Out of all the weird and obnoxious trends that have worked for producers in the recent past, slapping the heroines is hands down the most distasteful one. Unfortunately, the producers are convinced that when a heroine gets slapped, the drama immediately gains more attention than usual. Controversy sells and slaps sell Pakistani dramas even more! This new trend is picking up really fast and some of the heroines have absolutely no problem getting slapped repeatedly. There are others who actually discussed these slaps in detail and are not hesitant to share them on their social media handles. In other words some of these heroines wear these slaps like they would a medal for their outstanding accomplishments. It won’t be wrong to say that being slapped has become the USB of at least two leading actresses of our drama industry.

While watching a negative character get away with the impossible for a painfully long period of time, many of us want to see them getting a tight slap for everything they have done. Such slaps are usually well deserved and they do fit into the story. It is however rather bizarre that even the best heroines who are sweet enough to give you a cavity get slapped as if it is perfectly natural for people to go around slapping others. Some of the negative characters have been slapped so many times in recent dramas that we have reason to believe the writers are convinced that actions speak louder than words! Why show a heated verbal confrontation when the thappars can do the trick!

When our writers show women getting slapped so casually in dramas, it definitely desensitizes the viewers. And those people living outside Pakistan who are watching these dramas must be convinced that hitting women is considered perfectly normal in our society. In contrast, men are never shown being hit in this manner, even if that was the case two wrongs make a right. It basically shows that there is a certain mindset behind showing such scenarios. Even if there are viewers who ‘enjoy’ watching such ‘entertainment’, the writers and actresses involved really should know better.

Here is a list of those Pakistani actresses who got slapped repeatedly in Pakistani dramas.

Minal Khan

If there was an award category dedicated especially to those actresses playing such characters that have gotten the most number of slaps in Pakistani dramas, Minal Khan would’ve been an undefeated champion. We’re not sure if it’s her luck or she deliberately chooses such projects where her characters are subjected to some kind of domestic violence; in some cases severe and in others, just in the form of slaps here and there. It is absolutely safe to believe that every time Minal Khan packs up, she goes home with a red or swollen cheek(s) because of the number of re-takes it must take as well as the number of slaps she receives.

It has now come to a point where Minal Khan has become a laughing stock for receiving so many slaps; in both her dramas that are currently on-air such as Jalan and Nand, the characters of Nisha and Rabi have been slapped a lot of times. Nisha got slapped by her ex-fiance Ahmed, her mother, her sister Misha, her current husband Asfand, and even her sister in law Kinza. Rabi has gotten slapped by her ex-husband Saqib, her ex-sister-in-law Gohar, and her current husband Jahangir. This is just the counting from her dramas that are airing right now, we have not even gone down memory lane and explored Minal Khan’s previous dramas because we’re sure she has been keeping up with the ritual of being the most-slapped character/actress year after year!

Ayeza Khan

Ayeza Khan got slapped by multiple characters in the drama serial Thora Sa Haq and the viewers can never forget the time when Shehwar’s wife in Mere Pass Tum Ho slapped her. In both these dramas, Ayeza Khan played two completely different characters yet her reactions to these slaps were more or less the same. There was an entire debate on the slap she received in Mere Pass Tum Ho and Ayeza Khan did not shy away from sharing her two cents about it. In Thora Sa Haq Seher was the ultimate victim who started getting slap more often when the drama had been on air for more than 15 weeks.

This basically goes to show that when the ratings are going down, these thappars play a major role in making the viewers tune into a drama again. The slap in Mere Pass Tum Ho was a game-changer but the ones shown in Thora Sa Haq were used to add to Seher’s bechargi. The most fun bit was that every time Ayeza’s characters got slapped there was an entire audience whose reactions were captured dramatically!

Ramsha Khan

Ramsha Khan is a very strong performer, she has definitely come a long way and the ease and effortlessness in her dialogue delivery make her a very fine actor. However, Ramsha Khan too is guilty of playing such characters that get slapped and are subjected to domestic abuse. In her drama, Kaisa Hai Naseeban, nudges, pushes, and slaps were a part of Maryam’s daily routine.

In the drama serial Khud Parast, Uswa was married to Hanan who definitely had anger issues, and even in that drama, she got her fair share of slap doses. In her currently on-air drama Ghisi Piti Mohabbat, Samia freshly received a slap across her face when she went a bit all out in front of her mother to prove her point. We’re pretty sure that although Ramsha Khan is a fan of wearing a full face of makeup, considering the number of slaps she receives, she must not be investing a lot of money buying blushes and cheek products!

Yumna Zaidi

Yumna Zaidi is one of the finest actors in the Pakistani drama industry. She is definitely at this stage where she can run the show and even has a lot of say in what her character is put through. Yumna Zaidi definitely gets involved in her characters, because of which she gets to give her 100% and make those character her own. However, at this stage Yumna Zaidi doesn’t seem much comfortable with the idea of receiving slaps from flawed male leads, therefore she has restricted the slap-reception to her parent characters in the drama.

This is the reason in both her recent drama serials Pyar Ke Sadqay as well as Raaz e Ulfat, the characters of Mahjabeen and Mushk received slaps from the father and the mother. When we talk about slaps, we talk about slaps coming in all forms, in every shape and size, from each and every person, therefore getting those from the parents in dramas is pretty wrong as well!

Nausheen Shah

Nausheen Shah is quite vocal about women rights and she herself has a very strong personality, she has spoken against the portrayal of women in Pakistani dramas on different platforms, but it is unfortunate that maybe due to the lack of opportunities for her, she ends up taking up such roles which show her as a helpless woman.

During her promotions of Khud Parast, she was honest in saying that she did not connect with the character of Beenish and did not understand why a woman would stay in a relationship that was toxic and deprived her of basic rights. However, it is understandable that not every actor has the freedom to portray the characters they want to therefore they have to stick with the script but Nausheen Shah too has been one such actor who has been at the receiving end of domestic abuse in her dramas. In the drama serial Khud Parast as well as Bikhray Moti, the characters of Beenish and Faiza were physically abused by their partners!

Sonya Hussyn

Sonya Hussyn has often talked about how ‘selective’ she is while choosing the projects she works in. She wants people to understand that she takes her craft really seriously yet she had absolutely no issue getting slapped not once but twice in two different dramas. It seems like Sonya Hussyn is quite comfortable getting slapped by Zahid Ahmed, perhaps if he was playing the lead in Mere Pass Tum Ho, she wouldn’t have rejected the offer! In Ishq Zahe Naseeb and Mohabbat Tujhe Alvida, these thappars could easily have been avoided yet somehow Sonya Hussyn never had an issue going ahead with the idea.

In both these scenes, her reaction was more or less the same and there was an ‘audience’ present just like in all the other such scenarios. It seems like there can’t be maar peet in these dramas without an audience on set and the director makes sure that everyone’s reaction is captured to increase the ‘intensity’ of the scene because hitting someone is just not intense enough!

Mawra Hocane

Mawra Hocane recently joined the club by getting slapped not once but twice in the drama serial Sabaat. Miraal slapped her twice in front of an entire crowd and although Anaya’s reaction for the first time was slightly more realistic, however, this was yet another unnecessary slap added in the story to get ‘attention’. The second slap was one of the most ridiculous we witnessed in dramas this year. Miraal slapped Anaya once again in front of the entire office and this time around she stayed quiet because she wanted to prove to Hassan that she was a good wife.

This was another one of those thappars that sent out the wrong message – if women have to put up with physical abuse in order to hold their relationships together then it is nothing short of ‘heroism’! It was disgusting how the message of ‘compromising and sacrifice’ was added to this scenario.

Sanam Jung

Sanam Jung’s comeback play Mein Na Janoo was the talk of the town for all the wrong reasons. She put all the becharis to shame and after compromising on quality big time while hosting her morning show, she was pushed to new lows when she was literally beaten with a stick by her blind husband! Even after all this beating, she begged her husband not to leave her. This beating was definitely one-of-a-kind since the hopeless situation this character was already in was probably not enough to reinforce just how majboor and bechari she was. This beating was taken really casually by Saira (Sanam’s character) and we can only wonder why Zahid Ahmed went along with such nonsense.

Zara Noor Abbas

Zara Noor Abbas has only worked in a handful of dramas but even then she managed to get slapped not once but twice. In Khamoshi she played the role of a girl who was sent away by her parents to work in her uncle’s house. The uncle’s wife accused her of stealing her gold and that is when apart from the thappar, she got a good beating! In Zebaish, the thappar was just as casual as many others on this list. Noshi was only surprised for a microsecond when her mother slapped her, she was back to being her ‘cool’ self the next second!

Funny Compilation of Pakistani Actresses Getting Slapped

Isn’t this trend simply unbearable? Share your thoughts in the comments section.

Pakistani drama industry is filled with talented actors and actresses. These are those actors who enjoy the star status because they have given a lot to the industry in terms of their hard work, presence, and such projects that have become unforgettable for the drama viewers. In every era, there are a lot of actors who remain at the top because of their choices as well as by proving themselves on the basis of their craft, performance, and acting skills. These are those actors who are often seen on the TV screens and some of them despite being selective and picky about their projects, always succeed in meeting the expectations of their fans. Any actor or actress gets to enjoy celebrity status because the fans appreciate as well as acknowledge their work and craft and this gives them a ranking of being a popular actor at any given time.

Here is the list of the most popular Pakistani actors right now (the list is in alphabetical order):

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Adnan Siddiqui

Adnan Siddiqui is one of those actors who prove that actors indeed do not have a shelf life. There are so many fans out there who are waiting to see what Adnan Siddiqui has to offer next especially after the kind of dramas he chose to be a part of in 2020. Adnan Siddiqui definitely knows how to stay relevant and in demand. Not only this, even after all these years, he has what it takes to play a leading role whether positive or negative with finesse. His role in Ghughi was yet another reason why he is on the list. He can play commercial roles just as well as those which are not commercial at all. He keeps on experimenting and he always gives every role he plays his best.

Affan Waheed

Affan Waheed has been a part of the industry for a long time but recently, he has changed his style of acting completely lately. Affan has been seen taking up different roles that allow him the margin to perform and show his range as an actor. Affan’s breakthrough drama last year was Do Bol and the way he skillfully played the grey character of Badar showed the viewers what he was capable of and helped him put his name on the map. Affan has now made it obvious that he is stepping out of his comfort zone and more than that, he is making sure none of his characters in back-to-back dramas are similar. He has managed to make a big name for himself over the years and now stands tall as one of the most sought-after actors.

Ahad Raza Mir

He came, he saw, he conquered is the best way to explain Ahad Raza Mir’s few years in the entertainment industry. A talented actor who is wise beyond his years, Ahad Raza Mir never ceases to impress his fans. His acting talent is unquestionably on a par with the biggest names in the industry. Right now, his popularity is only growing. Every project he has ever worked on has been a massive hit and most importantly he gave all these projects his best. Ahad Raza Mir’s choice of projects has been just as good as his acting skills which make him one of those few actors who never disappoint. His unpopularity and fan following is unprecedented especially given the fact that he has not been around for too long.

Ahsan Khan

Ahsan Khan is an experienced actor who has lately been making sure that he gives his fans something to rave about every now and then. Although Ahsan Khan does only one project every year every now and then he gives a performance that leaves a lasting impression. His performance in Udaari gave his acting career a new boost since he decided to do something entirely different from playing a romantic hero even when he could easily take up a more stereotypical role. Right now in Qayamat he is doing an outstanding job of breathing life into a character that has so many different shades. Ahsan Khan’s popularity never dulls down because of his impeccable performances.

Ali Abbas

Ali Abbas’ dialogue delivery, perfect timing, and the confidence with which he translates every single character he plays has made him a fan favorite. He earned a lot of respect and sympathy for playing a kind-hearted head of the family in Kahin Deep Jalay, he also took the viewers by surprise by playing a super supportive husband in Deewangi. The way he played his role in Ghissi Pitti Mohabbat and then his portrayal in Fitrat earned him a newfound recognition. Ali Abbas was always an ace actor but it was only lately that his acting talent got the recognition it deserved.

Ayeza Khan

Ayeza Khan has managed to win so much love from her fans that every drama she is a part of is a hit even if the story is not up to the mark. She has an unprecedented fan following and apart from her acting skills; she is also loved by her fans for her off-screen personality. Ayeza Khan has managed to get herself recognized as a working woman for whom her family comes first. Because of this, more women can relate to her which has led to an increase in her fan following. Ayeza Khan is also really active on social media, which has added to her popularity.

Bilal Abbas Khan

Bilal Abbas Khan is another actor from the younger lot who right now has impressed one and all. After playing an extremely negative role in Cheekh, he did something entirely different in Pyar Ke Sadqay. Right now his role in Dunk has everyone’s undivided attention. Bilal Abbas Khan is also the most versatile actor who knows how to become the character he is playing on-screen. Also, even with the good looks and charm, he decided not to stick with stereotypical roles. Bilal Abbas Khan has already worked with the best directors and stars of the country and proved himself as an actor who is unstoppable.

Danish Taimoor

Danish Taimoor announced a few years back that he was taking a break from television and would only be doing films. However, he was back on television soon enough and he made sure that he was back with a bang. He has been part of some of the biggest dramas and re-branded himself in the best way possible. Danish Taimoor has so far restricted himself to Geo therefore his reach might have been affected because of it. There is however no denying the fact that right now he is one of the best. The viewers like his performances and most importantly his on-screen presence is loved by many.

Farhan Saeed

Farhan Saeed is definitely one such actor who is very selective about his work. He has his reasons because he always wants to be a part of such projects that promote and are based on family values. Farhan Saeed rose to prominence after he appeared in Udaari but what marked his success was the immensely popular series, Suno Chanda, so much so that the audience demanded its second season as well. Farhan Saeed definitely has it in him to draw the attention of the audience and his approach towards embracing his characters definitely makes him an audience favorite.

Faysal Qureshi

Faysal Qureshi has been a part of the industry for years now. The fact that makes him one of the most popular actors is that he continues to experiment and reinvent himself as an actor. Faysal Qureshi definitely likes challenging himself and that gives his fans a reason to look forward to his dramas. He has given one superhit drama after another and has worked really hard to attain and maintain the celebrity status that his fans and drama audience have given to him. Faysal Qureshi is one such actor whose association with any project is enough to create hype and make the fans look forward to the drama.

Feroze Khan

Although, Feroze Khan has only been part of few dramas most of his dramas have been immensely popular because viewers wait for his projects and love watching him perform. His popularity is such that his name alone guarantees viewership. Even though Feroze Khan decided he was going to quit showbiz, he is right now playing the main lead in Khuda Aur Mohabbat which is the biggest drama on any Pakistani television channel right now. His film Tich Button has the viewers excited as well. His popularity cannot be denied since many people tune into the dramas he is a part of because of him.

Hamza Ali Abbasi

Hamza Ali Abbasi’s popularity is undeniable and unprecedented. He is an actor who has worked in a handful of dramas and films yet he enjoys the kind of popularity which few actors are blessed with. His die-hard fans continue loving him despite the fact that he is rarely seen on television. Drama serial Alif definitely added to his popularity since his on-screen appearance after so many years left a lasting impression.

Hania Aamir

Hania Aamir is a young actress who has also been quite selective while working in dramas but every time she has been seen playing the leading role in a drama, the viewers have loved her performances and most of these dramas have been superhits. Hania Aamir’s performance is always full of confidence and her vibrant real-life personality is another reason why people love her.

Hiba Bukhari

Hiba Bukhari made it to this list because of the kind of popularity her projects received recently. Even though she is not the critics’ favorite, fans love her. That is the reason why she has been part of some of the biggest dramas lately and every drama she has been a part of has been a hit. This goes to show that she has the kind of fans who watch every drama she is a part of.

Hira Mani

Hira Mani’s popularity skyrocketed when she played the main lead in the drama serial Do Bol. The on-screen chemistry she shares with her co-stars is another reason why viewers always fall in love with her characters. She emotes so well that she makes the viewers feel everything her character is going through. She is also the reason why most of the dramas she is a part of are always a hit. She makes sure that she chooses her projects really carefully and most often ends up making some really good choices. Her wise and sensible choices definitely add to her fandom.

Humayun Saeed

Humayun Saeed established himself as a credible actor a long time back. Right now he is more relevant than ever after his hit drama serial Mere Pass Tum Ho. Humayun Saeed has the ability to grab the attention of the viewers with his powerful performances and he does especially well in emotional scenes. Even after all these years, Humayun Saeed is the undisputed romantic hero on television. There are very few actors who are considered equally big on the small screen and the big screen. Humayun Saeed keeps on giving his fans something amazing to look forward to and he never disappoints. His popularity cannot be denied and is only increasing with time.

Imran Ashraf

Imran Ashraf has worked really hard to earn this slot by showing versatility and constantly upgrading himself. After giving the best performance of his career in Ranjha Ranjha Kardi, in a challenging role, he mesmerized the viewers once again with his performance in Mushk. Imran Ashraf gained weight for Ranjha Ranjha Kardi and trimmed down considerably to fit into Adam’s role. He takes his acting career really seriously and the amount of hard work he puts into every performance makes every role stand out. Currently, his performance in Raqs-e-Bismil has made the viewers understand yet another complicated character played by him. Imran Ashraf went from being a supporting actor to one of the most loved leading actors in the industry. All his fans and followers have seen him grow over the years. He is equally loved for his down-to-earth nature and the way he interacts with his fans.

Iqra Aziz

Even though Iqra Aziz has been typecast lately and the viewers are waiting to see her in a different role, her popularity cannot be denied. Iqra Aziz managed to make it big in the industry based on her own talent and every single drama she has played the lead in has been popular. If she diversifies her choices, she will be loved even more. Ranjha Ranjha Kardi proved to be a game-changer for her and later on even though Jhooti wasn’t the best drama, it was immensely popular. Right now she is playing the leading role in Raqeeb Se and Khuda Aur Mohabbat.

Imran Abbas

Imran Abbas has been around for many years and in all these years he has evolved as an actor. Although he has been criticized for playing similar roles and rightly so, there is no denying the fact that he is a really popular actor. He is one of the best leading men in the industry whose name alone guarantees TRPs. He also has great acting skills, all he needs to do is to be more selective about the projects he decides to be a part of. Imran Abbas’ on-screen chemistry with his co-actors has also made him one of the best actors right now. He is one of those few leading men in the industry who have the most organic on-screen chemistry with all their leading heroines.

Junaid Khan

Junaid Khan has come a long way after years of hard work and choosing the projects he works in carefully, Junaid Khan truly deserves a spot on this list. He is a top-notch actor who has a massive fan following. He fits into the kind of roles most actors would probably not be very comfortable playing. He has been seen playing different kinds of roles and offered his fans the variety they needed in order to stay interested in what he had to offer next.
This list would be incomplete without him.

Minal Khan

Minal Khan has played the leading role in the most popular dramas recently. After playing roles that were plain and simple, Minal decided to experiment by playing a negative role in the drama serial Jalan. This drama turned out to be the one that generated a lot of criticism but also made Minal Khan more popular than ever. Her performance was loved by the viewers. Minal Khan was always popular but it was only recently that she became even more famous due to her acting projects.

Mirza Zain Baig

Mirza Zain Baig gradually established himself as an actor who can play a variety of roles. He has been part of some of the most popular dramas and he already has the kind of fan base that ensures that his presence alone guarantees viewership. Right now with the tough competition in the industry, it isn’t easy for a new actor to carve his own identity and name but Mirza Zain managed to do just that. Right now, he is undoubtedly, one of the most popular young actors and it is crystal clear that he will only get more popular with time.

