By| Farooq Ahmad Lone
Diriliş Ertuğrul, translated as Resurrection Ertugrul, is a Turkish historical fiction and adventure television series created by Mehmet Bozdağ for TRT. The series stars Engin Altan Düzyatan as Ertuğrul Bey, the father of Osman I, the founder of the Ottoman Empire. Set in the 13th century, the show follows Ertugrul’s journey of courage, leadership, and sacrifice as he confronts the threats posed by the Byzantines and Mongols while trying to secure a homeland for his Kayi tribe. The story not only portrays Ertugrul’s valor but also highlights the unity and strategy of the Oghuz tribes, often seen holding councils (Ijlas) to counter their enemies. The drama emphasizes the Turkish spirit of resistance to tyranny and commitment to justice, with every episode reflecting deep cultural and historical values.
With five seasons and a total of 150 episodes, Diriliş: Ertuğrul has gained massive global recognition, boasting over 3.5 billion views. While the series has been a massive hit in Turkey, it has also resonated strongly with audiences across the Muslim world, inspiring pride in Islamic history and heritage. It has been dubbed in six languages and broadcast in seventy-two countries. Notably, Pakistan aired the series on its national television channel PTV in Urdu, further boosting its popularity. Audiences can also watch it in Turkish with subtitles in various languages, making it widely accessible. The show’s powerful storytelling and compelling depiction of faith-driven resistance have deeply moved viewers, providing both entertainment and moral insight.
Among Islamic scholars and cultural critics, the show is viewed as a significant effort by the Turkish entertainment industry to reconnect Muslims with their past, religion, and values. It illustrates how a handful of Turkic tribes, inspired by Islamic principles, laid the groundwork for a future Muslim empire. Ertugrul’s character demonstrates unwavering devotion, strategic brilliance, and moral integrity amid trials and suffering, embodying the challenges faced by believers on the righteous path. The drama has earned global acclaim, although some critics see it as a political tool of the current Turkish government under Recep Tayyip Erdogan. As a dedicated fan, I recommend this masterpiece to anyone seeking to witness how faith and perseverance can spark the rise of a just and resilient state.
Farooq Ahmad Lone ([email protected]