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Battle Of The Bad Boys: Green TV’s Shikaar vs HUM TV’s Zulm

By
Warshma Chughtai
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Some actors love to experiment with their roles, pushing the boundaries of their craft. And then there’s Faysal Qureshi, who seems to have a love affair with the antagonist characters. But, oh boy, does he play them brilliantly.

His upcoming projects, HUM TV’s Zulm and Green Entertainment‘s Shikaar, have the actor at the forefront, in which he unleashes his villainous charm upon us. However, the question is which one would win our hearts?

The big return to HUM TV

In Zulm, Faysal Qureshi is making a triumphant return to HUM TV after eight long years. The show boasts a cast including Shehzad Sheikh, Sahar Hashmi, Raeed Alam, and Saba Faisal, among others. With the drama penned by Rehana Aftab, directed by Ilyas Kashmir, and produced by the renowned Momina Duraid, it’s no wonder we’re all eager for its premiere.

The team has released two teasers and an OST within just 10 days, leaving us hanging on the edge of our seats, however, the release date may still be a mystery.

Enter Shikaar

But that’s not all; Faysal Qureshi isn’t putting all his villainous eggs in one basket. He’s also leading Green Entertainment‘s Shikaar, where he assumes the titular role of a thug. Now, what’s intriguing here is the timing of it all.

Green Entertainment seems to have cracked the code of creating hype in record time. They’ve unleashed not just one, but two teasers, a trailer, and their OST – all in the same week. It’s a rather bold move, especially since the show is scheduled to air on Saturday, 4th November, at 7:00 PM. Why’s that remarkable? Well, this time slot is usually not reserved for the heavyweights on other channels, but Green Entertainment seems to be playing a different game.

The battle of the bad boys

Both Zulm and Shikaar showcase Faysal Qureshi in the role of a villain with a lust for power and a penchant for imposing his love on the leading ladies. Though Zulm’s teaser came out first but Shikaar has created a hype within a week and is set to release sooner. We wonder if people would appreciate him in a similar role when Zulm would come out.

So, whether it’s the sly and strategic teasers of Shikaar or the anticipatory aura of Zulm, Faysal’s dual act as the intimidating antagonist is bound to have us all hooked, though let’s see which one is able to charm the viewers more. 

5 Iqra Aziz Looks From Mannat Murad We Love

By
Kehkashan Bukhari
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After her mega-hit project, Khuda Aur Muhabbat season 3 — which was aired on GEO TV two years back — Iqra Aziz has returned to the channel with Mannat Murad. While fans saw her in Aik Thi Laila last year, directed by Yasir Hussain for Express Entertainment, this time around, it’s not just her acting that’s garnering praise – her style is stealing the spotlight. 

The teaser and trailer debuted to the delight of viewers, since 7th Sky Entertainment has never let down in terms of production quality, one can’t help but appreciate Mannat’s wardrobe as the drama is in full flow and capturing the audience with its unique tale. 

Mannat’s wardrobe is a mix of casual, formal, sarees, and wedding wear; you’ll see her in simple slacks and shirts and even a night suit on a regular basis, but when it comes to weddings or workplace scenes, boy oh boy, our girl will take you to the moon. We have curated a list of five jaw-dropping looks of Iqra from the show.

Stuns the screen in a laal suit


The screen is filled with rainbows overall, but when you see Mannat in “Laal Suit” — an OST sung by Sarmad Qadeer — you will be starstruck for sure. Iqra wears the eye-catching red kalidar peshwas by Faiza Saqlain; the deep round neckline, covered with thick embroidered patches on the back, sleeves, and bottom makes it appear fancy. However Aziz, in her signature make-up look keeps it minimal with an appealing hairstyle.

Mannat’s timeless lehnga

The main OST of the drama “Dil Haara” — voiced by Asim Azhar — in which you see Mannat in a proper bridal look with a golden Lehnga designed by Faiza Saqlain which is fully covered with heavy hand embroidery, paired with a gorgeous dupatta with the combination of green and red colour, gives us perfect 90’s bridal vibes. Furthermore, based on YouTube comments, many are comparing Mannat’s bridal gown to Saboor Aly’s bridal lehnga, as both were designed by the same designer.