Madiha Imam

Madiha Imam has been consistent with her work and although there was a time that she was underrated, she has always impressed the viewers with her craft. Madiha Imam is one such talented actress who always believes in experimenting and likes to do substantial roles that show women as strong individuals who can make their own decisions. Madiha Imam is an effortless actor and she has worked in numerous dramas that brought a lot of appreciation and acknowledgment her way.

Mahira Khan

Mahira Khan is one of the biggest stars and actresses of the Pakistani industry. Drama serial Humsafar brought her so much of fame and success that even after so many years of its release, it has not fizzled away and people love her despite the fact that she has been very selective about her projects. Mahira Khan definitely is one of those actresses whose projects are highly anticipated by the fans and the audience wants to see more of her. Her drama serials Sadqay Tumhare and Bin Roye too had a lot of viewership because of her association with the project.

Mawra Hocane

Mawra Hocane definitely has come a long way and although she started appearing in dramas years ago, she is at that stage where she has a vision and wants to only do such projects that give her a lot of margin to perform as well as offer her a substantial role to play. In her latest drama serial Sabaat, she ended up being the best part of the drama because viewers loved the character of Anaya played by her. Mawra Hocane has now started going for a more realistic approach towards her characters which makes it even more relatable for the audience.

Maya Ali

Maya Ali has made a come back after years and even though she has returned to the TV screens after such a long gap, her fame and success have not faded away, that is because right from the beginning, she made a mark and left an impression that she is a very confident actress who has it in her to make any character her own. She is currently being seen in Pehli Si Mohabbat and with each passing episode, making the viewers fall in love with her. Maya Ali has worked really hard and has come a long way, she has projected herself with utmost grace and charm which has made her name engraved in the minds of the drama viewers.

Mohib Mirza

Mohib Mirza has been a part of the industry for a long time now but last year, his drama serial Dushman e Jaan ended up being a breakthrough in his career. Mohib Mirza has been very selective about his work right from the beginning but this project put his name on the map and gave the audience enough reasons to see Mohib Mirza in a very different light. Mohib Mirza’s phenomenal acting spoke volumes and got the viewers engaged, this is the reason his upcoming drama serial Neeli Zinda Hai is already getting a lot of attention and is highly anticipated because the viewers expect nothing but the best from him.

Neelam Munir Khan

Neelam Munir rose to prominence with her drama serial Dil Mom Ka Diya but after that, her graph went higher and she continued to impress with one phenomenal performance after another. The most impressive aspect of Neelam Munir Khan’s approach is that she makes sure none of her projects, characters, or performances are the same and she likes to bring something new and different to the table. Over the last couple of years, she has given one impressive performance after another which definitely has put her in the lead and make her one of the popular actors right now.

Ramsha Khan

Ramsha Khan is yet another actress whose realistic and emotional acting leaves the viewers in awe of her talent and craft as an actor. Ramsha Khan also believes in experimenting this is why she has done a variety of characters in such a short span of time. She has done almost all sorts of characters from positive to negative to boisterous to a subdued and oppressed young girl, but she shined in every single character and proved that she is a force to be reckoned with, which is why she is now one of the highly sought-after actresses of Pakistani drama industry and has become quite popular as well.

Saba Qamar

Saba Qamar is another big name in the Pakistani drama industry. Although Saba Qamar has now ventured towards movies the fact remains that every time she decides to a TV drama, her fans and drama audience always get excited. Saba Qamar has a lot of dramas to her credit and this is why, it is a given that no matter which project she will choose, she will take it to the next level, firstly with her presence and then with her acting skills. Saba Qamar is one of those Pakistani actresses whose fame and success only multiply and people want to see more of her.

Sajal Aly

Sajal Aly is one of the biggest celebrities in the Pakistani showbiz industry. Although she has been a part of the industry for a long time now the way she continues to impress with her phenomenal performances gives her fans all the more reasons to appreciate her. Sajal Aly is a measured actor that leaves the audience mesmerized with her craft. There has not been a single character under the sun that Sajal Aly hasn’t performed. The way she approaches her characters and adds so much depth with her minute expressions and flawless acting makes it quite exciting to see her performance. She enjoys a huge fan following but the fact also remains that over the years, she has given a lot to the drama industry and audience as well.

Sami Khan

Sami Khan is one of the consistent and top actors of the Pakistani drama industry. After playing the second lead for years, Sami reinvented himself and took the seat of the main lead and he has been doing justice to the characters that are assigned to him. Although in some of the dramas, Sami Khan still plays the second lead he makes it more about the character and his performance which shows his dedication and sincerity towards his work. Over the years, Sami Khan has grown comfortable in front of the camera and enjoys doing such characters that challenge him as an actor. His performances in Ishq Zahe Naseeb, Inkaar, and Saraab have been incredible.

Sana Javed

Sana Javed is one of the top actors of Pakistani dramas currently, not only because of her choice of projects but also because of how far she has come in terms of acting. Over the last few years, she has shown that she has matured as an actor and that shows in her choice of projects too. Sana Javed impressed the audience with her performance in the drama serial Ruswai and is the currently on-air drama serial Dunk, she has given a spine-chilling performance that has wowed the viewers. Sana Javed has emerged as one of the strong performers that definitely makes the viewers excited for her projects.

Sarah Khan

Sarah Khan has been consistent with her performance and she is one of the most loved and respected celebrities in the Pakistani drama industry. Sarah Khan is not only loved by her fans but also by the drama viewers because they enjoy her presence on TV screens. Sarah Khan has done all kinds of dramas, some of which have been quite popular and others not so much but Sarah Khan on her own has always grabbed appreciation for playing her bit with a lot of dedication and hard work. She is currently being seen in Raqs e Bismil and is getting critical acclaim. Her performance in the drama serial Sabaat also impressed the viewers.

Shahzad Sheikh

Shahzad Sheikh definitely has come a long way. It has taken him a lot of time to actually get comfortable in front of the camera. Although Shahzad Sheikh was one of those actors who was always and constantly seen on TV screens, he was unable to really grab the attention of the viewers however recently, he has become a lot more cautious of his choices and does roles that suit his personality and give him margin to perform. Shahzad Sheikh is now seen in the drama serial Phans that has just started airing and has already impressed the viewers with his new approach. It is about time that Shahzad Sheikh pushes himself as an actor and performs out of his comfort zone because he is more than capable of doing that.

Syed Mohammad Ahmed

Syed Mohammad Ahmed has been a part of the industry for a long period of time, first as a writer and now as an actor. He has done a lot of roles and has shone in all of them. He is usually seen as a warm father figure who has nothing but positivity to offer but he makes sure to bring in so much depth and dimension to his performances which make him stand out. Another endearing aspect of his performances is his profound and heart-touching dialogues which resonate with the viewers, making his performance all the more special. At this stage of his career, his choices have been so amazing that have put him in the category of one of the top actors of the Pakistani drama industry.

Urwa Hocane

Urwa Hocane is another young actress who is very selective about her TV projects. There was a time when she used to be quite regular but after she started working in movies, she took a break. However, it has worked in her favor because it has now made the audience look forward to her projects even more because they understand that her association with any drama means it is definitely going to be special. Urwa Hocane was recently seen in the drama serial Mushk and it won’t be wrong to say that she carried the drama on her shoulders. The way she performed the character of Guddi made the viewers fall in love with her as an actor. Urwa Hocane has an upcoming drama serial Amanat and the viewers are already excited about it.

Wahaj Ali

Wahaj Ali has definitely come a long way. The more he is appearing in dramas, the more he gets to show that he is now getting comfortable in front of the camera. He definitely has an edge because he is one of those few actors who believe in variety and experiments, this is why he is always seen pushing himself and trying new things. Wahaj Ali has this organic approach towards acting which shows in his portrayals, this is the reason in a short span of time he has become everyone’s favorite, and his popularity has sky-rocketed too.

Yumna Zaidi

There was a time when Yumna Zaidi was an underrated actress in the Pakistani drama industry. She got fame and popularity quite late in her career but what’s amazing is that she never really paid attention to it and continued to do her work with utmost sincerity and grace. Over the last few years, she has really upped her game and has done many different and varied roles, proving her caliber as an actor. She is a flawless performer with the ability to own the characters and doing justice to them. Dar Si Jati Hai Sila, Inkaar, Raaz e Ulfat, Pyar Ke Sadqay, Ishq Zahe Naseeb, these are some of her superhit dramas with memorable performances, which show the range of her craft. She is currently seen in Dil Na Umeed To Nahi and is getting critical acclaim for her acting. She is definitely one of those actresses who are at the top of their game and are quite popular now.

Zahid Ahmed

Zahid Ahmed is another big name in the Pakistani drama industry. Right from the beginning of his acting career, he has always experimented and tried to bring something new to the table, this is why he emerged as a powerful actor who had a range of performing just any kind of character while doing justice to it. Zahid Ahmed has always been quite popular but drama serial Ishq Zahe Naseeb skyrocketed his fame to another level because of his flawless portrayal of Sameer, a character dealing with multiple personality disorder. Zahid Ahmed is definitely of those actors that get the viewers excited for their dramas.

This completes the list of popular Pakistani actors and actresses right now. Which one of these actors is your favorite and whose projects do you look forward to. Please feel free to share your opinion and add the names of those actors to the list, who according to you are quite popular.

There is no denying the fact that the Pakistani drama industry is filled with talented actors. Pakistani dramas have always done well in terms of popularity because of the way they are conceived, written, and executed. However, one of the major factors that play a role in making or breaking the drama is the performances done by Pakistani actors. In the last decade, the Pakistani industry has produced a lot of quality dramas and has brought back the glory they deserved. However, as much as the writers, producers, and directors get together for the joined effort, another level of responsibility lies on the actors because they end up being the main face of the character whose story is being shown.

In order for an actor to give a memorable performance; a lot of hard work, dedication, and homework is required. Their job is demanding because every character requires a unique treatment and especially when the actors embrace their characters, they get to give such performances that stay with the viewers for a long time. This past decade was no different. Pakistani drama viewers got to see a lot of memorable performances done by male actors because of which they also got to prove their craft and skills, also earn love and appreciation of their fans and followers.

It is a great way to start a discussion and walk down the memory lane, and especially because all these actors have done such commendable work, that they deserve another round of appreciation for giving some of the most memorable performances of the decade.

Most Memorable Male Performances of Pakistani Dramas – (2010 to 2020)

2010

Fahad Mustafa – Abdul Qadir (Main Abdul Qadir Hoon)

Fahad Mustafa played a character in Main Abdul Qadir Hoon that went through so many different experiences and emotions. He did exceptionally well enacting every aspect of this character’s personality on screen. He was faultless as the confused and neglected young man. He was equally convincing as someone who had finally made up his mind and wanted to live his life on his own terms and conditions. Fahad Mustafa’s solid performance added to the value of his character, without it Abdul Qadir’s journey wouldn’t have had the same impact.

Adeel Hussein – Junaid (Daam)

Adeel Hussein natural approach towards acting and his unique style attracted the viewers instantly when he played Junaid’s character in Daam. He made this character even more likable by bringing out the romantic side of Junaid’s personality in the best manner possible. Not only this, but he was also quite convincing when he was sick and tired of Maliha running his life for him. This was another character which went through several ups and downs, Adeel Hussein did complete justice to all these emotions.

Fawad Khan – Hasan (Dastaan)

Just like Bano, the name of Hassan has been engraved in the minds of the viewers. Fawad Khan’s undeniable screen presence and overall appeal made his performance in Dastaan memorable. The character of Hassan was reserved and serious, there was this aura about him that Fawad Khan created perfectly, doing complete justice to the nature and behavior of Hassan which was the demand of the character. Although Hassan chose a different path, the love and utmost respect he had for Bano was evident every step of the way, through each and every expression of his. Fawad Khan gave a memorable performance as Hassan and showed through all that was going on his mind skillfully.

Faysal Qureshi – Arfeen Abbas (Meri Zaat Zara-e-Benishan)

From being love-stricken to bitter, angry, and then remorseful. The journey that Arfreen lived wasn’t easy and had a huge emotional turmoil that kept on increasing as the days passed by. Faysal Qureshi portrayed the character of Arfeen with a lot of finesse. The story was narrated in flashbacks, therefore to see him aged and then back to the younger self was explanatory of how hard Faysal Qureshi worked in order to do justice to both the time frames and stages of Arfeen’s life. It was a complex character to play that had so much emotionality to it. The love Arfeen had for Saba was absolutely special and he realized her value after he couldn’t be with her. This aspect of his journey was perfectly portrayed because it was obvious that Arfeen regretted turning her back on the one he loved wholeheartedly. Faysal Qureshi’s performance in Meri Zaat Zarra e Benishan definitely is memorable.

Imran Abbas – Jawad (Malal)

The candidness and ease with which Imran Abbas portrayed the character of Jawad went to show that he not only embraced it, but lived and felt it. Jawad was a competent, happy-go-lucky guy who knew when to take a stand and how to prove himself. Jawad never believed in making tall claims but when it came to the practicality and materializing his dreams, he was a go-getter. Imran Abbas’ top-notch performance made this character even more special. It was obvious that Mehreen Jabbar briefed the actors to be at their absolute natural self, because of which they’d be able to do justice to the essence of these characters and it actually worked because Malal happens to be one such drama in which Imran Abbas acted effortlessly, making it one of the memorable performances of the decade as well as his career.

2011

Imran Abbas – Moeez (Mera Naseeb)

Imran Abbas has played only a handful of negative characters in his career and this was one of them. Moeez was an abusive husband who had no respect or love for his wife. Although Imran Abbas fits perfectly often in romantic character, he also nailed this negative character. His portrayal was convincing throughout. He made the viewers hate his character and it was also easy to understand why Moeez was so twisted.

Faysal Qureshi – Moiz (Qaid-e-Tanhai)

Faysal Qureshi is one of the most versatile and naturally gifted actors. His role in Qaid-e-Tanhai stayed with the viewers for a really long time since he played a flawed role to perfection. This was a character that showed Moiz as a young and rather naive man. The story also showed how his personality changed as he grew older and learned the truth. Faysal Qureshi’s performance was so apt that even though his character was not likable, the viewers could relate to his character and were interested in his journey.

Imran Abbas – Akbar (Akbari Asghari)

This has to be one of the cutest performances of Imran Abbas’s career. The character of Akbar was unique, he was an introvert who lived in his own bubble. A practicing Muslim who didn’t hold back in sharing what he felt every time he saw something that was not in line with his thoughts. However, the best part about Akbar was that he strived to make himself a better person and didn’t really focus much on what others did. Despite coming from such a big family, he always minded his own business. Imran Abbas made the character of Akbar look really sweet and the irritated expressions made the viewers feel for him even more. His love story was based on honesty and that was another endearing part of his journey. Imran Abbas played the character of Akbar to perfection and gave a memorable performance.

2012

Waseem Abbas – Murtaza (Zindagi Gulzar Hai)

Waseem Abbas has played many such characters in which he was shown as the selfish father and husband who never realized where he had gone wrong. He has always excelled at playing such characters but he was truly exceptional as Murtaza since his character served the purpose of showing how daughters are looked down upon and how some men can never see just how wrong they are. He was particularly impressive when it came to showing the self-righteous side of his character. He was equally convincing as a ruthless father and husband.

Syed Muhammad Ahmed – Sami (Durr-e-Shehwar)

Would Abba’s character be as memorable as it was if it weren’t for Syed Muhammad Ahmed? We are pretty sure that it wouldn’t have been as gentle and powerful at the same time had Syed Muhammad Ahmed not been so precise in his portrayal. His dialogue delivery made those well-written letters and face-to-face conversations even more emotional. It was because of Syed Muhammad Ahmed’s heartfelt performance that this character became memorable.

Mikaal Zulfiqar – Mansoor (Durr-e-Shehwar)

Mikaal Zulfiqar experiments rarely and his performances are usually more or less the same. Mansoor was like a breath of fresh air as far as Mikaal’s performances are concerned because the way he translated this character on screen was different from what he has usually done. Mansoor made some mistakes but Mikaal made sure he also brought out the slightly funny and lighthearted side of his character stand out as well even though these scenes were few. Mikaal’s overall look for this role and his acting both made the young Mansoor an unforgettable character.

2013

Noman Ijaz – Mian Ghulam Fareed (Ullu Baraye Farokht Nahi)

Noman Ijaz has played all kinds of characters in his career but it can be safely stated that none of his characters were as vile and twisted as Mian Ghulam Fareed. He played a man overcome by greed, lust, and selfishness so convincingly that the viewers despised his character throughout. He completely owned this character which made his performance memorable and his scenes chilling!

Sohail Ahmed – Ishaq Malkana (Ullu Baraye Farokht Nahi)

Sohail Ahmed is known more for his comic timing and wit but the role he played in Ullu Baraye Farokht Nahi was completely opposite from his reputation as a comic actor. Sohail Ahmed truly outshined in a dark and painfully realistic character when he played the role of a feudal who was void of feelings and his ego came before everything else.

Waqas Khan – Ghazanfar (Bari Aapa)

Waqas Khan is rarely seen in dramas when he played Ghazanfar’s role in Bari Aapa, there were so many viewers who wanted to know who he was! He added the kind of charm to his character which very few actors can and made his performance memorable. He left the viewers in awe of his personality and acting both.

Danish Taimoor – Akmal (Rehaai)

Danish Taimoor was so well-suited for playing Akmal’s role in drama serial Rehaai. He nailed this character by bringing out the caring, sensitive, and at times scared side of his character on screen. Out of all the characters he has played to date, this was the most simple yet the most appealing one.

Adnan Jaffer – Janu Baba (Talkhiyaan)

Janu Baba’s character was problematic, it showed how men are raised differently and they can get away with everything. Adnan Jaffer’s performance was outstanding. He looked perfect for the role and translated Janu Baba’s sense of superiority in such an impeccable manner that this continues to be his best performance even now.

Adeel Hussain – Ehtasham (Shukk)

Adeel Hussain owned the character of Ehtasham and gave such a mature and measured treatment. Ehtasham was an ideal husband but his patience was tested and he was put through a lot, which forced him to see life differently. He had to learn some very important lessons along the way and the shift in her attitude and behavior showed how much he had changed. Adeel Hussain continued to bring all these changes in his performances which helped viewers understand Ehtasham’s thought process and ordeals better with every passing stage. Adeel Hussain gave a very strong performance in drama serial Shukk.

Noman Ijaz – Farman (Bari Aapa)

Noman Ijaz played the role of a submissive husband who despite doing so much was always made to feel he wasn’t doing enough. This developed the feeling of wanting to be treated with respect in Farman who eventually found it after getting married the second time. Farman had a lot of emotions but he could never channel them out in front of a controlling wife like Zubeida. Noman Ejaz showed Farman’s mental and emotional state in the best manner possible. It was a layered character that needed a specific treatment to leave an impact and Noman Ijaz’s performance did exactly that.

2014

Hamza Ali Abbasi – Afzal (Pyaray Azfal)

Not only this drama changed everything for Hamza Ali Abbasi, it gave him a chance and a golden opportunity to prove himself as a front-runner. Hamza Ali Abbasi took such a challenging role and did justice to the way the character of Afzal was written. It went through a lot of struggles and met a tragic end. This performance of Hamza Ali Abbasi as Afzal was so impactful that after the last episode aired, it broke the internet and people couldn’t stop talking about both Afzal and Hamza. It was after a long time when the drama viewers took it on social media to trend the drama after it ended, showing how emotionally invested they were in Afzal’s journey. Hamza Ali Abbasi definitely deserves the entire credit for acting this character out brilliantly and making it memorable with his skillful performance.

