Pakistani dramas have found a global audience, thanks mostly to platforms like YouTube. It is not uncommon for a single episode to rack up over 20 million views within a day, a testament to their massive popularity. But while the love is pouring in, there’s still room for growth. The next step in our storytelling journey lies in breaking free from the overused saas-bahu tropes and embracing bold, original narratives that reflect the complexities of our society.
Lately, Pakistani dramas have been experimenting with the storylines. We have seen shows that broke the formulaic rich boy-poor girl love triangles, saas-bahu sagas, and ishq being the only objective of one’s life. We had stories that mattered, and the audience welcomed them with open arms, breaking the stereotype that viewers only want to see drawing room stories. Here are some of the new Pakistani dramas that are breaking the formula and still receiving high ratings and views:
Qarz e Jaan
Qarz e Jaan is one of the recently concluded Pakistani dramas. The show featured a brilliant cast, including Yumna Zaidi, Faisal Rehman, Sakina Samo, Usama Khan, and Nameer Khan. It addressed important themes such as drug abuse, the lack of justice in elite crimes, and the injustices faced by widows and orphans. Additionally, it highlighted the significance of parenting in shaping both positive and negative characters in society. Remarkably, this drama, which did not follow a standard love story formula, captivated the audience just as much as any mainstream romantic comedy, marking a victory for innovative, non-formulaic storytelling.
Mob Lynching Trilogy
Sultana Siddiqui has been associated with the business of Pakistani dramas for half a century now. She is also the face of Hum TV, and she has given many projects to the country. She took the initiative to produce three hard-hitting series on the increasing crime of mob violence in Pakistan. With Mann Jogi, she showcased how a mosque can stop this crime by playing its vital institutional role in society. Nadaan addressed issues related to drug trafficking and highlighted how the police can prevent such crimes. The third mini-series, Tan Man Neelo Neel, captured national attention by vividly depicting the societal impact of mob lynching. These three mini-series, while lacking glitz and glamour, told realistic stories that were not only well-received but also appreciated by the audience.
Faraar
Faraar is an exciting new drama featuring a remarkable cast. The series explores the lives of individuals who are attempting to erase their identities for various reasons. However, life intervenes, and they must confront the consequences of their choices. The show boasts impressive performances and presents a bold concept that has been well-received by the audience of Pakistani dramas.
In addition to its compelling storyline, the cinematography enhances the emotional depth of the characters’ journeys. The struggles depicted resonate with many viewers, making it relatable and thought-provoking. Overall, Faraar stands out as a noteworthy addition to the landscape of contemporary Pakistani television.
Gentleman
Gentleman is a Pakistani drama that signified Humayun Saeed’s return to television following his role in Mere Paas Tum Ho. The characters portrayed were bold, with the women confidently asserting their voices. The series provided insightful commentary on the contemporary political landscape of Pakistan. While some viewers resonated with the narrative, others expressed differing opinions; nonetheless, it ventured into an innovative genre on television. The audience’s positive reception indicates that a storyline featuring a gangster in love with a strong-willed journalist is just as acceptable as that of a wealthy CEO falling for a timid 18-year-old student.
Parwarish
Parwarish is a compelling new Pakistani drama that is resonating deeply with audiences. It effectively addresses the challenges faced by Generation Z, presenting them in a relatable manner that appeals to younger viewers. The series explores critical themes, including the generational gap between parents and their children, the difficulties young people encounter when trying to communicate their desires and ambitions, and issues like bullying and mental health.
By addressing relevant topics, Parwarish not only entertains but also encourages meaningful conversations about modern parenting and youth experiences. The show’s realistic portrayal of family dynamics, along with its focus on understanding and acceptance, has earned it widespread acclaim. Additionally, its success in topping the TRP charts highlights its significant impact on contemporary Pakistani television.
Meem Se Mohabbat
On the surface, Meem Se Mohabbat may appear to be yet another age-gap Pakistani drama love story that often falls short in terms of depth and substance. However, this show distinguishes itself with its refreshing perspective and engaging storyline. Unlike the typical formula that we often see, the characters’ relationships are built on support and understanding. The parents play a nurturing role, encouraging their children to pursue their dreams, while the sister wholeheartedly strives to ensure the happiness and well-being of her sibling.
