enigmatic Thief

Ayyar character from the classical Urdu novels, comic book, and my designed. (Left to right)

Umro Ayyar occupies a central place in the Hamzanama alongside the titular hero, Amir Hamza. His life unfolds in the mystical city of Tilism-e-Hoshruba, a realm teeming with magic, sorcery, and fantastical creatures.

Here are some key aspects of Umro Ayyar’s character:

1. Cleverness and Theft: Umro Ayyar is renowned for his wit, intelligence, and audacity. As a master thief, he navigates the labyrinthine streets of Tilism-e-Hoshruba, outwitting guards, unraveling mysteries, and stealing treasures. His nimble mind and quick reflexes make him a formidable adversary.
2. Magical Zambeel: Umro possesses a magical zambeel — a mystical bag — from which he can extract whatever he desires. This enchanted bag becomes a powerful tool in his adventures, allowing him to confront evil spirits, protect the innocent, and thwart malevolent forces.
3. Worldly Travels: Umro Ayyar’s wanderlust knows no bounds. He roams the world, encountering supernatural beings, haunted forests, and hidden realms. His escapades take him to distant lands, where he faces both mortal and otherworldly dangers.
4. Helping the Needy: Despite his outlaw status, Umro has a soft spot for the downtrodden. He steals from the rich and aids the poor, using his ill-gotten gains to alleviate suffering. His sense of justice transcends conventional norms.

Literary Legacy

Umro Ayyar’s adventures have inspired countless storytellers, poets, and novelists. Modern Urdu authors, including Zaheer Ahmed, Mazhar Kaleem, Safdar Shaheen, and Akhter Rizvi, have penned storybooks featuring this enigmatic character. Each tale adds layers to Umro’s persona, weaving magic, danger, and moral dilemmas into the fabric of his existence.

Cinematic and Dramatic Depictions

A scene from Umro Ayyar — A New Beginning film

While Umro Ayyar has graced the silver screen and television, it is in the written word that his legacy truly thrives. Notable adaptations include:

• Film: Umro Ayyar — A New Beginning (2024), directed by Azfar Jafri, with Usman Mukhtar portraying the iconic thief.
• Animated Films: The Chronicles of Umro Ayyar (2023), directed by Syed Arsalan Ali and voiced by Haris Basharat.
• Drama: In the beloved TV series Ainak Wala Jin (1993), Umro Ayyar came alive through the talented portrayal of Abdul Hameed Nisar Butt.

Conclusion

Umro Ayyar’s legacy endures — a testament to the enduring power of folklore, imagination, and the timeless allure of a clever thief who dances on the edge of shadows and light.