Maulana Abdul Aziz Ghazi leads the Red Mosque in Islamabad, advocating for the implementation of Sharia law in Pakistan. The documentary follows his efforts to promote jihad through a network of madrasas that educate young students. It contrasts his views with those of Dr. Pervez Hoodbhoy, a nuclear physicist and civil activist who opposes Aziz's ideology. The film also addresses the aftermath of the 2014 Peshawar School Massacre, which intensified calls for reform in Pakistan's educational system.

What Critics Say

Hemal Trivedi and Mohammed Ali Naqvi’s profile of controversial school head Maulana Abdul Aziz, which has premiered at the Tribeca film festival, reflects the religious changes, and stasis, in Pakistan.

Jordan HoffmanRead full article

April 17, 2015

Deep Dive

Why Watch

Meet Maulana Abdul Aziz Ghazi and his radical views.
Follow Dr. Pervez Hoodbhoy's fight against extremism.
See the impact of the Peshawar School Massacre on public opinion.

Did You Know

The film premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival on April 17, 2015.
Co-Producer Syed Musharaf Shah lost four family members in the Peshawar School Massacre.
The Red Mosque's madrasas are live-in Islamic seminaries for youths.

Perfect For

Islamic extremismPakistani politicsEducational reform

Read full Deep Dive →

Frequently Asked Questions

Who directed the documentary Among the Believers?

Among the Believers was directed by Hemal Trivedi and Mohammed Ali Naqvi.

What significant event does the documentary touch upon that occurred in December 2014?

The documentary touches upon the Peshawar School Massacre, where 132 school children and nine other people were killed.

What is the main focus of cleric Abdul Aziz Ghazi in the documentary?

Abdul Aziz Ghazi advocates for jihad to impose Sharia law as Pakistan's main law.

Awards & Festivals

Tribeca Film Festival

2015 • Official selection

IDFA International Documentary Festival Amsterdam

2015 • Official selection

Awards & Festivals

Comments

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