The office attire

After slaying in two major events of the drama, the wedding scene and the OST, our heroine already impressed us with her styling games in the very first episode, when she goes out for an interview in the same office where Murad — played by Talha Chahour — sees her for the first time and falls for her at the first sight. Mannat wearing a royal blue top paired with white pants looks mesmerising in this outfit, the basic makeup and jewellery uplift her demeanor and portray her as a modern woman – Iqra looks absolutely stunning here!!

The elegant rishta outfit 

It’s a big day for our Mannat so the outfit has to be elegant for this very occasion, as Murad’s family visits Mannat and meets her family to send the proposal of their only son for her only daughter, and man! She flaunts her white and black floral article designed by Ansab Jahangir, paired with the gorgeous black floral dupatta to complete the look.

Effortless minimalistic attire

Don’t forget to praise Aziz for her everyday minimal outfits and shine as a strong, independent woman. Whether it’s a Red solid kurta-trouser look by ‘Manto’ or a basic silk co-ord set by ‘Vanya’, she radiates her beauty through her attire. 

It’s good to see Iqra in a different style this time —kudos to the stylists and the team — as we are tired of seeing our ‘average vulnerable heroines’. We are hoping to see more of our boss ladies on the screen, till then shine on Mannat.

Gunjal’s Trailer Promises a Riveting Tale of Truth and Justice

By
Zainab Mossadiq
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Gunjal Trailer

A spine-chilling narrative, Gunjal is an attempt to shed light on the oppression and brutality of society through the lens of the deceased journalist Shahbaz Bhatti.

Following the release of the trailer for the upcoming film Gunjal, an excited fanbase of both Ahmed Ali Akbar and Pakistani cinema fanatics resurrected, sensing something exceptional brewing around the block.

On the surface, Gunjal’s trailer promises a hard-hitting ride, a serious watch that is bound to make you uncomfortable at places, making you question the norms of society, while simultaneously making you wonder how many buried stories of oppression need a voice to be told.

Based on true events, Gunjal is an attempt towards narrating the life of journalist Shahbaz Bhatti as he investigates the murder of child activist Irfan Masih in 1990s Pakistan. Directed by Shoaib Sultan and produced by Nighat Akbar Shah, Gunjal explores themes of human rights, justice, and hope.

Trailer Release:

The fast-paced trailer of Gunjal opens with Ahmed Ali Akbar, who is essaying the character of Shahbaz, in a new avatar. In search of a job, Shahbaz goes on a quest to uncover the true story behind the murder of Irfan Masih amidst the several conspiracies he is surrounded with.

Without giving much away, the changing frames of the trailer keep you hooked, as we see a glimpse of different characters that are part of the narrative.

“I feel suffocated, burning inside. Whom should I listen to. Who is telling the truth.”

From the looks of the trailer, our guesses are that the story will build on flashbacks i.e., Shahbaz investigating the murder of Irfan Masih and the events that lead to it. The trailer successfully hooked the audience. At one point it keeps you engrossed with Shahbaz and his attempt to uncover a murder case. The scene with fire seemed a metaphorical representation of Shahbaz’s inner turmoil and the suffering he is inflicted with in search of truth.

On the other hand, the scene of Irfan Masih brings a sense of hope and optimism, seeing young blood fight for the rights of education.

A production of Nighat Shah under Adur Productions, Gunjal is directed by Shoaib Sultan and is written by Nirmal Bano and Ali Kazmi.

The Spellbinding Cast:

The protagonist of the film needs no introduction. Ahmed Ali Akbar, with his choice of projects over the years, has carved his own niche, who has confidence in the project that he decides to take on. His new avatar looks nothing but promising.

We also see Amna Ilyas in the trailer, who seems to have molded entirely in the character she is playing. Her body language and her styling adds up to her performance and we are excited to see what she has in store for us.

Ahmed Ali Butt is also playing a rather shady character, from the looks of it. Which he seems to have molded himself into completely.

Resham is also part of the film. Her character asks Shahbaz to uncover the truth in one scene and in the other we see her receiving a briefcase, making her character look suspicious, which further builds the intrigue.

The rest of the cast includes Syed Muhammad Ali, Sarmed Aftab Jadraan, Razia Malik, Sardar Nabeel, Ali Aftab Saeed, Arham Khan, Ebtisam Mustafa, Habiba Sufyan, Ahsen Murad, Munir Khan, and Usman Zia.

