Puffball Studios has expanded into the comic book industry with ABIDA, a graphic novel set in a distant future version of Multan where technology and religion are deeply intertwined. The project introduces a distinctive storytelling style described as “sufi-punk”, combining elements of South Asian cultural heritage, spirituality, politics and technology within a futuristic setting. Created by a team led by Arafat Mazhar, the comic follows a story of rebellion in a society where religious influence and technological systems have become closely connected. Its setting combines futuristic architecture and fashion with traditional South Asian and Islamic visual influences, presenting an alternative vision of Pakistan’s cultural identity in a speculative future.
The story follows a society that worships an entity known as Al-Mutahir, which appears to communicate through digital files described as prophecies. These files are stored within individuals known as recordkeepers, whose bodies have been modified to hold data and who are regarded as holy figures. The central character, Abida, and her crew attempt to steal a file from one of these recordkeepers, setting the stage for a data heist that introduces the protagonist’s wider journey. The narrative brings together elements of cyberpunk fiction, digital technology and religious symbolism, using the familiar structure of futuristic science fiction while drawing on cultural references rooted in the region.
The visual direction is a central part of the project, with Urdu neon signage, domed skyscrapers and buildings influenced by Islamic geometric architecture forming the comic’s fictional world. ABIDA is presented as a single-issue release, with two editions available. The standard edition contains 34 pages and is priced at Rs. 1,800, while the 76-page deluxe edition costs Rs. 3,500 and includes interviews with the creative team and concept artwork documenting the development of the sufi-punk aesthetic. The deluxe edition also features a hardbound format and glossy pages. The artwork has been illustrated by Arsalan Rafique, coloured by Samra Shireen and lettered by Breeha Tarar, with Mazhar serving as the creator and writer.
The release marks Puffball Studios’ move into publishing comics through Puffball Comics, extending its work beyond short films such as Sheher-e-Tabassum and Swipe. ABIDA introduces a locally rooted approach to speculative fiction by placing futuristic technology within a setting shaped by Pakistan’s architecture, language, religious traditions and cultural history. Its combination of science fiction and regional influences also opens up possibilities for further storytelling across comics, games and other creative formats. The project’s initial release establishes the setting and central conflict, while its creators have an opportunity to develop the fictional world and characters in subsequent installments.
Follow the SPIN IDG WhatsApp Channel for updates across the Smart Pakistan Insights Network covering all of Pakistan’s technology ecosystem.