Noman Ejaz – Bhatti Sahab (Jackson Heights)

Bhatti Sahab was such a fun character with a perfect and complete personality. He was one of a kind and had the aura of being the center of attention. The way Noman Ejaz portrayed the life of a taxi driver in the USA, hailing from Punjab was absolutely brilliant. It won’t be wrong to say that his character and performance was the best aspect of the drama. Noman Ejaz showed what owning and embracing a character looks like because one could not see the character and the actor apart. It definitely is one of the most memorable performances of Noman Ejaz’s acting career.

Syed Jibran – Numair (Chup Raho)

Numair was the first negative character played by Syed Jibran. The viewers were used to watching him in a completely different avatar before this. Although Numair was evil, Syed Jibran’s performance made it the kind of character which grabbed the attention of the viewers. This performance was appreciated so much that Syed Jibran kept on getting offers to play negative characters after the play went on air. He had a difficult time breaking free from the impression this performance left on everyone.

Noman Habib – Bunty (Bunty I Love You)

The person responsible for casting Noman Habib in Bunty’s role deserves as much appreciation as Noman for giving this role his 100 percent. He fit like a glove in the role and was especially convincing when it came to translating Bunty’s naive and carefree side on the screen.

2015

Zahid Ahmed – Rameez (Alvida)

It was the first time Zahid Ahmed took a negative character and did complete justice to it. Right from the beginning, Zahid Ahmed created that mysterious aura about Rameez where despite looking perfect seemingly, it was obvious that there were some issues with his personality. Every expression, every move of Zahid Ahmed was calculated which showed his skills as an actor. In the later stages of the drama when Rameez came to the forefront and his true colors were exposed, Zahid Ahmed left no stone unturned in covering all the intricacies and complexes of Rameez’s personality, making it a memorable performance which paved a way for Zahid Ahmed’s success.

2016

Ahsan Khan – Imtiyaz (Udaari)

It won’t be wrong to say that by far it was the best performance of 2016 given by Ahsan Khan. He was known to be a part of love stories, this is why when viewers got to see Ahsan Khan in such a different avatar, doing completely different to what he was known for before, they were pleasantly surprised. Ahsan Khan also challenged himself and acted brilliantly. Playing the role of a pedophile and then of a criminal was not easy. His performance kept on getting better, although the beginning was convincing in the second half of the drama after the time-lapse, the way Ahsan Khan showcased the physical and neurological injuries that Imtiyaz suffered from was phenomenal and took it to the next level. It won’t be wrong to say that despite being such a negative character, Ahsan Khan succeeded in making a positive impact because he started the conversation and made parents a lot more cautious about child abuse. This definitely has to be one of the most impactful performances of the decade.

Noman Ijaz – Gulistan Khan (Sang e Marmar)

Noman Ijaz knows the art of acting better than anyone else. He is constantly improvising and experimenting because he wants to stay relevant. This is the reason why we saw him in another different avatar in drama serial Sang-e-Mar Mar. His impressive performance and his overall outlook for the drama won him even more fans. This performance restored the fans’ faith in him once again since he made Gulistan Khan the highlight of the drama.

Paras Masroor – Tora Khan (Sang e Marmar)

This was probably the most complex, dark, and layered character of Sang e Marmar and to portray it with finesse was no easy feat. The way Paras Masroor approached this character went to show that he understood it like no other and portrayed it like it truly deserved. Right from the beginning, Paras Masroor made the viewers look forward to what Tora Khan was up to and what he was planning to do next. To have a smile on your face, acting to be innocent all this while your blood is boiling seeing your enemy leading such a comfortable life was what Tora Khan’s journey was all about. Paras Masroor gave one of the best performances of his career and proved himself to be the finest character actor of the Pakistani drama industry.

Tipu Yorguc Sharif – Saif ur Rehman (Sang e Marmar)

Tipu Yorguc Sharif gave one of the most memorable performances of his career in Sang e Marmar as Saif ur Rehman. Right from the beginning, the way he embraced this character was extraordinary. He owned it and gave such a soulful performance. All the shades of Saif ur Rehman’s personality were brilliantly conveyed because he was this over-protective and strict brother who then failed to understand the tacts of his wife. The particular scene in which he is shot got etched in the minds of the viewers because of the particular expression of his. This has to be one of the best performances given by Tipu Sharif to date.

Farhan Saeed – Arsh (Udaari)

Farhan Saeed started his career as a singer but he has also established himself as a versatile actor over the years. He played the role of a young and reckless boy who grows up to be a mature and responsible man in drama serial Udaari. Since this was a coming of age story, Farhan had to change his look and acting depending on the change in the personality of his character. He did so successfully and got himself recognized as a serious actor.

Imran Ashraf – Dastageer (Dil Lagi)

Imran Ashraf was absolutely delightful as the fun and emotional friend in drama serial Dil Lagi. The bromance between him and the lead Mohid was the highlight of the show. Imran Ashraf’s performance was on point, he never went overboard which made Dastageer’s character stand out. This character wouldn’t have had the same impact had Imran Ashraf not performed it so well.

Asif Raza Mir – Mehmood (Muqabil)

Asif Raza Mir has played some of the most dignified roles in his career yet in drama serial Muqabil he decided to play a role which was anything but dignified. Mehmood was an evil man who raped his boss’ daughter and continued to act like he was loyal to them. Asif Raza Mir translated all the shades of this twisted character’s personality impeccably on screen. The viewers couldn’t even have imagined that someone with his personality would be able to pull off such a negative character but he performed so well that he made it one of the most outstanding performances of his career.

Mohsin Abbas Haider – Armaan (Muqabil)

Mohsin Abbas Haider is an organic actor who makes sure that the viewers get to watch him as the character he is playing in all its glory. Armaan’s character was layered, it had an interesting back-story and Mohsin Abbas Haider’s performance made it come alive on screen. The viewers felt for Armaan and he kept them engaged throughout. This was definitely one of Mohsin Abbas’ best performances.

Farhan Saeed – Faisal Khan (Teri Chah Mein)

Farhan Saeed played a different character in Teri Chah Mein, a young man who married a woman much older than her and eventually gets frustrated with her insecurities. Farhan Saeed’s performance was solid throughout the play. He understood his character and made it stand out. His acting was extremely realistic which made Faisal Khan’s character memorable as well.

2017

Feroze Khan – Mir Hadi (Khaani)

Mir Hadi definitely gave Feroze Khan a new recognition. It was a meaty role which brought out the best in this young actor. Feroze Khan was so convincing that in the end, even the viewers were willing to forgive this murderer! The reason for that was that Feroze ensured that Mir Hadi’s repentance and regret were translated as well on screen as his dark side. This was Feroze Khan’s best performance so far.

Sami Khan – Faris (Tau Dil Ka Kya Hua)

Sami Khan has the ability to express emotions through his facial expressions in such a manner that sometimes his acting says more than the dialogues do! When his amazing acting skills were complimented with Khalil-ur-Rehman’s mind-blowing dialogues, Faris became a character the viewers couldn’t help falling in love with. Some of these scenes were so well acted that they will be never forgotten.

Sajid Hassan – Sadiq (Mubarak Ho Beti Hui Hei)

Sajid Hassan has played all kinds of characters in his vast career and every time he adds something unique to these characters, that is why his performances almost always leave a lasting impression. In drama serial Mubarak Ho Beti Hui Hei he played a negative character of a man who kicks his wife out of the house because she keeps on giving birth to girls and he wants a son. Sajid Hasan’s portrayal of a cruel father and husband will always be remembered as the perfect example of all such people who mistreat their daughters and do not value them.

Sami Khan – Hamza (Aisi Hai Tanhai)

Sami Khan’s performance in Aisi Hai Tanhai was the best part of the drama. His character’s development and the journey was really engaging and emotional, Sami Khan made it memorable by breathing life into this character. Some of these scenes were so powerful that the viewers who watched the drama will never forget Sami Khan’s performance in these scenes.

Imran Abbas – Hammad (Khuda Aur Mohabbat)

Imran Abbas was in both the seasons of Khuda Aur Mohabbat, this is why his performance was on the next level when the second season aired because he well and truly understood the character of Hammad, his struggles, his emotions and most importantly, his love for Emaan. Imran Abbas gave such a soulful performance that made the viewers feel for Hammad every step of the way. His expressions were calculated and in so many instances, his eyes spoke louder than words. This character was not easy to portray but Imran Abbas not only gave a phenomenal performance but made it a memorable one as well.

Noman Ijaz – Joyee (Dar Si Jati Hai Sila)

Noman Ijaz is one of the finest actors of the Pakistani drama industry, therefore it is always expected from him to give one best performance after another. However, in Dar Si Jati Hai Sila, he outdid himself and yet again proved that he is Nomaz Ejaz, one of the best actors of the country. The character of Joyee was creepy, he was a pervert while still having a humane side to him which only emerged when he saw the young boy he assumed was his own child. His expressions, the overall getup, and even the body language were molded to fit the character of Joyee and only Noman Ejaz could do that, making it a memorable performance of the decade.

Sami Khan – Hassan (Khudgarz)

In Khudgarz, Sami Khan came to the forefront like never before. Although Sami Khan has played a variety of roles in Khudgarz, his performance was on another level. Sami Khan is a measured and very mature actor, therefore it was easy for him to portray such a difficult and complex character of Hassan to perfection. Sami Khan made the viewers resent Hassan for his selfishness and negativity but in the end, he still made it easy to feel for him when he started walking on his way to redemption and rediscovery. All those scenes where Hassan shed tears either out of sheer anger or out of regret were some of the best moments of the drama. Sami Khan definitely gave a brilliant and memorable performance as Hassan in Khudgarz.

Imran Ashraf – Shammo (Alif Allah Aur Insaan)

Imran Ashraf has always been known for being one of the best character actors the Pakistani drama industry has produced. He always puts his heart and soul in all the characters that he plays. It was only Imran Ashraf who could play the character of Shammo with so much finesse that he made Shammo come across as an absolutely beautiful character who was finding his path and identity. In the later stages of the drama when Shammo becomes a famous makeup artist, that entire change in his body language, his mannerisms, and personality showed how keenly Imran Ashraf studied this character and adapted it. Shammo’s character was one of the best aspects of Alif Allah Aur Insaan.

Azfar Rehman – Parvez (Nazr e Bad)

Driven by the obsessive love for his cousin Maham, Parvez ends up resorting to the unforgivable sin of becoming a black magician. Parvez does everything to bring miseries in Maham’s life so that she ends up with him. Azfar Rehman showed all the shades of Parvez’s personality flawlessly. He was always a complex and complicated soul who just had one goal in life, which was to get married and give Maham the life he thought she deserved. Parvez never thought about the rights and wrongs and that was his biggest flaw. All the scenes where Parvez did magic and then transformed into a regular husband madly in love with his wife when to show his range as an actor as well as his grip on the character. This was definitely a very strong and memorable performance given by Azfar Rehman because he was the one who kept the audience hooked to the drama right until the end.

Ehtashaamuddin – Abbi (Yakeen Ka Safar)

Ehtashamuddin is not only an ace director but he proved what a refined actor he is when he played the character of Abbi in Yakeen Ka Safar. The flow of his dialogues with a very distinct accent showed that he embraced this character and was very much into it so that he could translate it on screen effortlessly. Abbi’s character was not at all ideal but the performance given by Ehstasshamuddin absolutely was. He was a strict husband who never truly understood what it meant to be an ideal partner. He just saw his wife as a doormat and treated her like a nobody. He thought the monetary comfort was enough of a compensation for all that he put her through but after her death, he realized how wrong he was. It in all honesty was a treat seeing the range of emotions Abbi’s character offered throughout his journey.

Adnan Jaffar – Jimmy (Ye Raha Dil)

Adnan Jaffar played the role of a fashion designer and personal stylist of fashion models in Ye Raha Dil. His character was all about sass and style. The way Adnan Jaffar approached and portrayed this character was fantastic because only he could make Jimmy look so cute. There was not even a single instance in the entire drama where Adnan Jaffar took his execution as Jimmy overboard, he stayed within the realm of reality and still portrayed Jimmy with a lot of elegance and quirk, making it a memorable performance of his career this decade.

2018

Imran Ashraf – Bhola (Ranjha Ranjha Kardi)

There’s no denying the fact that this particular performance of Imran Ashraf broke all the records and brought him the attention he well and truly deserved as an actor. Although Imran Ashraf had already established his name and himself as a refined character actor, in drama serial Ranjha Ranjha Kardi, he took his performance and acting skills to the next level. The way he portrayed every single emotion of Bhola with minute precision and intricacy showed that he truly believed in getting the story of this character heard. Imran Ashraf did not just perform Bhola but wanted to start a conversation about it. This has been one such performance which is a rarity on Pakistani television, therefore it is going to stay with the viewers for a long long time.

Kashif Mehmood – Nusrat (Ranjha Ranjha Kardi)

Kashif Mehmood portrayed the character of a selfish and manipulative person who didn’t mind using people as a stepping stone to get ahead in life. Nusrat had no shame in acquiring the wealth that didn’t belong to him, that too at an expense of his nephew’s mental and physical health. Kashif Mehmood is also a famous character actor, therefore it was expected of him to give a convincing performance. However, in Ranjha Ranjha Kardi, he outdid himself to an extent that he actually made people look forward to his scenes and all that Nusrat’s character was planning.

Mohsin Abbas Haider – Dabeer (Meri Guriya)

Mohsin Abbas Haider’s performance and character both in drama serial Meri Gurya were terrifying. His mind-blowing performance in the drama made his character look as vile as it needed to look. Sometimes actors underplay negative characters but Mohsin Abbas definitely did not do that. His chilling performance made it difficult for some of the viewers to sit through his scenes because they were so disturbing.

Farhan Saeed – Arsal (Suno Chanda)

Farhan Saeed’s comic timing and the way he delivered the dialogues in Punjabi in Suno Chanda won him more praise than any other character he has played. He proved that he could do comedy just as effortlessly and impressively as serious acting. He made Arsal’s character an absolute delight to watch.

Syed Jibran – Sahir (Ranjha Ranjha Kardi)

Syed Jibran’s performance in Ranjha Ranjha Kardi kept the viewers guessing for the longest time. The viewers were wondering right till the middle whether Sahir was the good guy or the bad one! Later on in an interview, Syed Jibran revealed that the director had asked him to do just that and it goes without saying that he excelled in it. Sahir had the viewers undivided attention partially because of the way Syed Jibran translated this character on screen.

Sami Khan – DJ (Suno Chanda)

Pakistani drama industry is blessed with many talented child stars but there are few which truly leave their mark. Sami Khan is one such child star, who truly proved to be the star of the show in Suno Chanda. His overflowing confidence went so well with the fun and bubbly character he played in the drama. His portrayal was thoroughly entertaining and never over the top which is why viewers looked forward to DJ’s scenes.

2019

Adnan Siddiqui – Shehwar (Mere Pass Tum Ho)

It won’t be wrong to say that Adnan Siddiqui always impresses whenever he plays a character such as Shehwar’s. This time around however his screen presence was even more remarkable so much so that even at this point in his career he won more appreciation for this performance than he had for any other in the past.

Ahmed Ali Akbar – Shehryar (Ehd-e-Wafa)

Ahmed Ali Akbar was simply adorable as Shehryar. His performance gave him new-found recognition and love from the viewers. He made the viewers relate to his journey even when his character was not getting a lot of screen time. His expressive eyes translated the true emotions of his character superbly.

Ahad Raza Mir – Saad (Ehd-e-Wafa)

Ahad Raza Mir can make you hate his character and love him at the same time! He makes sure that his performances or the characters he plays are never black and white. He was outstanding as Saad right from the beginning. He showed how Saad was like as a friend, son, and as someone who was in love with precision.

Wahaj Ali – Shariq (Ehd-e-Wafa)

All of us who have watched Ehd-e-Wafa will never forget that one scene in which Shariq’s sister hits him. But that wasn’t the only scene that showed Wahaj Ali’s brilliant performance in Ehd-e-Wafa. He performed superbly in the entire drama and made Shariq’s journey worthwhile.

Rehan Sheikh – Hafiz Illyas (Inkaar)

Rehan Sheikh is a remarkable actor who never ceases to impress. He was especially amazing as Hafiz Illyas in Inkaar. He helped the viewers feel the internal struggles of a father and also his courage. This was a beautifully written character and Rehan Sheikh did justice to it.

Sami Khan – Shayan Malik (Inkaar)

Sami Khan’s warm and powerful performance in Inkaar will never be forgotten. Even when he is playing a character which isn’t faultless, he does great but this character was actually written in such a way too that it was easy rooting for Shayan. Sami Khan obviously added those emotional touches to his character which made his performance memorable.

Humayun Saeed – Danish (Mere Pass Tum Ho)

Humayun Saeed had to showcase the pain of a husband who got betrayed by his wife and also the only woman he loved with all his heart. It was well established how much he had loved Mehwish and how his entire life revolved around him. It was heart-breaking for him to find out that his love was not and never enough for her and that was something he found hard to deal with. Although after Mehwish leaves, Danish tries to move on in life but the pain and the emptiness in the eyes of Humayun Saeed was a depiction of how broken Danish was despite all the attempts of trying to take his mind off and come to terms with the truth. Humayun Saeed lived this character and it was evident every step of the way as Danish’s story progressed, making it a memorable performance of his career.

Zahid Ahmed – Sameer (Ishq Zahe Naseeb)

Zahid Ahmed has always been one of those actors who do not shy away from challenging themselves when it comes to their skills and craft. Zahid Ahmed knew he was picking up such a character which was a rarity to have been seen in Pakistani television. It was obvious that the team of Ishq Zahe Naseeb did not know what to expect but the way Zahid Ahmed performed the characters of Sameer, as well as Sameera, was so convincing that people could not stop holding back and got interested in his journey. It was because of his phenomenal performance that the audience showed acceptance towards a character like Sameer because he made the multiple personality disorder come alive on the screens as well as showed what a person goes through. Zahid Ahmed has given the strongest performance of his career in Ishq Zahe Naseeb.

Ahad Raza Mir – Amaanullah (Ye Dil Mera)

Amanullah was suffering from PTSD because as a child he saw his entire family getting killed. It was after his entire world was turned upside down, Amaan used the hatred for Meer Farooq Zaman as a fuel to keep going. As much as Amaanullah strengthened himself, he had those moments where he felt weak and vulnerable because he could not cope up with the burden of losing his family and on top of that witnessing their brutal killings. Ahad Raza Mir is also one of those few young actors who believe in challenges and variety, this is why it was very much expected from him that he would perform it brilliantly but as the drama progressed, Ahad Raza Mir kept on outdoing himself. Despite being a dark and grey character who got married due to his ulterior motives, all the things that Amaan did seemed justified.

Hamza Ali Abbasi – Momin (Alif)

As soon as the casting of Alif was announced, the fans who had read the novel were already excited because they were of the opinion that Hamza Ali Abbasi will be able to do justice to the character of Momin. It rarely happens that the drama ends up exceeding the expectations of the novel readers because of its perfect execution and team Alif did leave any room for error and ended up pleasing the viewers. Those who had read the novel knew about the character but those who were only watching the drama without the hint of what the story was about, even they could understand why Momin’s character was like that. Hamza Ali Abbasi embraced the character and lived it every step of the journey, which helped him in conveying it so beautifully.