The film will be released on 8th December 2023. What’s your take on the teaser?

Mikaal Zulfiqar Wins Praise As Sherry From Jaisay Apki Marzi

By
Ifrah Butt
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Mikaal Zulfiqar

It seems like playing shades of grey is the newest trend on television. We say this because, grey characters, who were once good, are resonating more with viewers than actual villains or the good guys on television. Currently we’re talking about Mikaal Zulfiqar and his character Sherry in Jaisay Apki Marzi, who has become an instant favorite of many, owing purely to the actor’s portrayal of the role and not because of the toxicity of the character he portrays.

Mikaal Zulfiqar has effortlessly slid into the role of Sherry, the sheer childish, dominating, chauvinistic, insecure, egoistic and abusive husband whose only motto in life has become to reduce his wife to tears. Sherry tortures Alizeh mentally and emotionally, often teaming up with his sister to emphasize himself as being the alpha male in the relationship.

Good Guy Mikaal Zulfiqar Plays Dirty

For viewers it has become exciting to watch the good guy Mikaal Zulfiqar play dirty on screen and reduce his wife Alizeh (Dur-e-Fishan) to tears on every occasion. We were shown Sherry as a responsible and open minded adult who appreciated female coworkers in his office but now has no space for appreciation for his wife. Mikaal as Sherry, wowed the audience with his effortless transition from a romantic to a wife harasser.

Mikaal Zulfiqar has always been a convincing actor and with the audiences hating Sherry with a passion, we can only say that he has been successful in getting the thought process behind the character right across. Zulfiqar’s expressions, his dialogue delivery and his mannerism is right on spot as a narcissistic husband, intent on gaslighting his wife and destroy her as a person.

Reception To Jaisay Apki Marzi

The audience has been appreciating the execution of Jaisay Apki Marzi’s storyline. The most noticeable thing about the drama isn’t the fact that it is touching upon such a sensitive topic but the fact that it has been ideally treated. Each and every instance in the drama is spot on. Especially the way Sherry reacted on Alizeh’s sister’s proposal, it was exactly how narcissistic men are known to behave. On top of this, the way Sherry left Alizeh behind while walking into a restaurant after their marriage has also resonated with audiences. The particular scene garnered a lot of appreciation, where a lot of people said how it reminded them of certain instances in their life.

What do you think about the storyline of Jaisay Apki Marzi?

Khushhal and Dananeer: Are These Young Faces Perfect For Muhabbat Gumshuda Meri?

By
Zainab Mossadiq
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MGM cast

In a recent interview with Rabia Mughni, director Shahid Shafaat of Muhabbat Gumshuda Meri revealed that despite suggestions and options of casting more experienced and relatively older actors for the role of Saim and Zubia, he preferred to cast Dananeer Mobeen and Khushhal Khan, because he believes the actors age should be similar to the characters.

This revelation offered a thought-provoking insight, providing a unique viewpoint from a director’s standpoint. It challenges the conventional practice of directors and producers who frequently choose well-known actors for roles without adequately assessing if they can truly embody the character. This recurring problem has, on many occasions, hindered the full potential of characters and dramas, as it stems from biased or misguided casting decisions driven primarily by the star’s popularity.

Let’s explore the options of having experienced actors who have star powers vs relatively new faces for drama Muhabbat Gumshuda Meri in particular.

What did Khushhal Khan and Dananeer Mobeen bring to the table?

Khushhal Khan and Dananeer Mobeen, both of whom are young actors, bring a fresh perspective to the projects they sign up for.

Previously, we have seen Khushhal Khan in the web series Midsummer Chaos, which put him on the map. Later, his acting career accelerated after he took on projects like the hit telefilm Aik Hai Nigaar and drama serial Mushkil and Wehshi.

Our very own pawri horahi girl, Dananeer Mobeen has come a long way. We previously saw her in the megahit project Sinf-e-Aahan where she played the role of Syeda Sidra, a character which certainly became an audience’s favourite due to the humor she brought to the narrative.

