Danish Hameed

Resurrection: Ertugrul has breathed new life and a fire of resurrection into the Muslim world. This series captivates viewers like an addiction. It doesn’t have any single element of obscenity or pornography, which is the most striking feature of this show. The traditions, culture, social customs, spirituality (sufism) and reflections of Islam are woven like a necklace of pearls in this show.
Ertugrul’s bravery, honesty, masterful swordsmanship, wisdom, foresight and vitality is the reason I watched 179 episodes and nothing else for a month. The historical aspects are very vivid and a good portrait of the evils of the Crusaders, Templars and Barbarians. As far as the acting of Engin Altin is concerned, he has exceptionally portrayed the lead protoganist. Sword-fighting and horse-riding have been done in such a phenomenal way that everyone is enchanted and fascinated by it. The other actors have also played their roles in an outstanding way.
It is the prime responsibility of the show’s viewers to groom their personality in the light of Ertugrul and to promote this series to every person of their society. Insha’Allah, this series will fulfil the need of resurrection in the Muslim Ummah.
This series has given me a deep appreciation of Muslim faith and culture, on which it is based, and the trials and tribulations that tribes and people of that period in history endured. I have felt the pain, the disgust at the deceit and corruption in unjust systems perpetrated by power-hungry individuals, the joy in triumphs, the grace and determination of always battling for a much higher power that gave them the strength and commitment to endure. Thank you to the magnificent team of people who have made this series possible, to everyone that was part of it. This series has awakened my being to a level I have never experienced before. I have never been one for binge watching, till now! I have never seen anything remotely similar. There is a purpose in why and how things happen, and the show has reinforced my own basic spiritual beliefs. I am overwhelmed by the many messages that I have grasped throughout every episode.
I belong to an ethic group far from the region of where this Turkish history originates, and was totally ignorant until now of its customs and beliefs. I came across this series on Telegram and Facebook and I have now watched all the seasons. It has allowed me to witness the devotion of a mighty people in its purest form, in a way I least expected and was taken aback by.
The series has inspired me to research the history of the Kayis, Qiniqs and Dordugas, among other tribes. I am also refreshing my knowledge of the Byzantine Empire. I enjoyed the valour of Ertugrul and his three trusted aides. I am amazed by the expertise of the show’s creator, Mehmet Bozdag, in assembling so many moving parts. The supporting role of the women is shown with such grace and femininity. I am surprised that Hayme Hatun has lasted so long, considering the stress she has endured. Ertugrul, Turgut, Selcan, Wild Demir, Halime, Bamsi and Dogan are my favourites. I look forward to seeing them every day. The death of some characters made me tearful, as I had grown attached to them like family. I would love to visit that old country. Because of this show I’m reading history books again.
If you like history and action with lots of battles, this show is amazing. It takes place before the Ottoman Empire when the Mongols were taking over, the crusaders were pursuing their agenda, and the Turks were trying to find a place to settle while Ertugrul aided their Sultan. Subtitles are needed but are well worth it.
The Turkish characters are of Muslim faith and there are some interesting similarities in their stories to Christian ones, like Noah and the flood, which I found intriguing.
Yes, there’s lots of violence, but it was war and quite frankly, there are lots of manipulative evil little weasels that you find yourself hoping that they get their comeuppance.
Characters are based on real people and events. The last Of Ertugrul’s descendants recently passed (also named Ertugrul), ironically having been smuggled out of the castle in Turkey to save the life of the heir who was to become sultan decades ago. He lived in New York. The real Turkot lived to age 125 and died in a battle with his axe in hand.
I generally don’t like to read subtitles to understand what is going on. This series is an exception. I was encouraged to watch it by friends. I started watching the 1st episode and stopped three times until one day I decided to sit down and watch the whole episode. I have finished watching all seasons now and I can say it is nothing less than magnificent.
All the actors have done a tremendous job in bringing to life a period of history that we had all forgotten. My reason for loving the series is the portrayal of Muslim families of the time and the respect these people gave to their elders, which is still the norm in respectable Muslim families and countries.
Watch it! You will learn a lot.

The writer is a BA student.

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