Pakistani dramas are emerging from a slump. After a period of stagnation and repetitive scripts, we are finally seeing new stories with substance. Big-budget dramas featuring prominent star casts are now airing on various channels. Each time slot is highly competitive, with diverse stories from different genres being showcased on prime-time television.
Pakistani dramas have made a comeback, exploring various genres. While love stories featuring angst and toxic heroes tend to engage audiences, it is the unique narratives that leave a lasting impact and keep viewers coming back week after week. Here is a list of currently airing dramas on different channels that have captured viewers’ attention:
Main Manto Nahi Hoon
Writer: Khalil ur Rehman Qamar
Director: Nadeem Baig
Main Manto Nahi Hoon is a Pakistani drama that is airing on ARY Digital. The drama brought back the successful package of Khalil ur Rehman Qamar, Nadeem Baig, and Humayun Saeed. This is not a typical story of saas-bahu but a tale of rivalry between two prominent families. The show has highlighted loopholes in Pakistani law and order and how life is cheaper than a bag of chips here if you have money in your pocket. Some controversial themes, such as teacher-student romance, are also subject to considerable debate. What makes Main Manto Nahi Hoon a powerful watch is the presence of senior actors like Saima Noor, Babar Ali, and Asif Raza Mir, who have brought old-school charm back to the screens. This one is a must-watch this season for great performances and intrigue value.
Jama Taqseem
Writer: Sarwat Nazir
Director: Ali Hassan
Jama Taqseem is a new Pakistani drama that has started airing on Hum TV. Mawra Hocane and Talha Chahour are paired together for the first time in this family saga. The drama tells a timeless tale that many find realistic and relatable, as numerous women have shared similar experiences. Jama Taqseem addresses the toxicity that can exist within joint families and sparks a debate about finding a balance between respecting elders and seeking personal freedom.
Jinn Ki Shadi Unki Shadi
Writer: Syed Nabeel
Director: Saif e Hassan
Jinn Ki Shadi marks Pakistan’s entry into the horror-comedy genre. Starring Wahaj Ali and Sehar Khan, this drama features a fresh pairing that has captured the audience’s attention. The show offers something unique for Pakistani viewers, intertwining the paranormal with everyday life and utilizing a commendable level of VFX, making it an enjoyable experience for everyone. Wahaj Ali has returned to the comedy genre, and his fans are delighted to see him break away from the Devdas character he has portrayed in his previous three projects.
Sher
Writer: Zanjabeel Asim Shah
Director: Aehsun Talish
Sher brought Danish Taimoor back in a prominent role as a character associated with the green flag, showcasing his performance skills. He is paired for the first time with Sarah Khan, and fans have greatly appreciated their chemistry. The storyline bears similarities to the beloved classic The Lion King, which has helped audiences connect with it on a deeper level. This season, the drama has broken viewership records, making it a must-watch, especially for fans of Danish Taimoor.
Sanwal Yaar Piya
Writer: Hashim Nadeem
Director: Danish Nawaz
Sanwal Yaar Piya is one of the most highly anticipated Pakistani dramas of the season. This big-budget show has been under production for a few years now. With huge cast changes, it finally came on television on Geo TV. Ahmed Ali Akbar and Hashim Nadeem are teaming up again after Parizaad. Meanwhile, Durefishan Saleem is also making her television comeback post Ishq Murshid. This is a masala drama that people have enjoyed watching. Feroze Khan is another integral part of the storyline, and his fans are happy to see him in another big drama.
Biryani
Writer: Zafar Mairaj
Director: Badar Mehmood
Biryani is a Pakistani drama airing on ARY Digital. The drama has brought back Duniyapur favourites Khushhal Khan and Ramsha Khan as leads. Sarwat Gilani is also back on television, and she has intrigued and captivated the audience from the get-go. Biryani is a slow-burn drama with twists coming out. Fans are loving the overall vibe of the show in addition to how intelligent all the characters are.
Mohra
Writer: Tahir Nazeer
Director: Mohsin Mirza
Mohra is currently airing on Geo TV and features a talented cast including Laiba Khan, Mikal Zulfiqar, Aagha Ali, and Tuba Anwar. This drama addresses significant themes before evolving into a gripping revenge story. It combines elements of excitement and mystery, with Laiba Khan’s character being particularly strong and appealing to the audience. Mohra has won many hearts and maintains a solid viewership thanks to its strong performances and quick pacing.
Case No. 9
Writer: Shahzeb Khanzada
Director: Syed Wajahat Hussain
Case No. 9 is a new drama that has just started airing on Geo TV. This is the very first project written by anchor Shahzeb Khanzada, with Wajahat Hussain as the director. Featuring a strong script and a talented cast that includes Saba Qamar, Faysal Quraishi, Junaid Khan, Naveen Waqar, Aminah Sheikh, Hina Bayat, and others, this drama is definitely a must-watch. Case No. 9 deviates from typical masala dramas, presenting a courtroom story that promises to engage and surprise the audience.
Which of these dramas are you watching? Share in comments!