The on-screen chemistry in Muhabbat Gumshuda Meri:

The audience is appreciating the chemistry that Dananeer and Khushhal are bringing to the screen. The first-time on-screen pairing provides a much-needed break from the same faces we see on-screen. The palpable connection between Dananeer and Khushhal not only adds depth to their characters but also revitalizes the drama’s romantic plotline, making it a standout aspect of the show. As audiences continue to revel in the unfolding story, it’s clear that this dynamic duo has struck a chord, proving that sometimes, unplumbed chemistry can be the secret ingredient that elevates a drama to new heights.

Unlocking the benefits of seasoned actors and star power in projects: 

Undoubtedly, the presence of seasoned and well-known actors in a project brings a multitude of advantages. To begin with, the extensive experience that these actors bring to the table offers a significant advantage in terms of their performance and ability to adapt to various roles. Their honed skillset not only elevates the overall quality of the production but also provides a valuable learning opportunity for their fellow cast members. As they share their wisdom and expertise, it invariably contributes to the growth and improvement of the entire ensemble.

Sharing our two cents on casting in Muhabbat Gumshuda Meri:

While it is true that many of our aspiring actors find it difficult to carve a place for themselves in the competitive industry, there have been examples of producers and actors who have found hidden talent from the pool of actors and have created stars.

One of the most recent examples is of Sabeena Farooq’s casting in the drama Kabli Pulao. The actress embodies the role of an Afghani immigrant Barbeena. The drama is not only trending but getting positive feedback, which is a testament to great casting, looking beyond numbers and star power.

In essence, the blend of experience, mentorship, and the draw of star power can significantly contribute to the overall impact and appeal of a production, making it a win-win situation for both the cast and the audience. While it takes efforts to mold an actor into a star or great performer, if done right the results are worth applauding as we have seen in drama serial Muhabbat Gumshuda Meri.

Do you agree with the casting choice? Do share with us.

Mannat Murad Sets The Ground Running With Upbeat Start

By
Ifrah Butt
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Mannat Murad First Ep

A project by 7th Sky Entertainment, for Geo Entertainment Mannat Murad has been produced by Abdullah Kadwani and Asad Qureshi and written by Nadia Akhtar. Directed by Syed Wajahat Hussain, the drama boasts a star-studded cast including Iqra Aziz, Talha Chahour, Irsa Ghazal, Ali Safina, Rabya Kulsoom, Uzma Hassan, Mizna Waqas, Sachal Afzal, Sana Nadir and Rehma Zaman amongst others.

Tuesday marked the airing of the first episode of Mannat Murad and the drama has seemed to impress audience from the get go. Its time for Iqra Aziz’s fans to rejoice as the actress is back with a bang after a long hiatus. Starring as the title character of Mannat in Mannat Murad, Iqra Azis is glamourous and exudes confidence, even in her brief presence in the first episode.

The Story

Mannat Murad revolves around the namesake Mannat (Iqra Aziz) and Murad (Talha Chahour) and their struggle to find love. The first episode showed how Murad’s mother is a control freak when it comes to her children. She values her son above everything else, placing her daughters secondary to everything. For Razia Sultana (Irsa Ghazal) her son is the epitome of her existence and she will go to any lengths to protect her son from the evils of her relatives and girls outside who are all eyeing her son as she believes it to be. Razia Sultana has an authoritarian approach when it comes to love marriages. She has an elderly daughter whom she didn’t marry off because she liked someone else. Her other two daughters, one happily married with a husband Razia Sultana despises and another reduced to doing chores around the house, are wary of their mother’s attitude towards them.

Even despite so many restrictions Murad fancies a girl who drops her earring inside the elevator at work. He also feels suffocated with the controlling nature of his mother, who overreacts on the tiniest things possible. Razia Sultana has spent her life as a widow looking after her children and now she expects the same in return from her son, specially when it comes to choosing a bride and valuing her more than his mother and sisters. However, this is a brother, who wants to sacrifice his dreams and ambitions for the happiness of his elder sister who hasn’t been able to get married yet.

On the other hand we have Mannat, a well to do, confident and beautiful university pass out who doesn’t hesitate to point out workplace harassment when she receives an unknown call at an ungodly hour at night. Mannat’s style is impeccable and her bold, courageous nature that inspires people around her.