Saleem Mairaj – Sultan (Alif)

Saleem Mairaj is a refined and measured actor of the Pakistani drama industry. All the performances that he has given so far have always been flawless and the same goes for his performance in drama serial Alif as Sultan. Saleem Mairaj played the role of a makeup artist and a confidant of Husn e Jahan who was madly in love with her. There were nuances that clearly depicted all the things that Sultan wanted to confess but never had the courage to do so. Sultan was a loyal friend who kept his promise. This character was not only warm but beautifully written. Saleem Mairaj’s flawless portrayal made it one of the best performances of the decade.

Muneeb Butt – Ahmed (Kaisa Hai Naseeban)

Muneeb Butt has worked really hard to prove his mettle as an actor. He has appeared in a lot of dramas, sometimes as a protagonist, and at times as second lead. Muneeb Butt has come a long way and after playing such varied roles, he put his experience to good use when he played the character of Ahmed in Kaisa Hai Naseeban. The character of Ahmed was the kind that the viewers have already seen before but the way Muneeb Butt made it look so real and natural was a showcasing of his talent. Ahmed was a complex character who didn’t mind oppressing the weak. There was some niceness in him but it could not come through because his negativity dominated his personality. Muneeb Butt portrayed this character with a lot of finesse, making it a memorable performance of his career so far.

Usman Mukhtar – Altamash (Anaa)

Anaa was Usman Mukhtar’s first play and the character he played was actually quite complex. His unique acting style went so well with this character. There were so many fans who were in awe of his cold yet appealing portrayal. He made Altamash’s character charming and mysterious at the same time. It was at times likable and at other times you did not want Izza to end up with someone like him! An interesting package overall, Usman Mukhtar made the most of it and that is why this list would be incomplete without him.

2020

Syed Muhammad Ahmed – Mehmood (Ruswai)

Syed Muhammad Ahmed has the ability to make you fall in love with his characters almost effortlessly. In Ruswai he did just that. The viewers felt an instant connection with his character and watching his character die was one of the most heart-wrenching parts of the drama.

Omair Rana – Sarwar (Pyar Ke Sadqay)

Omair Rana made the viewers hate Sarwar’s character so much that many of us continued to watch the drama just to find out how Sarwar was going to be punished in the end. He also added the much-needed charm in his character which made it easier for the viewers to understand why Mansoora fell for his lies for so long. This was definitely one of those performances which will be remembered for a long time.

Bilal Abbas Khan – Abdullah (Pyar Ke Sadqay)

Bilal Abbas Khan was actually reluctant when he was offered this project but the way he acted made it look like he was so sure about what was expected from him. His facial expressions and certain gestures went so well with this confused and timid character. Bilal Abbas Khan proved his versatility by nailing this character and making it memorable.

Mohib Mirza – Hatim (Dushman e Jaan)

Dushman e Jaan was the kind of drama that aired and became the talk of the town. The character of Hatim was flawed and had a lot of layers but the best part about him was that he believed in making amends and becoming a better person. The character of Hatim went through a drastic change in his life, his entire journey was full of ups and downs but all of it was a slow transition. The way Mohib Mirza adapted this character and portrayed it soulfully not only impressed the viewers but allowed them to see him in a completely different light. Mohib Mirza dominated the entire show and continued to wow the fans of Dushman e Jaan. Mohib Mirza is one of the finest actors of the Pakistani drama industry, however, this performance put his name on the map and showed that he is a force to be reckoned with.

Waseem Abbas – Imtiyaz (Kashf)

It won’t be wrong to say that in a grim melodrama like Kashf, the way Waseem Abbas has naturally brought in the element of comic relief is absolutely phenomenal. The way Imtiyaz’s meanness and selfishness have been portrayed by Waseem Abbas makes it a treat to watch him. From someone who had zero aspirations to now being the one who dreams big and continues to push through is an entire journey. Waseem Abbas is a phenomenal and finest actor of Pakistan but his performance in Kashf is on another level.

Danish Taimoor – Sultan Durrani (Deewangi)

When the drama began, no one actually could imagine that Sultan Durrani would turn out to be a tragic hero. He is a layered and dark character who has ruined his life because he failed to see the other side of the picture. Driven by ego and hatred, he ended up committing a lot of mistakes but one thing that remained constant in his life was the love that he had for Nageen, which he realized when it was already too late. Sultan wants to be with Nageen but he also holds her responsible for all of the losses he had to bear in his life, and that puts him in a very confused state of mind. At one moment he is feeling concerned for Nageen but the very next moment he just wants to own her so that he can control her and put her through misery again for the hardships that he has faced. This entire thought process and shifts in his behavioral patterns have been portrayed with so much clarity by Danish Taimoor that it definitely is one of the best performances of his career to date. Although Danish Taimoor takes up more or less similar roles the character of Sultan gave him a lot of margin to perform and outdo himself, which he successfully did.

With this, we complete the lists dedicated to the memorable characters and performances of the decade. We hope you had a great time reading and revisiting these memorable characters. Which of the performances were unforgettable for you? Please add more to the discussion.

Zahra Mirza & Fatima Awan

There is no denying the fact that the Pakistani drama industry is filled with talented actors. Pakistani dramas have always done well in terms of popularity because of the way they are conceived, written, and executed. However, one of the major factors that play a role in making or breaking the drama is the performances done by Pakistani actors. In the last decade, the Pakistani industry has produced a lot of quality dramas and has brought back the glory they deserved. However, as much as the writers, producers, and directors get together for the joined effort, another level of responsibility lies on the actors because they end up being the main face of the character whose story is being shown.

In order for an actor to give a memorable performance; a lot of hard work, dedication, and homework is required. Their job is demanding because every character requires a unique treatment and especially when the actors embrace their characters, they get to give such performances that stay with the viewers for a long time. This past decade was no different. Pakistani drama viewers got to see a lot of memorable performances done by male actors because of which they also got to prove their craft and skills, also earn love and appreciation of their fans and followers.

It is a great way to start a discussion and walk down the memory lane, and especially because all these actors have done such commendable work, that they deserve another round of appreciation for giving some of the most memorable performances of the decade.

Most Memorable Male Performances of Pakistani Dramas – (2010 to 2020)

2010

Fahad Mustafa – Abdul Qadir (Main Abdul Qadir Hoon)

Fahad Mustafa played a character in Main Abdul Qadir Hoon that went through so many different experiences and emotions. He did exceptionally well enacting every aspect of this character’s personality on screen. He was faultless as the confused and neglected young man. He was equally convincing as someone who had finally made up his mind and wanted to live his life on his own terms and conditions. Fahad Mustafa’s solid performance added to the value of his character, without it Abdul Qadir’s journey wouldn’t have had the same impact.

Adeel Hussein – Junaid (Daam)

Adeel Hussein natural approach towards acting and his unique style attracted the viewers instantly when he played Junaid’s character in Daam. He made this character even more likable by bringing out the romantic side of Junaid’s personality in the best manner possible. Not only this, but he was also quite convincing when he was sick and tired of Maliha running his life for him. This was another character which went through several ups and downs, Adeel Hussein did complete justice to all these emotions.

Fawad Khan – Hasan (Dastaan)

Just like Bano, the name of Hassan has been engraved in the minds of the viewers. Fawad Khan’s undeniable screen presence and overall appeal made his performance in Dastaan memorable. The character of Hassan was reserved and serious, there was this aura about him that Fawad Khan created perfectly, doing complete justice to the nature and behavior of Hassan which was the demand of the character. Although Hassan chose a different path, the love and utmost respect he had for Bano was evident every step of the way, through each and every expression of his. Fawad Khan gave a memorable performance as Hassan and showed through all that was going on his mind skillfully.

Faysal Qureshi – Arfeen Abbas (Meri Zaat Zara-e-Benishan)

From being love-stricken to bitter, angry, and then remorseful. The journey that Arfreen lived wasn’t easy and had a huge emotional turmoil that kept on increasing as the days passed by. Faysal Qureshi portrayed the character of Arfeen with a lot of finesse. The story was narrated in flashbacks, therefore to see him aged and then back to the younger self was explanatory of how hard Faysal Qureshi worked in order to do justice to both the time frames and stages of Arfeen’s life. It was a complex character to play that had so much emotionality to it. The love Arfeen had for Saba was absolutely special and he realized her value after he couldn’t be with her. This aspect of his journey was perfectly portrayed because it was obvious that Arfeen regretted turning her back on the one he loved wholeheartedly. Faysal Qureshi’s performance in Meri Zaat Zarra e Benishan definitely is memorable.

Imran Abbas – Jawad (Malal)

The candidness and ease with which Imran Abbas portrayed the character of Jawad went to show that he not only embraced it, but lived and felt it. Jawad was a competent, happy-go-lucky guy who knew when to take a stand and how to prove himself. Jawad never believed in making tall claims but when it came to the practicality and materializing his dreams, he was a go-getter. Imran Abbas’ top-notch performance made this character even more special. It was obvious that Mehreen Jabbar briefed the actors to be at their absolute natural self, because of which they’d be able to do justice to the essence of these characters and it actually worked because Malal happens to be one such drama in which Imran Abbas acted effortlessly, making it one of the memorable performances of the decade as well as his career.

2011

Imran Abbas – Moeez (Mera Naseeb)

Imran Abbas has played only a handful of negative characters in his career and this was one of them. Moeez was an abusive husband who had no respect or love for his wife. Although Imran Abbas fits perfectly often in romantic character, he also nailed this negative character. His portrayal was convincing throughout. He made the viewers hate his character and it was also easy to understand why Moeez was so twisted.

Faysal Qureshi – Moiz (Qaid-e-Tanhai)

Faysal Qureshi is one of the most versatile and naturally gifted actors. His role in Qaid-e-Tanhai stayed with the viewers for a really long time since he played a flawed role to perfection. This was a character that showed Moiz as a young and rather naive man. The story also showed how his personality changed as he grew older and learned the truth. Faysal Qureshi’s performance was so apt that even though his character was not likable, the viewers could relate to his character and were interested in his journey.

Imran Abbas – Akbar (Akbari Asghari)

This has to be one of the cutest performances of Imran Abbas’s career. The character of Akbar was unique, he was an introvert who lived in his own bubble. A practicing Muslim who didn’t hold back in sharing what he felt every time he saw something that was not in line with his thoughts. However, the best part about Akbar was that he strived to make himself a better person and didn’t really focus much on what others did. Despite coming from such a big family, he always minded his own business. Imran Abbas made the character of Akbar look really sweet and the irritated expressions made the viewers feel for him even more. His love story was based on honesty and that was another endearing part of his journey. Imran Abbas played the character of Akbar to perfection and gave a memorable performance.

2012

Waseem Abbas – Murtaza (Zindagi Gulzar Hai)

Waseem Abbas has played many such characters in which he was shown as the selfish father and husband who never realized where he had gone wrong. He has always excelled at playing such characters but he was truly exceptional as Murtaza since his character served the purpose of showing how daughters are looked down upon and how some men can never see just how wrong they are. He was particularly impressive when it came to showing the self-righteous side of his character. He was equally convincing as a ruthless father and husband.

Syed Muhammad Ahmed – Sami (Durr-e-Shehwar)

Would Abba’s character be as memorable as it was if it weren’t for Syed Muhammad Ahmed? We are pretty sure that it wouldn’t have been as gentle and powerful at the same time had Syed Muhammad Ahmed not been so precise in his portrayal. His dialogue delivery made those well-written letters and face-to-face conversations even more emotional. It was because of Syed Muhammad Ahmed’s heartfelt performance that this character became memorable.

Mikaal Zulfiqar – Mansoor (Durr-e-Shehwar)

Mikaal Zulfiqar experiments rarely and his performances are usually more or less the same. Mansoor was like a breath of fresh air as far as Mikaal’s performances are concerned because the way he translated this character on screen was different from what he has usually done. Mansoor made some mistakes but Mikaal made sure he also brought out the slightly funny and lighthearted side of his character stand out as well even though these scenes were few. Mikaal’s overall look for this role and his acting both made the young Mansoor an unforgettable character.

2013

Noman Ijaz – Mian Ghulam Fareed (Ullu Baraye Farokht Nahi)

Noman Ijaz has played all kinds of characters in his career but it can be safely stated that none of his characters were as vile and twisted as Mian Ghulam Fareed. He played a man overcome by greed, lust, and selfishness so convincingly that the viewers despised his character throughout. He completely owned this character which made his performance memorable and his scenes chilling!

Sohail Ahmed – Ishaq Malkana (Ullu Baraye Farokht Nahi)

Sohail Ahmed is known more for his comic timing and wit but the role he played in Ullu Baraye Farokht Nahi was completely opposite from his reputation as a comic actor. Sohail Ahmed truly outshined in a dark and painfully realistic character when he played the role of a feudal who was void of feelings and his ego came before everything else.

Waqas Khan – Ghazanfar (Bari Aapa)

Waqas Khan is rarely seen in dramas when he played Ghazanfar’s role in Bari Aapa, there were so many viewers who wanted to know who he was! He added the kind of charm to his character which very few actors can and made his performance memorable. He left the viewers in awe of his personality and acting both.

Danish Taimoor – Akmal (Rehaai)

Danish Taimoor was so well-suited for playing Akmal’s role in drama serial Rehaai. He nailed this character by bringing out the caring, sensitive, and at times scared side of his character on screen. Out of all the characters he has played to date, this was the most simple yet the most appealing one.

Adnan Jaffer – Janu Baba (Talkhiyaan)

Janu Baba’s character was problematic, it showed how men are raised differently and they can get away with everything. Adnan Jaffer’s performance was outstanding. He looked perfect for the role and translated Janu Baba’s sense of superiority in such an impeccable manner that this continues to be his best performance even now.

Adeel Hussain – Ehtasham (Shukk)

Adeel Hussain owned the character of Ehtasham and gave such a mature and measured treatment. Ehtasham was an ideal husband but his patience was tested and he was put through a lot, which forced him to see life differently. He had to learn some very important lessons along the way and the shift in her attitude and behavior showed how much he had changed. Adeel Hussain continued to bring all these changes in his performances which helped viewers understand Ehtasham’s thought process and ordeals better with every passing stage. Adeel Hussain gave a very strong performance in drama serial Shukk.

Noman Ijaz – Farman (Bari Aapa)

Noman Ijaz played the role of a submissive husband who despite doing so much was always made to feel he wasn’t doing enough. This developed the feeling of wanting to be treated with respect in Farman who eventually found it after getting married the second time. Farman had a lot of emotions but he could never channel them out in front of a controlling wife like Zubeida. Noman Ejaz showed Farman’s mental and emotional state in the best manner possible. It was a layered character that needed a specific treatment to leave an impact and Noman Ijaz’s performance did exactly that.

2014

Hamza Ali Abbasi – Afzal (Pyaray Azfal)

Not only this drama changed everything for Hamza Ali Abbasi, it gave him a chance and a golden opportunity to prove himself as a front-runner. Hamza Ali Abbasi took such a challenging role and did justice to the way the character of Afzal was written. It went through a lot of struggles and met a tragic end. This performance of Hamza Ali Abbasi as Afzal was so impactful that after the last episode aired, it broke the internet and people couldn’t stop talking about both Afzal and Hamza. It was after a long time when the drama viewers took it on social media to trend the drama after it ended, showing how emotionally invested they were in Afzal’s journey. Hamza Ali Abbasi definitely deserves the entire credit for acting this character out brilliantly and making it memorable with his skillful performance.

Noman Ejaz – Bhatti Sahab (Jackson Heights)

Bhatti Sahab was such a fun character with a perfect and complete personality. He was one of a kind and had the aura of being the center of attention. The way Noman Ejaz portrayed the life of a taxi driver in the USA, hailing from Punjab was absolutely brilliant. It won’t be wrong to say that his character and performance was the best aspect of the drama. Noman Ejaz showed what owning and embracing a character looks like because one could not see the character and the actor apart. It definitely is one of the most memorable performances of Noman Ejaz’s acting career.

Syed Jibran – Numair (Chup Raho)

Numair was the first negative character played by Syed Jibran. The viewers were used to watching him in a completely different avatar before this. Although Numair was evil, Syed Jibran’s performance made it the kind of character which grabbed the attention of the viewers. This performance was appreciated so much that Syed Jibran kept on getting offers to play negative characters after the play went on air. He had a difficult time breaking free from the impression this performance left on everyone.

Noman Habib – Bunty (Bunty I Love You)

The person responsible for casting Noman Habib in Bunty’s role deserves as much appreciation as Noman for giving this role his 100 percent. He fit like a glove in the role and was especially convincing when it came to translating Bunty’s naive and carefree side on the screen.

2015

Zahid Ahmed – Rameez (Alvida)

It was the first time Zahid Ahmed took a negative character and did complete justice to it. Right from the beginning, Zahid Ahmed created that mysterious aura about Rameez where despite looking perfect seemingly, it was obvious that there were some issues with his personality. Every expression, every move of Zahid Ahmed was calculated which showed his skills as an actor. In the later stages of the drama when Rameez came to the forefront and his true colors were exposed, Zahid Ahmed left no stone unturned in covering all the intricacies and complexes of Rameez’s personality, making it a memorable performance which paved a way for Zahid Ahmed’s success.

2016

Ahsan Khan – Imtiyaz (Udaari)

It won’t be wrong to say that by far it was the best performance of 2016 given by Ahsan Khan. He was known to be a part of love stories, this is why when viewers got to see Ahsan Khan in such a different avatar, doing completely different to what he was known for before, they were pleasantly surprised. Ahsan Khan also challenged himself and acted brilliantly. Playing the role of a pedophile and then of a criminal was not easy. His performance kept on getting better, although the beginning was convincing in the second half of the drama after the time-lapse, the way Ahsan Khan showcased the physical and neurological injuries that Imtiyaz suffered from was phenomenal and took it to the next level. It won’t be wrong to say that despite being such a negative character, Ahsan Khan succeeded in making a positive impact because he started the conversation and made parents a lot more cautious about child abuse. This definitely has to be one of the most impactful performances of the decade.

Noman Ijaz – Gulistan Khan (Sang e Marmar)

Noman Ijaz knows the art of acting better than anyone else. He is constantly improvising and experimenting because he wants to stay relevant. This is the reason why we saw him in another different avatar in drama serial Sang-e-Mar Mar. His impressive performance and his overall outlook for the drama won him even more fans. This performance restored the fans’ faith in him once again since he made Gulistan Khan the highlight of the drama.

Paras Masroor – Tora Khan (Sang e Marmar)

This was probably the most complex, dark, and layered character of Sang e Marmar and to portray it with finesse was no easy feat. The way Paras Masroor approached this character went to show that he understood it like no other and portrayed it like it truly deserved. Right from the beginning, Paras Masroor made the viewers look forward to what Tora Khan was up to and what he was planning to do next. To have a smile on your face, acting to be innocent all this while your blood is boiling seeing your enemy leading such a comfortable life was what Tora Khan’s journey was all about. Paras Masroor gave one of the best performances of his career and proved himself to be the finest character actor of the Pakistani drama industry.

Tipu Yorguc Sharif – Saif ur Rehman (Sang e Marmar)

Tipu Yorguc Sharif gave one of the most memorable performances of his career in Sang e Marmar as Saif ur Rehman. Right from the beginning, the way he embraced this character was extraordinary. He owned it and gave such a soulful performance. All the shades of Saif ur Rehman’s personality were brilliantly conveyed because he was this over-protective and strict brother who then failed to understand the tacts of his wife. The particular scene in which he is shot got etched in the minds of the viewers because of the particular expression of his. This has to be one of the best performances given by Tipu Sharif to date.