In a delightful twist, the aunt (phupho) is depicted as a positive influence rather than a source of conflict, bringing warmth and wisdom to the family dynamic. The narrative takes a bold step as it is the girl who bravely expresses her feelings first, breaking away from conventional portrayals of romance. She finds an unexpected ally in her grandfather, who takes the time to explain the intricacies of love and life, offering guidance instead of criticism. This innovative approach to storytelling not only breathes new life into the genre but also captivates viewers, making Meem Se Mohabbat a drama that broke the formula!
Guru
Guru is a groundbreaking Pakistani drama that tells the story of an intersex individual who serves as the Guru of a khawajasira community and becomes the parent of a young girl. In an unexpected casting choice, Ali Rehman Khan—usually seen in polished, upper-class roles—takes on this deeply emotional and complex character, stepping far outside his usual type.
The series aired on a lesser-known channel, not part of the mainstream “big three,” yet it managed to break through and capture the attention of a wide audience. While the storyline was stretched toward the end, the show still resonated deeply with viewers. Audiences praised its bold storytelling and lauded the way it gave voice to an intersex character’s emotional journey—something rarely, if ever, seen on Pakistani television.
Beyond its portrayal of gender identity, the drama also confronted social prejudices against girl children, adding another powerful layer to the narrative. Its fresh perspective, emotional depth, and willingness to challenge societal norms made it a rare and much-needed departure from the typical themes in local dramas.
Duniyapur
Duniyapur has been dubbed by many viewers as the Mirzapur of Pakistani dramas—and for good reason. With its unflinching portrayal of violence, morally ambiguous characters, and a world where death comes swiftly and brutally, the show carved out a space that few local productions have dared to enter. Despite its dark tone and twisted narrative, it struck a chord with audiences and quickly built a loyal following.
Buzz is already building around a possible second season, with fans eager to find out which characters might return—and how the story will evolve. Duniyapur was a bold experiment, not just in content but also in scale. With a significantly high production budget, the stakes were high, but the risk paid off. The show proved that Pakistani audiences are ready for grittier, edgier storytelling when it’s done right.
Aye Ishq e Junoon
Aye Ishq e Junoon, starring Sheheryar Munawar, Shuja Asad, and Ushna Shah, ventured into rarely explored territory for Pakistani television—a crime thriller. While the genre is often overlooked in local dramas, this series boldly embraced it, and the gamble paid off.
With a gripping storyline and strong performances, most of which hit the mark, the show maintained a suspenseful atmosphere right till the end. Although a few moments dragged, the overall pacing kept viewers on edge, eagerly following each twist.
Audiences responded with enthusiasm. The drama not only racked up impressive YouTube views and ratings but also earned widespread praise for its cast. All three leads were lauded for their compelling portrayals, and the show itself was celebrated for bringing something fresh and daring to the screen.
Khaie
Khaie, which aired on Geo TV, turned out to be an experiment that hit all the right notes. Neither the cast nor the crew anticipated just how big of a phenomenon it would become, but audiences embraced it wholeheartedly.
At the heart of Khaie was a dark, twisted revenge saga, set in a world where every character carried shades of grey. There were no traditional heroes or villains—just deeply flawed individuals driven by pain, power, and vengeance. This moral ambiguity, paired with gripping storytelling, struck a powerful chord with viewers.
Just What the Doctor Ordered!
From its first episode to its last, the drama kept audiences hooked, and the conversation around it hasn’t stopped. It became more than just a hit—it became a cultural moment in Pakistani television, proving once again that bold storytelling resonates when it’s done with conviction.
These dramas are shattering the traditional channel formulas and boldly rewriting the rules. They’re daring experiments—exactly the kind of storytelling Pakistani drama audiences have been craving. The overwhelming appreciation they’ve received is proof that viewers are more than ready for fresh genres and fearless narratives.
Audiences are tired of recycled love triangles and overage actors pretending to be college kids. What they want now are stories with grit, depth, and originality—and these dramas are finally delivering just that.