What We Think of Mannat Murad

Iqra Aziz as Mannat and Talha Chahour as Murad have their own presence in the show but the showstopper for Mannat Murad has to be Irsa Ghazal. The first episode showed very little of Mannat but more of Razia Sultana and Murad’s family dynamics, especially his mother. Razia Sultana might come across as super annoying, portraying the character of Murad’s mom, but the lady Irsa Ghazal, has nailed her character to the T. Not only has she picked up the Punjabi accent as it should be, she has also mastered the mannerisms of desi, Punjabi moms and their differentiated reactions towards their daughters and sons.

For a first episode, Mannat Murad started off at a high note. Audience are sure to flock to a drama that has the perfect mix of emotions and comic relief in a multi-faceted story. For now, we enjoyed the first episode of Mannat Murad. What did you people think?

LSA 2023: Here Are the Nominees for The Coveted Awards

By
Faizanullah Khan
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LSA 2023

The team behind Lux Style Award (LSA) has unveiled an impressive lineup of nominees for their 22nd edition. This highly anticipated annual celebration is set to take place in the bustling city of Karachi, with numerous luminaries from Pakistan’s entertainment and fashion sectors gracing the event.

Since its inception, the LSA has carved out a unique niche in the cultural fabric of Pakistan, earnestly applauding trailblazers in fashion, film, music, and television while fervently fostering the growth of budding talents. Through the years, these awards have played a pivotal role in sculpting and enriching the nation’s creative spheres, recognizing the fundamental significance of arts and artists within Pakistan’s vibrant entertainment scene.

As LSA upholds its rich 22-year-long legacy, enthusiasts can eagerly anticipate a mesmerizing blend of entertainment, exhilaration, and promises to persistently honour diverse talents and ingenuity in the coming years. The iconic silver trophy is poised to recognize the unrivaled efforts of artists who have produced outstanding work across fashion, film, music, and television in 2022. Without further ado, the esteemed nominees are as follows:

FASHION

CRITICS’ CHOICE CATEGORY

Emerging Talent of the Year

1. Abeer Asad
2. Aisha Kamran
3. Maleena Mansoor
4. Mamya Shajaffar
5. Sauban Umais

Fashion Model of the Year (Male/Female)

1. Abeer Asad
2. Fatima Hasan
3. Maha Tahirani
4. Sachal Afzal
5. Sauban Umais

Fashion Forward Brand of the Year

1. Hussain Rehar
2. Khaadi
3. Sania Maskatiya
4. Suffuse by Sana Yasir
5. Zainab Salman

Fashion Photographer/ Videographer of the Year

1. Aleena Naqvi
2. Asad bin Javed
3. HM Studio
4. MHM
5. OKB Films

Fashion Hair and Make-up Artist of the Year

1. Arshad Khan
2. Qasim Liaqat
3. Salman
4. Shainal Pervaiz
5. Sunil Nawab

Fashion Stylist of the Year

1. Hafsa Farooq
2. Mehek Saeed
3. Tabesh Khoja
4. Yasser Dar
5. Zahra Sarfraz

Most Stylish Musician of the Year

1. Aima Baig
2. Meesha Shafi
3. Risham Faiz
4. Taha G
5. Talhah Yunus

FILM

VIEWERS’ CHOICE CATEGORY

Film of the Year

1. Joyland
2. Kamli
3. London Nahi Jaunga
4. Quaid E Azam Zindabad
5. Tich Button

Best Film Actor of the Year – Male

1. Fahad Mustafa – Quaid E Azam Zindabad
2. Farhan Saeed – Tich Button
3. Feroze Khan – Tich Button
4. Humayun Saeed – London Nahi Jaunga
5. Imran Ashraf – Dum Mastam

Best Film Actor of the Year Female

1. Alina Khan – Joyland
2. Hania Amir – Parde Mein Rehne Do
3. Kubra Khan – London Nahi Jaunga
4. Mahira Khan – Quaid E Azam Zindabad
5. Saba Qamar – Kamli

Film Playback Song of the Year

1. Ehsaan Hai Tumhara – Tich Button
2. Loota Rey – Quaid E Azam Zindabad
3. Mahiya Ve Mahiya – London Nahi Jaunga
4. Mainu Tu – Kamli
5. Peela Rung – Parde Mein Rehne Do