Farhan Saeed – Arsh (Udaari)

Farhan Saeed started his career as a singer but he has also established himself as a versatile actor over the years. He played the role of a young and reckless boy who grows up to be a mature and responsible man in drama serial Udaari. Since this was a coming of age story, Farhan had to change his look and acting depending on the change in the personality of his character. He did so successfully and got himself recognized as a serious actor.

Imran Ashraf – Dastageer (Dil Lagi)

Imran Ashraf was absolutely delightful as the fun and emotional friend in drama serial Dil Lagi. The bromance between him and the lead Mohid was the highlight of the show. Imran Ashraf’s performance was on point, he never went overboard which made Dastageer’s character stand out. This character wouldn’t have had the same impact had Imran Ashraf not performed it so well.

Asif Raza Mir – Mehmood (Muqabil)

Asif Raza Mir has played some of the most dignified roles in his career yet in drama serial Muqabil he decided to play a role which was anything but dignified. Mehmood was an evil man who raped his boss’ daughter and continued to act like he was loyal to them. Asif Raza Mir translated all the shades of this twisted character’s personality impeccably on screen. The viewers couldn’t even have imagined that someone with his personality would be able to pull off such a negative character but he performed so well that he made it one of the most outstanding performances of his career.

Mohsin Abbas Haider – Armaan (Muqabil)

Mohsin Abbas Haider is an organic actor who makes sure that the viewers get to watch him as the character he is playing in all its glory. Armaan’s character was layered, it had an interesting back-story and Mohsin Abbas Haider’s performance made it come alive on screen. The viewers felt for Armaan and he kept them engaged throughout. This was definitely one of Mohsin Abbas’ best performances.

Farhan Saeed – Faisal Khan (Teri Chah Mein)

Farhan Saeed played a different character in Teri Chah Mein, a young man who married a woman much older than her and eventually gets frustrated with her insecurities. Farhan Saeed’s performance was solid throughout the play. He understood his character and made it stand out. His acting was extremely realistic which made Faisal Khan’s character memorable as well.

2017

Feroze Khan – Mir Hadi (Khaani)

Mir Hadi definitely gave Feroze Khan a new recognition. It was a meaty role which brought out the best in this young actor. Feroze Khan was so convincing that in the end, even the viewers were willing to forgive this murderer! The reason for that was that Feroze ensured that Mir Hadi’s repentance and regret were translated as well on screen as his dark side. This was Feroze Khan’s best performance so far.

Sami Khan – Faris (Tau Dil Ka Kya Hua)

Sami Khan has the ability to express emotions through his facial expressions in such a manner that sometimes his acting says more than the dialogues do! When his amazing acting skills were complimented with Khalil-ur-Rehman’s mind-blowing dialogues, Faris became a character the viewers couldn’t help falling in love with. Some of these scenes were so well acted that they will be never forgotten.

Sajid Hassan – Sadiq (Mubarak Ho Beti Hui Hei)

Sajid Hassan has played all kinds of characters in his vast career and every time he adds something unique to these characters, that is why his performances almost always leave a lasting impression. In drama serial Mubarak Ho Beti Hui Hei he played a negative character of a man who kicks his wife out of the house because she keeps on giving birth to girls and he wants a son. Sajid Hasan’s portrayal of a cruel father and husband will always be remembered as the perfect example of all such people who mistreat their daughters and do not value them.

Sami Khan – Hamza (Aisi Hai Tanhai)

Sami Khan’s performance in Aisi Hai Tanhai was the best part of the drama. His character’s development and the journey was really engaging and emotional, Sami Khan made it memorable by breathing life into this character. Some of these scenes were so powerful that the viewers who watched the drama will never forget Sami Khan’s performance in these scenes.

Imran Abbas – Hammad (Khuda Aur Mohabbat)

Imran Abbas was in both the seasons of Khuda Aur Mohabbat, this is why his performance was on the next level when the second season aired because he well and truly understood the character of Hammad, his struggles, his emotions and most importantly, his love for Emaan. Imran Abbas gave such a soulful performance that made the viewers feel for Hammad every step of the way. His expressions were calculated and in so many instances, his eyes spoke louder than words. This character was not easy to portray but Imran Abbas not only gave a phenomenal performance but made it a memorable one as well.

Noman Ijaz – Joyee (Dar Si Jati Hai Sila)

Noman Ijaz is one of the finest actors of the Pakistani drama industry, therefore it is always expected from him to give one best performance after another. However, in Dar Si Jati Hai Sila, he outdid himself and yet again proved that he is Nomaz Ejaz, one of the best actors of the country. The character of Joyee was creepy, he was a pervert while still having a humane side to him which only emerged when he saw the young boy he assumed was his own child. His expressions, the overall getup, and even the body language were molded to fit the character of Joyee and only Noman Ejaz could do that, making it a memorable performance of the decade.

Sami Khan – Hassan (Khudgarz)

In Khudgarz, Sami Khan came to the forefront like never before. Although Sami Khan has played a variety of roles in Khudgarz, his performance was on another level. Sami Khan is a measured and very mature actor, therefore it was easy for him to portray such a difficult and complex character of Hassan to perfection. Sami Khan made the viewers resent Hassan for his selfishness and negativity but in the end, he still made it easy to feel for him when he started walking on his way to redemption and rediscovery. All those scenes where Hassan shed tears either out of sheer anger or out of regret were some of the best moments of the drama. Sami Khan definitely gave a brilliant and memorable performance as Hassan in Khudgarz.

Imran Ashraf – Shammo (Alif Allah Aur Insaan)

Imran Ashraf has always been known for being one of the best character actors the Pakistani drama industry has produced. He always puts his heart and soul in all the characters that he plays. It was only Imran Ashraf who could play the character of Shammo with so much finesse that he made Shammo come across as an absolutely beautiful character who was finding his path and identity. In the later stages of the drama when Shammo becomes a famous makeup artist, that entire change in his body language, his mannerisms, and personality showed how keenly Imran Ashraf studied this character and adapted it. Shammo’s character was one of the best aspects of Alif Allah Aur Insaan.

Azfar Rehman – Parvez (Nazr e Bad)

Driven by the obsessive love for his cousin Maham, Parvez ends up resorting to the unforgivable sin of becoming a black magician. Parvez does everything to bring miseries in Maham’s life so that she ends up with him. Azfar Rehman showed all the shades of Parvez’s personality flawlessly. He was always a complex and complicated soul who just had one goal in life, which was to get married and give Maham the life he thought she deserved. Parvez never thought about the rights and wrongs and that was his biggest flaw. All the scenes where Parvez did magic and then transformed into a regular husband madly in love with his wife when to show his range as an actor as well as his grip on the character. This was definitely a very strong and memorable performance given by Azfar Rehman because he was the one who kept the audience hooked to the drama right until the end.

Ehtashaamuddin – Abbi (Yakeen Ka Safar)

Ehtashamuddin is not only an ace director but he proved what a refined actor he is when he played the character of Abbi in Yakeen Ka Safar. The flow of his dialogues with a very distinct accent showed that he embraced this character and was very much into it so that he could translate it on screen effortlessly. Abbi’s character was not at all ideal but the performance given by Ehstasshamuddin absolutely was. He was a strict husband who never truly understood what it meant to be an ideal partner. He just saw his wife as a doormat and treated her like a nobody. He thought the monetary comfort was enough of a compensation for all that he put her through but after her death, he realized how wrong he was. It in all honesty was a treat seeing the range of emotions Abbi’s character offered throughout his journey.

Adnan Jaffar – Jimmy (Ye Raha Dil)

Adnan Jaffar played the role of a fashion designer and personal stylist of fashion models in Ye Raha Dil. His character was all about sass and style. The way Adnan Jaffar approached and portrayed this character was fantastic because only he could make Jimmy look so cute. There was not even a single instance in the entire drama where Adnan Jaffar took his execution as Jimmy overboard, he stayed within the realm of reality and still portrayed Jimmy with a lot of elegance and quirk, making it a memorable performance of his career this decade.

2018

Imran Ashraf – Bhola (Ranjha Ranjha Kardi)

There’s no denying the fact that this particular performance of Imran Ashraf broke all the records and brought him the attention he well and truly deserved as an actor. Although Imran Ashraf had already established his name and himself as a refined character actor, in drama serial Ranjha Ranjha Kardi, he took his performance and acting skills to the next level. The way he portrayed every single emotion of Bhola with minute precision and intricacy showed that he truly believed in getting the story of this character heard. Imran Ashraf did not just perform Bhola but wanted to start a conversation about it. This has been one such performance which is a rarity on Pakistani television, therefore it is going to stay with the viewers for a long long time.

Kashif Mehmood – Nusrat (Ranjha Ranjha Kardi)

Kashif Mehmood portrayed the character of a selfish and manipulative person who didn’t mind using people as a stepping stone to get ahead in life. Nusrat had no shame in acquiring the wealth that didn’t belong to him, that too at an expense of his nephew’s mental and physical health. Kashif Mehmood is also a famous character actor, therefore it was expected of him to give a convincing performance. However, in Ranjha Ranjha Kardi, he outdid himself to an extent that he actually made people look forward to his scenes and all that Nusrat’s character was planning.

Mohsin Abbas Haider – Dabeer (Meri Guriya)

Mohsin Abbas Haider’s performance and character both in drama serial Meri Gurya were terrifying. His mind-blowing performance in the drama made his character look as vile as it needed to look. Sometimes actors underplay negative characters but Mohsin Abbas definitely did not do that. His chilling performance made it difficult for some of the viewers to sit through his scenes because they were so disturbing.

Farhan Saeed – Arsal (Suno Chanda)

Farhan Saeed’s comic timing and the way he delivered the dialogues in Punjabi in Suno Chanda won him more praise than any other character he has played. He proved that he could do comedy just as effortlessly and impressively as serious acting. (Genuineleatherjackets) He made Arsal’s character an absolute delight to watch.

Syed Jibran – Sahir (Ranjha Ranjha Kardi)

Syed Jibran’s performance in Ranjha Ranjha Kardi kept the viewers guessing for the longest time. The viewers were wondering right till the middle whether Sahir was the good guy or the bad one! Later on in an interview, Syed Jibran revealed that the director had asked him to do just that and it goes without saying that he excelled in it. Sahir had the viewers undivided attention partially because of the way Syed Jibran translated this character on screen.

Sami Khan – DJ (Suno Chanda)

Pakistani drama industry is blessed with many talented child stars but there are few which truly leave their mark. Sami Khan is one such child star, who truly proved to be the star of the show in Suno Chanda. His overflowing confidence went so well with the fun and bubbly character he played in the drama. His portrayal was thoroughly entertaining and never over the top which is why viewers looked forward to DJ’s scenes.

2019

Adnan Siddiqui – Shehwar (Mere Pass Tum Ho)

It won’t be wrong to say that Adnan Siddiqui always impresses whenever he plays a character such as Shehwar’s. This time around however his screen presence was even more remarkable so much so that even at this point in his career he won more appreciation for this performance than he had for any other in the past.

Ahmed Ali Akbar – Shehryar (Ehd-e-Wafa)

Ahmed Ali Akbar was simply adorable as Shehryar. His performance gave him new-found recognition and love from the viewers. He made the viewers relate to his journey even when his character was not getting a lot of screen time. His expressive eyes translated the true emotions of his character superbly.

Ahad Raza Mir – Saad (Ehd-e-Wafa)

Ahad Raza Mir can make you hate his character and love him at the same time! He makes sure that his performances or the characters he plays are never black and white. He was outstanding as Saad right from the beginning. He showed how Saad was like as a friend, son, and as someone who was in love with precision.

Wahaj Ali – Shariq (Ehd-e-Wafa)

All of us who have watched Ehd-e-Wafa will never forget that one scene in which Shariq’s sister hits him. But that wasn’t the only scene that showed Wahaj Ali’s brilliant performance in Ehd-e-Wafa. He performed superbly in the entire drama and made Shariq’s journey worthwhile.

Rehan Sheikh – Hafiz Illyas (Inkaar)

Rehan Sheikh is a remarkable actor who never ceases to impress. He was especially amazing as Hafiz Illyas in Inkaar. He helped the viewers feel the internal struggles of a father and also his courage. This was a beautifully written character and Rehan Sheikh did justice to it.

Sami Khan – Shayan Malik (Inkaar)

Sami Khan’s warm and powerful performance in Inkaar will never be forgotten. Even when he is playing a character which isn’t faultless, he does great but this character was actually written in such a way too that it was easy rooting for Shayan. Sami Khan obviously added those emotional touches to his character which made his performance memorable.

Humayun Saeed – Danish (Mere Pass Tum Ho)

Humayun Saeed had to showcase the pain of a husband who got betrayed by his wife and also the only woman he loved with all his heart. It was well established how much he had loved Mehwish and how his entire life revolved around him. It was heart-breaking for him to find out that his love was not and never enough for her and that was something he found hard to deal with. Although after Mehwish leaves, Danish tries to move on in life but the pain and the emptiness in the eyes of Humayun Saeed was a depiction of how broken Danish was despite all the attempts of trying to take his mind off and come to terms with the truth. Humayun Saeed lived this character and it was evident every step of the way as Danish’s story progressed, making it a memorable performance of his career.

Zahid Ahmed – Sameer (Ishq Zahe Naseeb)

Zahid Ahmed has always been one of those actors who do not shy away from challenging themselves when it comes to their skills and craft. Zahid Ahmed knew he was picking up such a character which was a rarity to have been seen in Pakistani television. It was obvious that the team of Ishq Zahe Naseeb did not know what to expect but the way Zahid Ahmed performed the characters of Sameer, as well as Sameera, was so convincing that people could not stop holding back and got interested in his journey. It was because of his phenomenal performance that the audience showed acceptance towards a character like Sameer because he made the multiple personality disorder come alive on the screens as well as showed what a person goes through. Zahid Ahmed has given the strongest performance of his career in Ishq Zahe Naseeb.

Ahad Raza Mir – Amaanullah (Ye Dil Mera)

Amanullah was suffering from PTSD because as a child he saw his entire family getting killed. It was after his entire world was turned upside down, Amaan used the hatred for Meer Farooq Zaman as a fuel to keep going. As much as Amaanullah strengthened himself, he had those moments where he felt weak and vulnerable because he could not cope up with the burden of losing his family and on top of that witnessing their brutal killings. Ahad Raza Mir is also one of those few young actors who believe in challenges and variety, this is why it was very much expected from him that he would perform it brilliantly but as the drama progressed, Ahad Raza Mir kept on outdoing himself. Despite being a dark and grey character who got married due to his ulterior motives, all the things that Amaan did seemed justified.

Hamza Ali Abbasi – Momin (Alif)

As soon as the casting of Alif was announced, the fans who had read the novel were already excited because they were of the opinion that Hamza Ali Abbasi will be able to do justice to the character of Momin. It rarely happens that the drama ends up exceeding the expectations of the novel readers because of its perfect execution and team Alif did leave any room for error and ended up pleasing the viewers. Those who had read the novel knew about the character but those who were only watching the drama without the hint of what the story was about, even they could understand why Momin’s character was like that. Hamza Ali Abbasi embraced the character and lived it every step of the journey, which helped him in conveying it so beautifully.

Saleem Mairaj – Sultan (Alif)

Saleem Mairaj is a refined and measured actor of the Pakistani drama industry. All the performances that he has given so far have always been flawless and the same goes for his performance in drama serial Alif as Sultan. Saleem Mairaj played the role of a makeup artist and a confidant of Husn e Jahan who was madly in love with her. There were nuances that clearly depicted all the things that Sultan wanted to confess but never had the courage to do so. Sultan was a loyal friend who kept his promise. This character was not only warm but beautifully written. Saleem Mairaj’s flawless portrayal made it one of the best performances of the decade.

Muneeb Butt – Ahmed (Kaisa Hai Naseeban)

Muneeb Butt has worked really hard to prove his mettle as an actor. He has appeared in a lot of dramas, sometimes as a protagonist, and at times as second lead. Muneeb Butt has come a long way and after playing such varied roles, he put his experience to good use when he played the character of Ahmed in Kaisa Hai Naseeban. The character of Ahmed was the kind that the viewers have already seen before but the way Muneeb Butt made it look so real and natural was a showcasing of his talent. Ahmed was a complex character who didn’t mind oppressing the weak. There was some niceness in him but it could not come through because his negativity dominated his personality. Muneeb Butt portrayed this character with a lot of finesse, making it a memorable performance of his career so far.

Usman Mukhtar – Altamash (Anaa)

Anaa was Usman Mukhtar’s first play and the character he played was actually quite complex. His unique acting style went so well with this character. There were so many fans who were in awe of his cold yet appealing portrayal. He made Altamash’s character charming and mysterious at the same time. It was at times likable and at other times you did not want Izza to end up with someone like him! An interesting package overall, Usman Mukhtar made the most of it and that is why this list would be incomplete without him.

2020

Syed Muhammad Ahmed – Mehmood (Ruswai)

Syed Muhammad Ahmed has the ability to make you fall in love with his characters almost effortlessly. In Ruswai he did just that. The viewers felt an instant connection with his character and watching his character die was one of the most heart-wrenching parts of the drama.

Omair Rana – Sarwar (Pyar Ke Sadqay)

Omair Rana made the viewers hate Sarwar’s character so much that many of us continued to watch the drama just to find out how Sarwar was going to be punished in the end. He also added the much-needed charm in his character which made it easier for the viewers to understand why Mansoora fell for his lies for so long. This was definitely one of those performances which will be remembered for a long time.

Bilal Abbas Khan – Abdullah (Pyar Ke Sadqay)

Bilal Abbas Khan was actually reluctant when he was offered this project but the way he acted made it look like he was so sure about what was expected from him. His facial expressions and certain gestures went so well with this confused and timid character. Bilal Abbas Khan proved his versatility by nailing this character and making it memorable.

Mohib Mirza – Hatim (Dushman e Jaan)

Dushman e Jaan was the kind of drama that aired and became the talk of the town. The character of Hatim was flawed and had a lot of layers but the best part about him was that he believed in making amends and becoming a better person. The character of Hatim went through a drastic change in his life, his entire journey was full of ups and downs but all of it was a slow transition. The way Mohib Mirza adapted this character and portrayed it soulfully not only impressed the viewers but allowed them to see him in a completely different light. Mohib Mirza dominated the entire show and continued to wow the fans of Dushman e Jaan. Mohib Mirza is one of the finest actors of the Pakistani drama industry, however, this performance put his name on the map and showed that he is a force to be reckoned with.

Waseem Abbas – Imtiyaz (Kashf)

It won’t be wrong to say that in a grim melodrama like Kashf, the way Waseem Abbas has naturally brought in the element of comic relief is absolutely phenomenal. The way Imtiyaz’s meanness and selfishness have been portrayed by Waseem Abbas makes it a treat to watch him. From someone who had zero aspirations to now being the one who dreams big and continues to push through is an entire journey. Waseem Abbas is a phenomenal and finest actor of Pakistan but his performance in Kashf is on another level.