CRITICS’ CHOICE CATEGORY

Best Film Director of the Year

1. Saim Sadiq – Joyland
2. Sarmad Sultan Khoosat – Kamli
3. Wajahat Rauf – Parde Mein Rehne Do
4. Yasir Nawaz – Chakkar

Best Film of the Year

1. Dum Mastam
2. Ghabrana Nahi Hai
3. Joyland
4. Kamli
5. Quaid E Azam Zindabad

MUSIC

VIEWERS’ CHOICE CATEGORY

Singer of the Year

1. Abida Parveen – Tu Jhoom
2. Ali Sethi – Pasoori
3. Asfar Hussain – Mehram
4. Asim Azhar – Habibi
5. Kaifi Khalil – Kana Yaari

Song of the Year

1. Habibi – Asim Azhar
2. Kahani Suno – Kaifi Khalil
3. Pasoori – Ali Sethi and Shae Gill
4. Saaz – Auj
5. Tu Jhoom – Abida Parveen and Naseebo Lal

Most Streamed Song of the Year

1. Iraaday – Abdul Hannan
2. Mehram – Asfar Hussain and Arooj Aftab
3. Pasoori – Ali Sethi and Shae Gill
4. Phir Milenge – Faisal Kapadia and Young Stunners
5. Ye Dunya – Talha Anjum, Faris Shafi and Karakoram

CRITICS’ CHOICE CATEGORY

Music Producer of the Year

1. Abdullah Siddiqui and Xulfi – Tu Jhoom
2. Abdullah Siddiqui and Xulfi – Pasoori
3. Abdullah Siddiqui, Xulfi, Arsalan Hasan and Sherry Khattak – Kana Yaari
4. Xulfi and Abdullah Siddiqui – Phir Milenge
5. Zain and Xulfi – Thagyan

TELEVISION

VIEWERS’ CHOICE CATEGORY

Best TV Play

1. Hum Tum
2. Kaisi Teri Khudgarzi
3. Mere Humsafar
4. Sang-e-Mah
5. Sinf-e-Aahan

Best TV Long Serial

1. Betiyaan
2. Mushkil
3. Paristan
4. Siyani
5. Woh Pagal Si

Best TV Actor (Male)

1. Arsalan Naseer – Paristan
2. Atif Aslam – Sang-e-Mah
3. Danish Taimoor – Kaisi Teri Khudgarzi
4. Farhan Saeed – Mere Humsafar
5. Feroze Khan – Habs

Best TV Actor (Female)

1. Ayeza Khan – Chaudhry & Sons
2. Hania Amir – Mere Humsafar
3. Hiba Bukhari – Mere Humnasheen
4. Ramsha Khan – Hum Tum
5. Yumna Zaidi – Bakhtawar

Best Original Soundtrack

1. Habs
2. Hum Tum
3. Kaisi Teri Khudgarzi
4. Mere Humsafar
5. Sang-e-Mah

CRITICS’ CHOICE CATEGORY

Best Emerging Talent TV

1. Atif Aslam – Sang-e-Mah
2. Azaan Sami Khan – Ishq E Laa
3. Dananeer Mobeen – Sinf-e-Aahan
4. Janice Tessa – Habs
5. Sachal Afzal – Bakhtawar

Best Ensemble Play

1. Badshah Begum
2. Hum Tum
3. Mere Humsafar
4. Sang-e-Mah
5. Sinf-e-Aahan

Best TV Actor (Male)

1. Bilal Abbas Khan – Dobara
2. Farhan Saeed – Mere Humsafar
3. Yasir Hussain – Ek Thi Laila
4. Noman Ijaz – Kaisi Teri Khudgarzi
5. Faysal Quraishi – Dil-e-Momin

Best TV Actor (Female)

1. Hadiqa Kiani – Dobara
2. Hania Amir – Mere Humsafar
3. Iqra Aziz – Aik Thi Laila
4. Sajal Ali – Sinf-e-Aahan
5. Yumna Zaidi – Bakhtwar

Best TV Director

1. Aehsun Talish – Chauraha
2. Nadeem Baig – Sinf-e-Aahan
3. Saife Hasan – Sang-e-Mah
4. Shahid Shafaat – Bakhtawar
5. Yasir Hussain – Aik Thi Laila

Best TV Play Writer

1. Faiza Iftikhar – Aik Thi Laila
2. Mustafa Afridi – Sang-e-Mah
3. Nadia Ahmed – Bakhtawar
4. Qaiser Hayat – Ishq E Laa
5. Umera Ahmed – Sinf-e-Aahan

May the best talent win, and may the awards uphold the standards they have forever maintained.

Ehraam-e-Junoon Ends On A High Note With Positive Ending

By
Zainab Mossadiq
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Ending scenes

The curtains closed on GEO Entertainment’s drama Ehraam-e-Junoon last night, after a run of good forty-two episodes, each appreciated by the audience. The audience was left content after getting the ending they were rooting for. But did the drama leave an impact or was it another run-off-the-mill storyline?

Ehraam-e-Junoon is a production venture of 7th Sky Entertainment and is directed by Syed Ramish Rizvi and is written by Jahanzeb Qamar.

There is no doubt about the dramas unparalleled massive popularity and the appreciation it has garnered over the past few months. Neelam Muneer and Imran Abbas were particular favourites, who were one of the major driving forces that contributed towards the ratings with their star presence and their performances.

Before we decode a holistic picture of the drama, let’s dive into the concluding episode.

SPOILERS Ahead.

Ehraam-e-Junoon ends on a happy note:

First thing first, it is worth mentioning at this point, that the forty-two-minute last episode was sufficient for a non-viewer of Ehraam-e-Junoon to get a decent idea what the entire drama was about. With a climax followed by a happy ending, Ehraam-e-Junoon’s last episode has plenty of flashback as fillers.

The drama opens with Nadiya (played by Maira Khan) confessing to Shani that Shanzay is innocent and didn’t conspire with Khawar to harass Sajeela. She also confesses that she helped Khawar in setting up a business and took promises from him to care for Nadiya in return.

The episode continues as Sajeela (Nimra Khan) and Shani’s mother agree to their wedding. Sajeela is adamant to keep Shanzay (played by Neelam Muneer) away from Shani (Imran Abbas) after they get married and get Shanzay’s wealth.

The drama unfolds with a heartbroken Shanzay, who decides to sacrifice her love for Shani’s happiness. She visits Sajeela, transferring her shares to Shani and pledging to step out of his life. Shanzay expresses her desire to remain married to Shani, keeping his name with her.

Sajeela is overjoyed and celebrates her triumph in removing Shanzay from Shani’s life, along with gaining the money. She eagerly contacts Shani, expressing her affection for him, attributing it to his newfound wealth, emphasizing that love holds little value without financial security. Shani is taken aback and reacts angrily, slapping Sajeela while demanding to know Shanzay’s whereabouts.

Shani searches for Sajeela and, upon discovering that she has gone to the airport, rushes to find her. A Pakistani version of the airport scene unfolds, with Shani professing his love for Shanzay and pleading with her not to leave him. Shanzay agrees, and they walk hand in hand from the airport, concluding the drama and leaving viewers content.

What contributed to the success of the project?

There were several elements in the drama that made the drama stand out.

The drama served as a delightful escape, offering viewers a well-deserved respite from their busy workdays. Its uncomplicated storyline guaranteed an enjoyable and stress-free viewing experience.

As a signature production of 7th Sky Entertainment, the drama exuded grandeur, elevating the narrative to larger-than-life proportions and creating memorable moments for the audience to savor.

The on-screen chemistry between Neelam Muneer and Imran Abbas, who portrayed Shanzay and Shani, was nothing short of captivating. They seamlessly immersed themselves in their respective roles, crafting unforgettable moments that left the audience enthralled.

In addition, Nimra Khan’s portrayal of the antagonist, Sajeela, was a standout performance. Her portrayal added depth to her character, making it a compelling watch and adding intrigue to the storyline.

The rest of the cast included Maira Khan as Nadiya, Ismat Zaidi as Kulsoom, Aadi Khan as Subhan (Jugnu), Saqib Sumeer as Khawar, Zainab Qayyum as Samiya (Shanzay’s mother), Mehmood Aslam as Kamran (Shanzay’s father), Birjees Farooqui as Farzana (Sajeela’s mother), Farah Nadeem as Shakeela (Khawar’s mother), Anas Ali Imran as Rumi, Kinza Bukhari as Shaziya, Fahima Awan as Ramsha, and Mirza Rizwan as Faiq.