Danish Taimoor – Sultan Durrani (Deewangi)

When the drama began, no one actually could imagine that Sultan Durrani would turn out to be a tragic hero. He is a layered and dark character who has ruined his life because he failed to see the other side of the picture. Driven by ego and hatred, he ended up committing a lot of mistakes but one thing that remained constant in his life was the love that he had for Nageen, which he realized when it was already too late. Sultan wants to be with Nageen but he also holds her responsible for all of the losses he had to bear in his life, and that puts him in a very confused state of mind. At one moment he is feeling concerned for Nageen but the very next moment he just wants to own her so that he can control her and put her through misery again for the hardships that he has faced. This entire thought process and shifts in his behavioral patterns have been portrayed with so much clarity by Danish Taimoor that it definitely is one of the best performances of his career to date. Although Danish Taimoor takes up more or less similar roles the character of Sultan gave him a lot of margin to perform and outdo himself, which he successfully did.

With this, we complete the lists dedicated to the memorable characters and performances of the decade. We hope you had a great time reading and revisiting these memorable characters. Which of the performances were unforgettable for you? Please add more to the discussion.

Zahra Mirza & Fatima Awan

The representation of men in Pakistani dramas has been the subject of debate lately more than ever. If we observe the male characters in the dramas at the beginning of the decade, they were mostly shown in more or less the same light. It would be safe to say that the flaws of the male characters in Pakistani dramas are more readily accepted and sometimes overlooked as well. Therefore, it does not come as a surprise that even the most memorable male characters from Pakistani dramas in this decade had more than their fair share of mistakes, miscalculations, and misunderstandings. Even with these flaws, these characters played a major role in determining the course of the story and the most memorable ones were those who ultimately tried their best to redeem themselves.

Thankfully, through these years we also got to witness male characters which entertained and their journeys also had meaningful lessons. Then there were those male characters who the ideal heroes, the sort every viewer fell in love with. These heroes became particularly popular among the hopeless romantics out there. Some of them made us laugh, others made us look forward to more, there were some who disappointed but were intriguing nevertheless. The actor chosen to play a specific character can sometimes be a determining factor as well. The actors who played these characters understood them completely and therefore were able to make the viewers relate to their journeys.

Here is a list of all those wonderfully flawed, well-balanced, confused but still likable, negative, evil, hopeless romantics, the best fathers, and all the other male characters which will be etched on our memories forever.

Most Memorable Male Characters of Pakistani Dramas – (2010 to 2020)

2010

Hassan – Fawad Khan (Dastaan)

Hassan’s undying and unconditional love for Bano was the most appealing aspect of his track. His journey like all the other characters in the drama started off on a light-hearted note but as the story progressed, Hassan faced bigger challenges. Even when Bano disappeared during partition and there was simply no hope that she would ever be found, Hassan did not give up on her. Even though Bano was no longer the person she was once she was finally back ‘home’, Hassan refused to give up on her. Right till the end his commitment and love remained the same. You can’t help falling in love with this character no matter how many times you watch Dastaan.

Moiz – Faysal Qureshi (Qaid-e-Tanhai)

Moiz’s journey was also covered in many decades, the viewers watched him regret the decisions he took when he was young and he also tried to make up for them. Moiz married the love of his life but his mother created such a misunderstanding between the couple that they ended up living away from each other for years. His wife ended up being his mother’s maid while he married another woman while he was abroad. Once they met and finally when the truth was revealed, Hassan tried to be the father he should have been all along and he also tried to give his wife the respect she deserved. Although Moiz was a flawed character, he was definitely a memorable one which left a lasting impression.

Junaid – Adeel Hussain (Daam)

Junaid was a straightforward, sweet, and romantic young man who could not get married to the girl he loved because his sister had other plans! He fought hard but lost in the end and ended up getting married to someone he had no feelings for. The viewers could clearly see how happy Junaid could have been, had he been married to Zara therefore he always had their sympathies. The way Junaid declared his love for Zara and the manner in which he tried his best to be with her made his track likable and appealing. He was betrayed by the people he loved the most and was just as much of a victim as Zara.

2011

Ashar – Fawad Khan (Humsafar)

The screen presence of Fawad Khan and the chemistry between him and Mahira Khan made Ashar and Khirad memorable characters. It was unfortunate that Ashar himself fell prey to the conspiracies against his wife but in the end, he got a chance to redeem himself. It won’t be wrong to say that despite not being an ideal character, Ashar still happens to be remembered by Pakistani drama viewers because of Fawad Khan. The romantic aspect of the Ashar Khirad relationship was conveyed beautifully by him.

Abdul Qadir – Fahad Mustafa (Main Abdul Qadir Hoon)

Abdul Qadir was introduced as a neglected young boy who did not feel like he belonged in the house he was born in. His nervousness and confusion in the initial episodes and the way he felt unloved yet pressurized by his mother all the time were some personality traits that made his character engaging right from the beginning. As the story progressed Abdul Qadir went through a massive transformation; his spiritual journey, his challenges, and the relationship he had with everyone associated with him made his character unforgettable.

Hammad – Imran Abbas (Khuda Aur Mohabbat)

Hammad’s character was absolutely beautiful and showed the viewers a unique love a man can have for a woman. The innocence with which Imran Abbas portrayed this character made it even special. Hammad proved his love and continued to do come what may to prove it further. It was also because of his love for Imaan that he found himself and realized what the true meaning of life was. Unfortunately, he could not win the love of his life, but he showed what loving with pure intentions, free of all needs and desires was like. Hammad’s character development and his personality traits definitely made his character memorable.

Karim Fazal Chauhdry KFC – Ali Ejaz (Akbari Asghari)

This happens to be not only a memorable but absolutely cute character from Akbari Asghari. The chieftain of the village who thought of himself to be quite wise and smart often found himself to be wrapped around the fingers of his family members. His character was funny and he had a lot of stories to share with others, which kept the viewers entertained and looking forward to his scenes too.

2012

Zaroon – Fawad Khan (Zindagi Gulzar Hai)

Let’s get one thing straight, Zaroon’s character was in no way likable. In fact, he was the perfect example of the double standards that exist in society regarding men and women. He was a chauvinistic male who had a strong sense of superiority. He met his match when he fell in love with Kashaf and even that did not change him much. Even though Zaroon was flawed to a great extent but it was also one of the most talked-about male characters of the decade! Zaroon’s double standards were left unaddressed right till the end which is why even now the character is discussed on different forums. Fawad Khan’s fans were smitten by his charm but the character itself was unforgettable for all the wrong reasons!

Sami – Syed Muhammad Ahmed (Durr-e-Shehwar)

Even after so many years, Abba from drama serial Durr-e-Shehwar remains the most affectionate, wise, graceful and meaningful fatherly figures in Pakistani dramas. The correspondence Shehwar had with her father through those letters was the most heart-warming and poignant aspect of the drama. In the end, the viewers also found out that the father who was constantly reassuring his daughter was actually quite fearful himself and worried about her all the time. We have never seen a father’s love and affection shown on screen with so much precision. The emotional element of this character made it unforgettable.

2013

Aunn – Osman Khalid Butt (Aunn Zara)

Aunn was full of shortcomings, he was pampered and he didn’t like such treatment because he for once wanted his family to treat him like an adult. Aunn found the true meaning of adulthood when he got married and tried to approach his wife in a unique way. All the experiences that Aunn had were enjoyable to watch and made him familiar with his shortcomings too. This character surely gave Osman Khalid Butt a lot of recognition as an actor and the way it was written by Faiza Iftikhar made it one of the memorable characters of the decade.

Akmal – Danish Taimoor (Rehaai)

Rehaai was a drama serial that had the most negative male lead therefore Akmal, a positive male role-model stood out for all the right reasons. Akmal was a sensitive and caring young man who looked out for the interests of women who were not given respect. He also played a major role in helping these women break free from male exploitation by using all the means available. He redefined the term ‘hero’ since Akmal did not look like a hero but certainly acted like one in his own docile manner throughout. This was the most impactful and likable role played by Danish Taimoor in this decade.

2014

Afzal – Hamza Ali Abbasi (Pyaray Afzal)

This happens to be one such character that gave Hamza Ali Abbasi a chance to prove himself as an actor. Pyaray Afzal was the blockbuster of the year and because of Khalil-ur-Rehman Qamar’s script, the character of Afzal stayed with the viewers and made an impact. Afzal’s journey was all about the love that he was trying to chase but unfortunately, he met a tragic end which left the viewers broken-hearted. The news of Afzal’s death became the talk of the town and it showed how deeply this character affected the viewers.

Khalil – Adnan Malik (Sadqay Tumhare)

Khalil-ur-Rehman Qamar wanted to show the kind of love he had for Shano and he did everything to keep it as close to reality as possible. This is the reason he faced a backlash from his family but despite all that, viewers got to see Khalil’s character and how madly in love he was. Khalil stood against all the odds and continued to push through but sadly, he and Shano weren’t meant to be. This character definitely was memorable.

Bhatti Sahab – Noman Ejaz (Jackson Heights)

This character of a taxi driver showcasing the hardships faced by migrants in the USA was definitely one-of-a-kind. Noman Ejaz played his character to perfection and showed that despite the difficulties of life, he never gave up on the idea of looking at the brighter side. The character of Bhatti Sahab was warm and had such a beautiful personality. It definitely was the best part of this drama and one of the memorable characters of the decade.

Rohaan – Fahad Mirza (Shanakht)

Rohaan’s character was once again written by the writer to break the stereotypes people usually have when they see bearded practicing Muslim men. Rohaan’s character was a breath of fresh air and it was nice to see him having such an easy-going approach towards a life where he did not believe in imposing his beliefs on others. Rohaan’s character brought a change in people’s lives only with the help of his personal actions. It was an impactful and memorable character.

Yousaf – Imran Abbas (Mera Naam Yousaf Hai)

No one pens down romantic dialogues the way Khalil-ur-Rehman Qamar does. Just like many other heroes written by him, Yousaf was also a memorable one. He fell in love with Zulekha the instant he saw her for the first time and was sure that they were meant to be together. He could easily be termed as a nikama aashiq given his credentials but his love for Zulekha made him so special. He was willing to do whatever it took to convince Zulekha of his love even though she rejected him repeatedly. Yousaf was mad love personified!

2015

Agha Jaan – Abid Ali (Diyar-e-Dil)

Agha Jaan’s character was warm and had a fatherly feel to it. Agha Jaan’s story showed that it took him a long time to realize that he too made mistakes and because of his stubbornness, he ended up drifting his sons apart. Agha Jaan then realized he had to do what it takes to fix everything and he didn’t mind admitting that he too made mistakes. His conversations with his grandchildren were profound and beautiful. He was an impactful character played beautifully by Late Sir Abid Ali.

Wali – Osman Khalid Butt (Diyar-e-Dil)

Osman Khalid Butt got to showcase the younger generation of Agha Jaan’s clan. He was in love with his cousin and fancied the idea of being united with his uncle’s family but it took him a long time in sorting things out and he too had to overcome the obstacles. Wali dedicated his entire life to the honor of his family. His love story with Faarah was very special too.

Suhaib – Ali Rehman (Diyar-e-Dil)

Suhaib was the binding force of his family. He was such a person who put his family honor ahead of him, this is why he continued to do what his father wanted and due to his niceness, he ended up winning the heart of his cousin Arjumand. The character of Suhaib was dignified and respectable and yes, memorable too.

2016

Imtiyaz – Ahsan Khan (Udaari)

There’s no denying the fact that this happens to be the character that made an impact and stayed with the viewers for the longest time. The way Ahsan Khan approached this character caught the viewers off guard because they never expected to see him in this avatar, being so convincing as an antagonist. Imtiyaz was an evil pedophile who carefully trapped the mother of his victim and then got away with his evil act. After he came back, it was an intense and nail-biting journey to see him being put behind bars. Imtiyaz ended up being a memorable character for gruesome reasons but he left such an impact that actually forced people to start thinking and start the conversation. This character made the parents cautious and alert and it showed that this is how the TV medium can be used to spread awareness. This definitely happens to be one of the best characters Ahsan Khan has played.

Ejaz/Jazza – Saad (Udaari)

The child artist Saad added so much personality to this character that after the time-lapse, people started missing seeing this young boy who had a voice, opinions and so many ideas in his young brain. The accent of Jazza was another endearing aspect of his personality because it showed him as a raw boy from the village. Jazza was smart, intelligent, and saw life through his own perspective and one of the best characters of Udaari and a memorable one as well.

Haider – Zahid Ahmed (Besharam)

Haider’s character was a breath of fresh air because despite having an image that he usually lived up to, he ended up being a doting and a very understanding husband who believed in giving his wife space and the freedom to live her life the way she wanted. Haider did let Mishi know that he had certain expectations but he never once put restrictions on her. Open communication and understanding was what made Haider an ideal husband and Zahid Ahmed played his character beautifully.

Mohid – Humayun Saeed (Dil Lagi)

Mohid was the kind of hero that made the viewers question repeatedly, do men like him really exist? It is rarely ever that Pakistani viewers get to watch such male characters who have such a charming personality and they are so madly in love. Faiza Iftikhar’s characterizations and dialogues always are novel. This character made the viewers fall in love with Humayun Saeed once again too. It won’t be wrong to say that after playing a plain and shallow character like Irtiza, Mohid proved to be a game-changer for Humayun Saeed.

Gulistan Khan – Noman Ejaz (Sang-e-Marmar)

Gulistan Khan was a rigid and egoistic head of a family who thought that loving someone meant ‘owning’ them. He had a difficult and complex relationship with everyone around him and throughout his life, he never earned the kind of respect which he clearly expected from everyone. He always believed that his aggressive behavior would make things right but he laid the foundations for a never-ending enmity. His character went through different realizations and his ending was definitely unforgettable.

Tora Khan – Paras Masroor (Sang-e-Marmar)

If there was one character that can be chosen as the backbone of the story, it was Tora Khan. Although the story revolved around Gulistan Khan’s family the way Tora Khan continued with his revenge plan in the background without giving away his secret for so long made it quite intense. Tora Khan was subjected to a lot of hatred and racism because of his mother and although he became thick-skinned about it, the thing he could not get past was the fact that his mother succumbed to the injuries that were caused to her by the brutal assault of Gulistan Khan. The way this character thought, planned and manipulated situations, while still maintaining that innocent aura about him made him one of the most memorable and intelligently written characters of the decade. Watching Tora Khan was nothing short of a treat and the way Paras Masroor acted out this layered and complex character with so much clarity was sheer brilliance

2017

Mian Jee – Qavi Khan (Aangan)

Mian Jee’s character was fun and had so much personality. His one-liners were the best and in a literal sense, he was the head of the family who knew when to let it go and also knew exactly when he had to speak up and draw a line. Mian Jee always spoke in favor of his daughters in law and didn’t shy away from holding his sons responsible for their stuff-ups. His character was a breath of fresh air and absolutely beautiful.

Daniyal – Shaz Khan (Yakeen Ka Safar)

Although the character of Daniyal was short-lived, it was such a beautiful and impactful character that made the viewers’ heartache when he passed away. A perfect companion, ideal son, brother, and a husband – who gave up his life fighting for justice and truth. This character made a lot of impact and became memorable for the drama viewers.

Dr. Asfandyar – Ahad Raza Mir (Yakeen Ka Safar)

This character put Ahad Raza Mir on the map and showed everyone what he was capable of as a performer. The character of Asfandyar went through a transition. He suffered from PTSD after his brother died and somehow couldn’t come to terms with the fact that his father didn’t fight till the end to prove Daniyal innocent. As Asfandyar became influential, his pure intentions helped him solve the mystery behind his brother’s murder and gave him a much-needed closure that he was after. Asfandyar continued to learn and he didn’t mind giving people chances that they truly deserved. His love story with Dr. Zubia was an absolutely beautiful part of his journey which he approached with sheer decency and dignity.

Hassan – Sami Khan (Khudgarz)

Hassan was the khudgarz in the drama serial, he was selfish to the core and had no respect for anyone. His father’s personality influenced him more than anything else and he turned into a spoiled brat who did not care about anyone’s feelings. He was ruthless to those people who gave him nothing but love. Towards the end, he started feeling guilty and it was only gradually that he realized how wrong he was. Hassan’s character was written and acted out brilliantly. It was the kind of character which also gives you a reason to self-reflect.

Omar – Yasir Nawaz (Khudgarz)

Omar made a late entry in the drama but his character had so much going for it that this list would be incomplete without him. He was the one who helped Hassan figure things out. If he did not guide Hassan, he would have never realized his mistakes. Omar’s character was never preachy which made him a unique mentor. Right from the beginning, this character had a definite screen presence. Yasir Nawaz’s performance made it even more special.

Faris – Sami Khan (Tau Dil Ka Kya Hua)

Faris’ dialogues and his internal struggles made his character both intriguing and appealing. His philosophy regarding love and the desperate need for closure made him a memorable character without whom this list will be incomplete. A man who could not make himself hate his ex-wife even though outwardly he kept on telling people that he was over her, Faris’ heartbreak and the lies he told himself and others kept the viewers guessing and wanting more.

Ghafoor – Rambo (Khuda Aur Mohabbat)

These kinds of simple yet beautiful characters always add so much warmth to any drama or story. The character of Ghafoor did exactly that in the second season of Khuda Aur Mohabbat. A simple man who only had loyalty and friendship to offer ended up giving everything away to help Hammad emotionally and mentally. He was a true friend who stood by Hammad’s side when he needed it the most. A beautiful and memorable character played beautifully by Rambo.

2018

Bhola – Imran Ashraf (Ranjha Ranjha Kardi)

Bhola has to be the most memorable character in this list that made the viewers laugh and cry at the same time. His dialogues and even his antics literally went viral. Bhola represented those people who are often sidelined in society and even our dramas. This character gave such people a face and a personality. It changed the way people look at people with developmental delays and other such issues. The viewers were completely invested in Bhola’s journey and it gave Imran Ashraf more recognition than ever before.

Asfand – Faysal Qureshi (Baba Jani)

Asfand was another beautifully penned down character who was intelligent, sensitive, caring, and graceful. We rarely get to see such main leads in Pakistani dramas. He was shown as a man who tried his best to balance all his relationships but there were times when he failed to do so. Even though Asfand made a big mistake at the beginning of the story, he learned from it and made sure that he did not make the same mistake again. He loved his family and chose to ignore their flaws but he was not naive.

Raheel – Osama Tahir (Dar Si Jati Hei Sila)

Dar Si Jati Hei Sila was popular because of its diverse characters and impactful storyline. Raheel was a level-headed and progressive young man who was a big support for Sila. He was also a sensitive individual who could sense things that others chose to ignore. He was a breath of fresh air and the kind of male character which the viewers would love to see in Pakistani dramas.

2019

Ammar – Ali Rehman (Khaas)

It wasn’t an easy feat playing the character of a manipulative narcissist to perfection and Ali Rehman achieved that. Ammar’s character was written brilliantly by Sarwat Nazir who tried to show how hard it is to survive around such people who have narcissistic personalities. Ammar was manipulative but he fabricated such an image which made it hard for the people to find flaws in him. Till the end, he continued to be who he was and didn’t believe in changing himself despite failing at marriages twice. Ali Rehman gave this character a perfect treatment and made it a memorable character despite it being a negative character.

Badar – Affan Waheed (Do Bol)

It was interesting to see a grey character who had the capability of being manipulative for his selfish reasons. All he ever wanted was to be with Gaiti and when he got married to her, he realized how important it was to love her selflessly. In the end, it was his selflessness that made Gaiti see the niceness in him and also made her fall in love with him. This way Badar also learned that he was capable of loving selflessly because for him, Gaiti’s happiness mattered the most and he put her ahead of him. Badar also got Gaiti familiar with the idea of true love. Badar’s character required a subtlety that Affan Waheed resorted to while portraying this character.

Meer – Noor Hassan (Meer Abru)

Meer had anger and trust issues, it was because he saw his parents being incompatible and his father being emotionally absent. That made Meer develop those traits and he couldn’t fight his demons when he needed the most. It wasn’t until the death of his cousin Saim and seeing his lady love drifting away from him made him realize how important it was to bring a change in himself. The transition wasn’t forced, it came straight from his heart and he realized that he was capable of goodness as well. It took him a long time to forgive himself but he most certainly learned his less0n. Meer’s character was unconventional and was portrayed perfectly by Noor Hassan.

Abdul Ala – Manzar Sehbai (Alif)

The mention of Alif is always going to be incomplete if the best character of Abdul Ala is not discussed. He had so many profound messages to teach his grandson. Abdul Ala himself was a victim of pride and judgment but when he paid the price by losing his son, he unlearned everything and made himself realize that he was wrong. He spent the rest of his life fending for his mistakes and being a guide to his only grandson Momin. His dialogues were profound and his way of teaching was unique. His personality had a lot of character too and it was portrayed brilliantly by Manzar Sehbai.

Momin – Hamza Ali Abbasi (Alif)

Momin found himself deviating from the right path and lost his touch with spirituality because he saw life through a different lens. Momin started walking on the path of self-discovery and righteousness when he lost his grandfather. Momin’s character was realistic and this is the reason viewers found it relatable because everyone at a certain point in their lives struggles with spirituality and connection with The Creator. Momin’s character had so much to offer and it was an experience within itself to see his emotional and spiritual transitioning. From angry and bitter to forgiving and accommodating, Momin’s journey was beautiful and it makes him a memorable character played phenomenally by Hamza Ali Abbasi.

Sameer – Zahid Ahmed (Ishq Zahe Naseeb)

Zahid Ahmed approached Sameer’s character phenomenally. He added grace and charm and not for once took it overboard because it was a new domain for people to explore where a man suffering from multiple identity disorder was being seen on TV. It was because of Sameer’s character that the viewers showed acceptance towards it as it was approached in such a clear manner. The writer humanized Sameer’s character and showed his struggles by doing justice to them. Sameer found love and despite knowing that he had certain issues, he didn’t hold back at giving himself a chance to fall in love because he wanted to heal himself and he put his trust in his lady love. His journey was unique and so was his character.

Amaanullah – Ahad Raza Mir (Ye Dil Mera)

The way Amaanullah’s character was portrayed by Ahad Raza Mir made everyone realize how grave PTSD at times can be. His performance was beyond brilliant but his character was written with so much clarity where he had an entire plan of action set ahead of him and he wanted to avenge the death of his family. Viewers found themselves rooting for a grey character like Amaan who too made some poor choices but it didn’t undermine the fact that he was a victim and had all the right to find a closure the way he wanted. Ahad Raza Mir showcased Amaanullah’s thought process in such a clear manner that he made it very easy for the viewers to feel his pain.

Shehryar – Ahmed Ali Akbar (Ehd-e-Wafa)

Shehryar’s track started by showing a reckless and fun side of his personality. As the story progressed, the viewers got to watch different layers of his character. He turned out to a really focused, determined, and intelligent young man. Although he came from a lower-class background, he worked hard to change his destiny. At the same time, he was not embarrassed by his background. He assisted his father with his job whenever there was a need to do so. He was the most sensible male lead in drama serial Ehd-e-Wafa, someone who never compromised on his principles and had big goals.

Haji Illyas – Rehan Sheikh (Inkaar)

Haji Illyas was another memorable character who stood by his daughter while she fought the toughest battle of her life. He was disappointed in her and wished things were different but at the same time, he was not going to allow someone who tried to kill her daughter to get away with it. His relationship with his daughter Hajra was always the highlight of every episode. We need to see more such supportive, kind, and strong fathers in our dramas.

Shayan Malik – Sami Khan (Inkaar)

Shayan Malik fell in love with Hajra when they were in college but he never had the confidence to confess his feelings for her. When her best friend tried to assault and then kill Hajra, Shayan was a man on a mission. He went against the wishes of his own family and supported Hajra even though there were times when she did not want him around. Shayan’s undying love for Hajra and the amount of effort he put into supporting her made his character both memorable and admirable.

Saad – Ahad Raza Mir (Ehd-e-Wafa)

Saad wasn’t always likable, his stubborn nature, in the beginning, was even annoying. However, as his character became mature, he turned out to be a really sensible young man with a good heart. The most appealing aspect of Saad’s personality was that pleasing his father was on top of his priority list. Letting his father down was the lowest point in his life and making him proud was the best one. He also proved to be a great cadet and leader who looked out for his batch mates in ways which only a sensitive and caring person would have. He was equally likable and supportive as Dua’s partner.

Danish – Humayun Saeed (Mere Pass Tum Ho)

Through this character, the writer in the aptest manner possible showed how heartbreak affects a person who trusted someone with their eyes closed. Danish’s world revolved around his wife Mehwish, when she betrayed and left him, he did whatever he could to get over her and eventually ended up being a really strong individual. Although Danish had more courage to face the world and take risks after Mehwish left, he never got over her. He remained madly in love with her right till the end but also could not take her back. Danish died of heartbreak and left a lasting impression.

Shehwar – Adnan Siddiqui (Mere Pass Tum Ho)

Shehwar’s character in Mere Pass Tum Ho was a negative one. He fell for Mehwish the second he saw her and he could not care less that she was married. Although he himself was already married, he played an important role in making Mehwish take the most crucial decision of her life which she regretted later on. We saw many negative and conniving men in Pakistani dramas in 2019 but this one will stay fresh in our memories forever because of the havoc he played in everyone’s life.

2020

Wajdan – Junaid Khan (Kashf)

Junaid Khan gets to play a substantial role in drama serial Kashf. The treatment he has given to Wajdan’s character is absolutely flawless. He is not just love-stricken with Kashf but he is constantly struggling to prove his love to her and her family. Wajdan wants to do it not for himself but selflessly for Kashf because he knows she is being exploited and is giving up her basic rights of living a decent life. It is because he feels for her and is far-sighted to see that Kashf will end up lonely because she already is being isolated and is being forced to give up on the happiness that she truly deserves. Wajdan’s selflessness and clarity in his thought process make him a very strong character.

Mehmood – Syed Muhammad Ahmed (Ruswai)

An unfortunate father who failed to save his daughter from kidnappers and was held responsible for the tragedy, Mehmood made us cry buckets of tears. His daughter blamed him for saving his daughter-in-law instead of her and this resulted in creating a rift which made the viewers take sides too! Mehmood went through so many trials and each one of them was translated so well by Syed Muhammad Ahmed, this character will never be forgotten.

Abdullah – Bilal Abbas Khan (Pyaar Ke Sadqay)

Abdullah was the kind of young man we rarely see in Pakistani dramas. A child who never got the love and attention of his parents was verbally and physically abused by his step-father ended up growing into a confused adult. Even with all his ‘shortcomings’, Abdullah had the most interesting personality. His character was well-etched-out and the viewers couldn’t help but feel for him. Abdullah’s sensitive and caring nature was also often shown through different scenes. He was an unconventional male lead who made the viewers fall in love with him.

Weren’t all these characters amazing? Which characters have stayed with you for the longest time and which one of these made an impact in your opinion? Please add more to the discussion and let us know your thoughts.

Fatima Awan & Zahra Mirza

Pakistani drama industry has seen a huge shift in the last 10 years. This entire decade, the Pakistani drama industry went through a revival and brought back the glory our dramas deserved. It was a struggle at first because the television viewers were used to watching Indian content and the few dramas that were being made were not getting a lot of viewership. However, the leading channels came together and decided to bring back the quality content and make the viewers fall in love with Pakistani dramas once again, and fortunately, they succeeded.

In the past decade, Pakistani drama viewers got to see a lot of superhit dramas. All these dramas had a lot of memorable characters because their stories were told in such a convincing manner. With the decade coming to an end, it is befitting to revisit all these beautiful and memorable characters that have stayed with the viewers for the longest time. For any character to be memorable, it doesn’t have to be necessarily a positive character, sometimes the negative ones also linger in the fragments of our memories because of the impact they make.

We are pleased to revisit the dramas from this decade and start a conversation with our readers about all the characters that were memorable in one way or the other. The list covers all the dramas from 2010 to 2020 so far. A few that ended in 2010 have also been included.

Most Memorable Female Characters of Pakistani Dramas – (2010 to 2020)

2010

Bano – Sanam Baloch (Dastaan)

Bano is the kind of character that has stayed with the viewers for the longest time. The journey of a girl coming from an affluent background getting exposed to the struggles she never saw coming was not only heart-wrenching but emotionally consuming too. This is the reason, the lonely ending Bano got haunted the viewers and they couldn’t help feel for her. Sanam Baloch was definitely the only star who could do justice to all the emotions that Bano had to offer.

Maham – Mehwish Hayat (Mere Qatil Mere Dildar)

After Mere Qatil Mere Dildar aired, viewers and the fans of the drama started referring to Mehwish Hayat as Maham. Her character was strong and showed that no matter what came her way, she fought back and in the end, she was the one who took the final decision and didn’t allow anyone to choose the course of life for her. The journey of Maham was all about finding courage and strength amidst the chaos and this is why it was a memorable character.

Saima Chauhdry – Bushra Ansari (Baraat Series)

Bushra Ansari’s character Saima Chaudhry from the popular and innovative Baraat Series won many hearts. This character made people laugh throughout the series. Whenever we talk about comic characters from recent dramas Saima Chaudhry is always on top of the list. A wannabe designer with an interesting personality, Saima Chaudhry was the highlight of the show. Even though Saima’s character was mostly light-hearted, she had a larger-than-life and layered personality. Her confidence and antics both were the main reason why many people tuned into this drama. It was a well-written character with a definite screen presence that can never be forgotten.

Saba Kareem – Samiya Mumtaz (Meri Zaat Zara-e-Benishan)

Saba Kareem’s character’s journey was an inspiring one. Like many other female characters written by Umera Ahmed Saba went through many trials and tribulations but it was her strong faith in God that kept her going. She is falsely accused and she chooses not to compromise on her faith and principles in order to prove her innocence. As a result of this she loses all those people who she had so much faith in but that is when she becomes more resilient than ever and chooses to lead a life which she had never imagined would be her destiny. Through her character, the writer effectively sent across the message that patience and faith ultimately make you a winner.

Maleeha – Aamina Sheikh (Daam)

Unlike some of the other memorable characters on this list, Maleeha was not a positive character but it was a well-etched-out negative character that drove the plot forward more than any other character in Daam. Maleeha’s character transformation and the way some of the choices she made completely ruined her ‘best friend’s’ life were some of those developments in the story which can never be forgotten. Through this character, the writer showed how jealousy and selfishness can ruin relationships. Maleeha’s character was layered and not all black, she basically put her own happiness before everything else and just like every other such character, she was sure that she was justified in doing everything she did. Maleeha’s ending was shown gradually and unlike other such characters, the writer convincingly showed that you just cannot build your happiness on someone else’s pain.

Zeenia – Deepti Gupta (Malaal)

Zeenia’s character’s entire story and the way it evolved through the drama made it the most memorable character of 2010. She was someone who was brought up by relatives and friends because she came from a broken home. Having lived that kind of life, Zeenia always thought that pleasing people was the only way to win their love. Zeenia’s character was kind, soft-hearted, fair but she also had some exceptional strong qualities spoke her mind without hurting anyone. She was shown as a wise woman who gave honest advice to others. Deepta Gupta’s perfect portrayal of Zeenia definitely added to the charm. Umera Ahmed has written a few such female characters which were both progressive, wise, and sensitive.

2011

Saman – Saba Qamar (Maat)

It was probably the first time viewers got to see sister rivalry in a very different manner. It won’t be wrong to say that because of Saman’s character, viewers were invested in Maat and looked forward to it. She was a negative character but she owned everything she did and was unapologetic about it. After creating havoc in her sister’s life, she too didn’t really get it all. Saman’s character surely was one-of-a-kind and stayed with the viewers for a long time.

Khirad – Mahira Khan (Humsafar)

Humsafar’s popularity is unprecedented. It was a blockbuster and this is the reason, the names of Ashar and Khirad are engraved in the minds of the viewers. Their love story was special and this drama paved a way for the biggest stars of the Pakistani showbiz industry. Although the character of Khirad was a victim of a lot of conspiracies, in the end, she found peace because of her child. The appeal of this character and screen-presence of Mahira Khan made Khirad memorable.

Eman – Nadia Jamil (Mere Pass Pass)

Sometimes the most simple characters can be the most appealing as well. Eman was one such character in Mere Pass Pass. A young lady who loved her husband dearly even though both of them were poles apart. Someone who enjoyed simple things in life and did not take anything too seriously until she was forced to give up her unborn child. When Eman decided to take a stand for her unborn child, her marriage fell apart but then that is when her new life also begin. A sweet, kind, and loving soul, Eman will always be remembered for all the right reasons. Her story and journey were engaging and powerful in its own way.

Nazia – Syra Yousuf (Mera Naseeb)

Nazia from Mera Naseeb was one of the best characters played by Syra Yousuf. A young girl who is brought up in a really strict environment who sometimes has to pay the price for her sister’s mistakes as well, Nazia was always selfless, positive, innocent, and wise beyond her years. Nazia showed maturity even when was married against her wishes even though she had someone in her life who loved her whole-heartedly. Nazia’s level-headedness was her biggest strength which made her a balanced and strong female character.

Zubeida – Savera Nadeem (Bari Aapa)

Everyone who has watched Bari Aapa will agree that Zubeida’s character was complex in many ways. She was literally the bari aapa who likes to take control of everything yet it was this controlling nature of hers which in the end proved to be the reason why she was left alone. The writer Samira Fazal through this character showed that relationships require love and nurturing. Zubeida had double standards and thought she could get away with everything. Even though the character itself was not in any way likable but without this character Bari Aapa wouldn’t have been such an amazing drama.

2012

Durr e Shehwar – Sanam Baloch (Durr-e-Shehwar)

Durr e Shehwar’s character was all about patience and the path that she walked through in order to find the mental and emotional peace that she deserved. The journey of Durr e Shehwar had everyone invested in it because of all that she went through. This character was memorable because a lot of viewers found it very easy to relate to her struggles. Sanam Baloch’s realistic performance gave it a perfect treatment and made it stay with the viewers for a long long time.

Safia – Saba Faisal (Durr-e-Shehwar)

Saba Faisal played the role of a typical and strict mother in law which made people resent Safia. It is a fact that this character was a depiction of all those mothers in law who tested the patience of their daughters in law in the early years of marriage. The cold and aloof behavior while being a demanding mother in law made viewers hate Safia and despite being a negative one, she indeed was a memorable character for sure.

Naani – Samina Peerzada (Shehr-e-Zaat)

Naani’s character in drama serial Shehr-e-Zaat truly left a lasting impression. The way she interpreted everything, her strong faith in God, and most importantly her loving and caring nature made her the most memorable character of the decade. Naani’s dialogues were written so beautifully that they were a source of inspiration and guidance for everyone out there. There are few characters that give you as much to reflect upon as this character did.

Bilquees – Bushra Ansari (Bilquees Kaur)

Bilquees from drama serial Bilquees Kaur was most certainly one-of-a-kind. We have rarely seen such layered and entertaining characters on screen. Everything from her back-story to her personality traits was really interesting. Bilquees was a Sikh woman who ran away from her home with a Muslim man and was now settled in the US. Bilquees strong and unapologetic personality coupled with her insecurities and vulnerabilities made her character memorable. This was such a brilliantly penned down character that for the longest time it was because of Bilquees that most viewers tuned in to the drama.

Kashaf – Sanam Saeed (Zindagi Gulzar Hai)

When you think about Kashaf, you are reminded of her hard work and struggles because from a very young age, she stopped living in a bubble and saw life through a different lens. Kashaf’s struggles were a part of her life but grace and elegance were a part of her personality. She never settled for anything less and didn’t let anything sway her from the goal that she had set for herself. It was refreshing to see a character like Kashaf who was so sorted and continued to push through every obstacle that came her way. Her success was purely hers and she was an inspirational and one of the memorable characters of the decade.

2013

Kiran – Sanam Baloch (Kankar)

Sanam Baloch played the character of Kiran to perfection. Kiran’s life turned upside down when she came across an abusive husband who believed in compensating her with all the luxuries for the mental, emotional, and physical trauma that he put her through. Kiran took a stand for herself against all odds and in the end, found closure because she did not allow anyone to treat her disrespectfully. Her journey showed how taking a stand comes with a hefty price but those who are courageous enough set themselves free.

Husna – Aunn Zara (Hina Bayat)

Husna’s character was an embodiment of what mothers are like and what motherhood is all about. Husna understood that her son had some shortcomings but she never once tried to brush them under the carpet, in fact, she became a supportive mother in law who assisted her daughter in law whenever she found herself in trouble. Husna’s character had her own emotional baggage but continued being a binding force of the entire family.

Shamim – Samina Peerzada (Rehaai)

Shamim has to be one of the most diverse and outstanding characters Samina Peerzada has played in her long career. Rehaai dealt with the issue of child marriage and Shamim was a mother who was also married to a man much older than her at a really young age. When her son chooses to do the same, she does whatever she can to stop him but her efforts prove to be fruitless. Although she is unable to stop this marriage from taking place, she plays a pivotal role in eventually taking a stand for herself and her daughters-in-law. Shamim’s character was multidimensional and her journey was inspiring.

Bibi – Sanam Saeed (Talkhiyaan)

Bibi’s character was the most unconventional female character we have seen in Pakistani dramas. A woman who chose to marry out of her faith and nationality ends up coming back to live with her toxic parents once her marriage falls apart along with her two kids. She has to put up with a lot and along the way she questions the double standards prevalent in her house. She also unravels hidden secrets and along the way understands the bitterness behind some of the people in her house. Bibi’s unconventional journey was wholesome and extremely engaging.

Appu Ji – Hina Bayat (Talhiyaan)

Appu Ji was another character who was anything but run-of-the-mill! A spinster who derives pleasure out of making Bibi and her children’s life hell, she also had an interesting story to tell! Her back-story revealed the reasons behind her bitter behavior and even though Appu Ji was anything but dignified, it was an absolute pleasure watching this unusual, original, and gripping female character on screen.

2014

Farah – Ayeza Khan – (Pyaray Afzal)

Ayeza Khan herself is of the opinion that Farah’s character changed everything for her. It was probably for the first time she was getting to play such a substantial character that goes through a lot of emotional shifts and transitions to understand what true love actually means. The character of Farah paved the way for Ayeza Khan and opened new domains for her.

Shano – Mahira Khan (Sadqay Tumhare)

The way Khalil ur Rehman Qamar wrote this character made all the viewers fall in love with Shano. Her existence, her beauty, her character, her nature; it was obvious that in his imagination, she was perfect and this is exactly how Mahira Khan did justice to Shano. Through her subtlety, she made the viewers feel for her and understand her emotions. She was wise and mature for her age. She never wished ill for anyone and never thought of doing anything that would cause distress to her family, this is why her tragic end left the viewers broken-hearted because they truly wanted to see her happy with the love of her life.

Madiha – Mansha Pasha (Mera Naam Yousaf Hai)

Madiha’s character was the most lovable character in the play. At the beginning of the drama, this character was so appealing that it stood out more than Zulekha’s character, who was the main lead. In the end, too Madiha’s sacrifice and the way she proved that true love indeed is selfless was an unforgettable twist in the story. This was also one of those few characters in our dramas that go through the most convincing and impactful transition. Madiha was the one who kept the viewers guessing until the end and had the most impressive ending to its credit.

Rasheeda – Samiya Mumtaz (Sadqay Tumhare)

Rasheeda’s character and background were pivotal to the story since she was the one who determined the fate of Shano and Khalil’s unforgettable love story. Even though this character was a negative one but there were also times why you understood where this bitterness came from. It won’t be wrong to say that Rasheeda kept most of the viewers glued to their television screens for weeks. She left the viewers haring her, wanting to see more of the malice, hurt, and vengeance that she felt throughout.

Aafiya Begum – Hina Bayat (Mera Naam Yousaf Hai)

Aafiya begum was an intelligent and strong woman who was married to a man who always put her down and even went ahead and got married to someone else. In the end, Aafiya begum chose not to forgive her husband and in front of a court declared that she did not want to lose any more of her precious time on this man who clearly did not divorce her. Everyone out there who thinks that Khalil-ur-Rehman Qamar shows women as the weaker gender should definitely watch this drama and how Aafiya begum gives her husband a reality check in the end. Aafiya chose to be free of a marriage that did more harm than good.

Dania – Saba Qamar (Bunty I Love You)

Dania was another complex but highly appealing character. She got married to a wealthy man old enough to be her husband after he ‘bought off’ the person she was madly in love with. It was after the demise of her husband that Dania desperately looked for love and attention in all the wrong places. Without realizing it, she also became the kind of controlling and selfish person her husband was. Her love for Bunty, the intensity, and the selfishness attached to it made this character unforgettable.

Farida – Saba Qamar (Digest Writer)

The character of Farida played beautifully by Saba Qamar perfectly depicted what it means to dream big and fulfill all those dreams with sheer commitment and hard work. Farida’s journey was full of personal struggles and hardships because although she did well professionally, in her personal life, she was unable to find true love for that she longed for. Although Farida always put everyone ahead of her, what proved her as a selfless person was when in the end, despite having the option of being with the one she loved, she chose to stay with her husband for the sake of her children and their happiness. This made her character realistic, impactful, and memorable.

Shakeela – Aiman Khan (Digest Writer)

The character of Farida’s younger sister who always encouraged and uplifted the morale of her eldest sister was absolutely sweet. She showcased the beauty of the sibling relationship. Despite being young, Shakeela was opinionated and she always took a stand for her sister, showed her direction, and helped her with perspective-altering.

Qurat ul Ain – Maya Ali (Shanakht)

Qurat ul Ain’s character was all about giving and never expecting anything in return. Through this character, it was showcased how one person can bring a change in the life of those around them, and then the circle keeps on getting bigger. It was a rarity where Qurat ul Ain’s character showed that her Hijab was her strength and did not get in her way of pursuing a full-fledged career and living life to the fullest. Her character was inspiring and memorable.

2015

Goshi – Hira Mani (Preet Na Kariyo Koi)

It was a challenging character that was portrayed perfectly by Hira Mani. Goshi wanted to live life on her own terms, due to which she made her own decisions which upset her family as well as those who loved her. Goshi’s journey was full of struggles because she also found herself landing in hot waters but she owned everything and continued to push through. In the end, she finally found the peace that she was after. It was definitely a unique character that isn’t often seen in Pakistani dramas.

Fareesa – Sarah Khan (Alvida)

Fareesa was the antagonist in drama serial Alvida. It rarely ever happens that a negative character actually helps keep your interest alive in the drama and Fareesa did just that. In some ways, Fareesa’s character was quite typical and didn’t have novelty to offer yet it was a memorable one since she made her presence felt in the drama. Fareesa also probably did more to impact the lives of the people around them than any other character.

Malika Aaliya – Maria Wasti (Malika-e-Aaliya)

This had to be one of the most negative characters in Pakistani dramas yet Malika Aaliya was the sole attraction of a drama which was not extraordinary otherwise. As the name suggests, Malika thought of herself as a queen and ran the show throughout. It was actually entertaining watching how she had everyone wrapped around her finger. The character was amusing and comic at times as well. Malika’s antics were entertaining and since she was the only character in the drama which had a definite appeal, she deserves to be on this list.

2016

Zebo – Areesha Ahsan (Udaari)

The child artist playing the character of Zebo made all the viewers fall in love with her. She was a sweet young girl but the most endearing part of her personality was the affection and sensitivity she had towards her mother. Zebo despite being so young knew how hard her mother’s life as a single parent was and she wanted to achieve so much for the sake of her mother.

Zulekha – Saba Hameed (Dil Lagi)

Saba Hameed’s character in Dil Lagi was one-of-a-kind. She was not a typical mother in law but the authority that she was used to practicing often got in the way of how Anmol and Mohid’s marital life shaped up. The trait that set her character as a mother in law apart was the fair and just treatment that she believed in. It was a substantial character of a strong mother who had a lot of influence but never believed in misusing it.

Meeran – Urwa Hocane (Udaari)

We rarely get to see strong, level-headed, and committed female characters in our dramas. Meeran was one such character whose journey kept the viewers glued to their television screens. Meeran went through many ups and downs but all through that, she made sure she stayed strong. She also supported others around her and there wasn’t an ounce of jealousy in her. Her character had so many positives and it will always be remembered as one of the most progressive female characters.

Anmol – Mehwish Hayat (Dil Lagi)

Anmol’s character was intense, powerful, unapologetic, and difficult to grasp at times! Anmol was introduced as a headstrong young lady who was fierce and as her journey progressed some of her strengths turned into her weaknesses. This was the perfectly fleshed-out character which gave the viewers so much to talk about. Some of the viewers had a difficult time accepting this fiery heroine, others fell in love with her instantly.

Sitara – Saba Qamar (Mein Sitara)

Sitara was the star of the show right from the time she made her first appearance in the drama. Sitara’s journey spanned over a few decades. She went from being a simple, innocent, bubbly girl to a woman who no longer cared about right or wrong. Sitara’s journey was full of emotions, ups, and downs. This character was so impactful that it remained fresh in the viewers’ memory long after the drama ended.

Jharna – Aisha Gul (Mein Sitara)

Jharna’s character in Mein Sitara went through so many different phases and each one of these phases was equally impactful. Jharna was a strong woman who believed in supporting other women but her life took a turn for the worse when her husband fell in love with the girl they had brought up together, someone Jharna loved unconditionally. This character was inspired by a real-life heroine therefore it was even more impactful. The viewers couldn’t help feeling for Jharna every step of the way.

Mishi – Saba Qamar (Besharam)

Sarwat Nazeer wrote this character in order to break stereotypes about working women belonging to the fashion industry. Through her character, she showed that Mishi was ready to put everything on hold in order to make her marriage work. Mishi was strong, financially independent but more than that, she was absolutely capable of running a family and be a binding force for it. Mishi believed in honesty and clarity, which helped her a lot and made her a memorable character.

Aneesa Begum – Saba Faisal (Zara Yaad Kar)

The aspect that made Aneesa Begum’s character memorable was her outlook on life. The dialogues that Khalil ur Rehman Qamar chose for this character were absolutely powerful. Aneesa Begum was faced with a challenge in her life where as a single parent, she had to do the upbringing of her children on her own. Her eldest daughter continued to make one mistake after another but Aneesa Begum did not let her motherly emotions cloud her judgment. She never shied away from calling spade a spade and held her daughter responsible for her poor choices.

2017

Zubia – Sajal Aly (Yakeen Ka Safar)

Sajal Aly made the viewers fall in love with Zubia’s character. Zubia came from a dysfunctional background and looked for love elsewhere but because of her poor judgment, she learned a lesson in life. After that, Zubia walked on the eggshells until she ended up proving herself. The overall journey of Zubia was beautiful and this character had a complete personality, making it memorable.

Anji – Sanam Chaudhry (Ghar Titli Ka Par)

Sanam Chauhdry gave one of the best performances of her career in Ghar Titli Ka Par as Anji. She made the viewers resent this character while still making it thoroughly enjoyable to watch Anji’s antics. Anji was mean, she was selfish but she was unapologetic about it. She continued to cross the limits and in the end paid the price but to watch her journey was worthwhile. She was a negative character but a unique one at that.

Nadia – Kiran Haq (Dar Si Jati Hai Sila)

Kiran Haq played the character of Nadia to perfection. She had the kind of aura that one could easily see her as a gullible young girl but she was far wiser than the elders of the family combined. She was observant and that’s what made her see-through things quickly. Nadia ended up being the voice of reason in this family and being an outsider, she knew she didn’t have much to lose and she could say what others were hesitant to. Her character was memorable for sure.

Zaini – Aamna Malick (Dar Si Jati Hai Sila)

Zaini could easily pass as a considerate sister of Sila who found it hard to take a stand for herself. It was refreshing to see a character like Zaini who never made Sila feel less human by pointing out her shortcomings, in fact, she believed in building her confidence and helped her in overcoming her fears. Zaini’s character was opinionated and strong, she was a breath of fresh air.

Khaani – Sana Javed (Khaani)

Khaani has to be the strongest yet the most vulnerable character played by Sana Javed. Khaani’s story was inspired by real-life incidents that was perhaps the reason why this character left a lasting impression. Khaani’s life turns around for the worse when her brother is shot dead by a wealthy and influential man. Things get even worse when this man falls in love with Khaani. She fought a long and hard battle to get justice for her brother and through it, all the viewers got to witness so many different shades of her personality.

Aapa – Sakina Samo (Dar Si Jati Hai Sila)

Aapa was the head of Noor Manzil and she made some really bad choices along the way. A know-it-all dictator who wanted things her way, Aapa made the worst decision of her life when she decided to take Joi, an orphan as her own, and loved him more than anyone else in her life. Joi gave her life meaning, the feeling of motherhood since she did not have any children of her own. In the end, when she finds out the ugly truth about Joi, her character gets the much-needed reality check and also entailed an important message.

Noor Jahan – Aisha Khan (Noor e Zindagi)

It won’t be wrong to say that there were times when Noor Jahan was too perfect and sensible but once in a while, it is good to watch such characters in dramas! Noor Jahan was so wise that she could easily find a way out of any difficult situation at all and had the capability of turning things around. Noor can easily pass as one of the most level-headed, sweet, sensible, and likable characters of the decade.

Bibi Sahiba – Saman Ansari (Dumpukht Aatish-e-Ishq)

Bibi Sahiba’s character had so much going for it. She had the most graceful personality and she always came across as an enlightened woman who was also spiritually enlightened. A really intelligent woman who goes out of her way to save someone she is not even remotely related with. Bibi Sahiba was a strong woman with a heart of gold. It was a beautiful character which was the highlight of the drama Dumpukht.

2018

Ulfat – Neelam Munir (Dil Mom Ka Diya)

Ulfat’s character opened new domains for Neelam Munir and put her name on the map where people started seeing her as a mature actor. The character of Ulfat was toxic and continued to make one mistake after another but in the end, her tears explained her regrets. She ended up with a terminally ill husband but didn’t leave him, seeing it as her redemption. Till the time the drama lasted, Ulfat was the talk of the town and despite being a negative character, it succeeded in staying with the viewers.

Noori – Iqra Aziz (Ranjha Ranjha Kardi)

Noori had to be one of the most intriguing, appealing, and layered female characters we saw in Pakistani dramas in this decade. She had some really likable positive traits and like many other heroines of Faiza Iftikhar, she had a fierce personality. Noori’s entire journey covered so many different aspects of her life. From trusting the wrong people to getting married to someone she was not compatible with, Noori faced all these challenges head-on and proved to be an exceptional character. The best thing about this character was that it had more than its fair share of flaws but even then it was quite appealing.

Tabbasum – Nadia Khan (Zun Mureed)

Tabbasum’s character was written so well that through this character the writer Amna Mufti showed all those problems that women face in households and within the society. Right from the first episode, Tabbasum was shown as someone who was burdened with more responsibility than she could bear yet she never got a lot of acknowledgment for it. The best aspect of this character was the way the writer defined boundaries in marriage through it. A wonderfully penned down character, Tabbasum offered so much. This character spoke to the audience like no other.

Shahana – Nadia Afghan (Suno Chanda)

Shahana was witty, comic, fierce, and entertaining all rolled into one! She was the most favorite character from Suno Chanda for all the right reasons. Apart from being entertaining, Shahana was also a great mother-in-law who always supported her bahu unconditionally. Shahana had such a screen presence that many people watched this show and enjoyed it because of her.

Bi Jaan – Samina Ahmed (Suno Chanda)

How often do we see positive women running the show in dramas like the male heads of families do? Well, hardly ever! Bi Jaan was one such character in Suno Chanda who was a wise but at the same time fun head of the family. She was strong and young at heart. She was also great at solving different problems that arose a little too often among family members.

Shehnaz – Saniya Saeed (Meri Guriya)

Shehnaz was an unfortunate mother whose daughter was raped and murdered. She was pressurized to stay quiet but she did everything she could to get her daughter justice and in the end, she succeeded. She was one of the best mothers we saw in Pakistani dramas in this decade. Her scenes with her daughters were heart-warming right from day one.

Safina – Sonya Hussyn (Meri Guriya)

Safina’s character was perhaps the best one Sonya Hussyn opted to play in this decade. Safina was a professional badminton player but she was forced to get married. When she got married, she had no idea that her husband would turn out to be a sick-minded rapist and murderer. Eventually, this wise and strong lady played a crucial role in getting her husband caught. Her support for Shehnaz and all the victims’ parents were the best part of the drama. Safina was outspoken, confident, and sensitive, a complete package, the perfect character you could easily fall in love with.

Nigar – Ushna Shah (Balaa)

Another negative character of the year that inflicted so much misery on her in-laws. Ushna Shah played a negative character to perfection and made Nigar’s character stand out more. It was unfortunate that the writer opted for an easier ending for this character by driving her crazy, whereas it would’ve been perfect if they had shown her husband seeking professional help to sort her issues. Nigar’s character was discussed everywhere and despite being an evil character, ended up being engraved in the minds of the viewers.

2019

Mehwish – Ayeza Khan (Mere Pass Tum Ho)

Previously, writers have shown women being infidels but the way Khalil ur Rehman Qamar conceived and shaped this character was different and never seen before. Mehwish jumped into a deep pit with her eyes open and the writer showed, that women like Mehwish existed who find it hard to settle with what life has given them. Mehwish was unapologetic and this is the reason, viewers did not feel for her because she never once realized the gravity of the mistakes done by her. Mehwish’s character was not ideal but the journey of it was definitely memorable.

Gaiti – Hira Mani (Do Bol)

It was very easy for the character of Gaiti to come across as snobbish or rude but Hira Mani played this character beautifully which showcased all of Gaiti’s shortcomings as well as her strengths. Gaiti came from a background where she was not allowed to make her choices, resulting in her sudden marriage to Badar but it was after she moved out of that house, she realized how free she was. It was her journey of learning and re-discovering the value of what her husband meant to her. Gaiti’s character as well as her journey was memorable.

Abru – Sanam Chauhdry (Meer Abru)

Abru was an authoritative and over-protective eldest sister who took her responsibilities very seriously. Abru was the binding force of the family who was the strength and support of her father as well as a safety blanket for her sisters. Life wasn’t easy for her but she didn’t compromise on her dignity and self-respect. Abru pushed through and made the viewers fall in love with her character. Sanam Chauhdry’s performance was brilliant.

Momina – Sajal Aly (Alif)

Momina’s journey was not easy and all that she ever did or achieve was only for her brother and her parents. In the middle of this, Momina forgot to live for herself and probably also forgot who she was but then, rediscovering her father’s past and relating her journey to that of Husn e Jahan’s helped her a great deal in shaping her present and future. Momina also had a chance at love but she believed in being free. Her journey was beautiful and her character was even better backed by the measured performance of Sajal Aly

Husn e Jahan – Kubra Khan (Alif)

The character of Husn e Jahan showed that when you have that urge in you to achieve the closeness to your Creator, you stick to the opportunity you get. After experiencing the world of glitz and glam, Husn e Jahan found peace in seclusion. The best aspect of her character was the way she approached motherhood. Her connection and relation with her son were absolutely beautiful.

Ramsha – Hajra Yamin (Ehd e Wafa)

Drama serial Ehd-e-Wafa had so many progressive and inspiring female characters. Ramsha was one such young lady who was shown as an independent working woman. Ramsha was wise, practical, and sensitive. She was also someone who did not need a man in her life to support her. On the contrary, her relationship with Shariq was based on mutual trust and support. They were equal partners in everything whether it was their work or the emotional investment they put in their relationship. This was truly a refreshing character that broke so many stereotypes.

Dua – Alizeh Shah (Ehd e Wafa)

Dua did not appeal to the viewers at first but as the story progresses and this character evolved, we got to see a caring daughter, a dedicated student, and a motivated working woman in Dua. This was another character that went against the stereotypes by putting forward so many inspiring messages for all the young ladies out there. Dua was completely focused on every phase of her life. She also had the courage to speak up when it was needed the most.

Faryal – Vaneeza Ahmed (Ehd e Wafa)

Faryal will always be remembered as a role model for all the mothers out there. Usually, working women are shown as failures as mothers and homemakers in our dramas. That was certainly not the case here. Faryal used her wisdom both in her work and also at home. She was a friend to Saad and without her advice and support, he wouldn’t have been able to make all the right choices.

Hajra – Yumna Zaidi (Inkaar)

Hajra’s character was yet another flawed yet inspiring characters in Pakistani dramas this decade. Hajra made some mistakes and later on she had to pay a heavy price for them. Her journey overall played an important role in showing the importance of consent in relationships. Hajra’s emotional and sensitive side was actually more appealing than her strong nature. This was such a beautifully written character that had the most inspiring journey.

2020

Kashf – Hira Mani (Kashf)

Kashf’s story is all about how a selfless person allows her family to exploit her to their heart’s content but the patience with which she deals with them shows how big-hearted she is because she is not oblivious to their selfishness. Kashf has dedicated her entire life to support her family and has curbed her own feelings, desires, emotions, and wants aside. Hira Mani has given a phenomenal performance and Kashf’s character is unique with so much niceness in her heart, that reflects in her thought process and actions towards others.

Mahjabeen – Yumna Zaidi (Pyar Ke Sadqay)

Mahjabeen can easily be termed as one of the most unusual yet the most adorable characters in Pakistani dramas. Mahjabeen was a young girl who was completely aware of her limitations and failures but that never stopped her from trying to stand out in some way or the other. Her innocence was the most charming aspect of her character. She was the kind of character that made the viewers laugh and cry at the same time. Mahjabeen will definitely be remembered for a really long time!

Washma – Srha Asghar (Pyar Ke Sadqay)

Washma from Pyar Ke Sadqay was just as likable as Mahjabeen but for completely different reasons. She was a wise and resilient young woman who made all the right choices even when the odds were completely against her. Even though she never had the support of her mother, Washma learned to take a stand for herself, and later on, she was Mahjabeen’s biggest support. Washma’s powerful personality was the highlight of every episode she was a part of. The viewers looked forward to her scenes and she never disappointed them.

This concludes the list of memorable female characters of the decade. Which characters have stayed with you for the longest time? Please add more to the discussion.

Zahra Mirza & Fatima Awan