Another noteworthy aspect of the drama was Neelam’s impeccable fashion choices. Whether it was Western-inspired co-ord sets, elegant long dresses, or exquisite Eastern attire, she effortlessly embraced a diverse range of looks. What truly set her apart was her innate ability to don each ensemble with effortless grace, consistently selecting the perfect outfit for every occasion without ever crossing the line of extravagance.

Our Verdict:

Ehraam-e-Junoon undeniably achieved commercial success and resonated profoundly with its audience. The collaborative efforts of director Syed Ramish Rizvi and writer Jahanzeb Qamar played a pivotal role in making this drama a captivating experience. Notably, the depiction of a powerful, affluent female character actively pursuing a romantic interest and marriage was a refreshing departure from conventional scripts. This innovative approach piqued our curiosity, and we eagerly anticipated how the creative team would navigate this storyline.

While there exist certain elements that didn’t sit well, it is essential to acknowledge the dedication and contributions of everyone involved in this project, which undoubtedly contributed to its success.

Tere Bin 2 vs Khuda Aur Mohabbat 4: Which Should Come First?

By
Faizanullah Khan
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Tere Bin 2 or Khuda aur Mohabbat 4

Fans of Pakistani drama series made by production duo Abdullah Kadwani and Asad Qureshi are eagerly waiting to see which of their favourite shows will make a comeback. After the viewership success of “Khuda Aur Mohabbat 3” and “Tere Bin”, the producers left fans on the edge of their seats by opening up a poll to decide their next project. The question is: will it be “Tere Bin 2” or “Khuda Aur Mohabbat 4”?

Reflecting on Success stories

Geo has been building a strong repertoire of successful dramas in recent years. “Khuda Aur Mohabbat 3”, starring Feroze Khan and Iqra Aziz, was met with unprecedented viewership, with audiences around the world emotionally connecting with the lead characters.

Along with this, “Tere Bin” starring Yumna Zaidi and Wahaj Ali, not only caught international attention but also drastically boosted the actors’ stardom. Even though there was some criticism about prolongation and script changes, audiences were hooked by the palpable on-screen chemistry, leaving them wanting more.

Soon after the grand success of these dramas, the producers announced the potential production of the sequels, reassuring fans that their wish for more enthralling plots and character chemistry would come true soon.

Now, Abdullah Kadwani has made a social post asking fans to voice which one should come first:

Anticipating the Unknown: “Tere Bin 2”

The imminent sequel of the popular Pakistani drama, “Tere Bin,” has fanned the sparks of curiosity amongst fans. After the heartwarming end of the first season, the sequel’s direction remains a mystery so far shrouded in suspense.

The inaugural season concluded on a positive note, with protagonists Murtasim and Meerab finally uniting to embark on their happily-ever-after journey. Their union, a culmination of their undeniable chemistry, stirring raw emotions, and on-screen brilliance, was a fairytale ending that fans ardently desired. In this context, the thought of a sequel ignites questions about the story trajectory.

Will “Tere Bin 2” pick up from where the tale ended, continuing Murtasim and Meerab’s love story? Or will the sequel take an unforeseen twist and follow an entirely different tangent? The prospect of the latter brings up many possibilities. Could we witness a deeper exploration of Murtasim and Meerab’s matrimonial life, detailing joys, trials, and tribulations? Or perhaps the storyline might drift away from the fairytale romance?

And let us not overlook the exciting possibility that the sequel might introduce new characters to spice up the story, adding another layer of enthralling complexity.

Although hard to imagine, the anticipation only adds to the intrigue and excitement that surrounds the sequel of “Tere Bin.” As the narrative remains under wraps, fans are left eagerly awaiting the unveiling of the storyline and, without a doubt, the return of their much-loved characters, Murtasim and Meerab.

Viewers get to choose their sequel

Now all eyes are on a specific post by producer Abdullah Kadwani, who unexpectedly took to Instagram to gauge the fans’ choice for the sequel. The unexpected twist in the narrative sends the fans into a frenzy. The comment section is on fire, overflowing with viewer responses, and revealing which sequel they would choose.

As fans impatiently wait for their voices to be heard and their sequel choice decided upon, let’s reflect on the immense impact viewer feedback has had on these dramas. From script changes to the casting of lead roles and now possibly deciding the fate of sequels, the audience’s role is significant in shaping the future of Pakistani television dramas.

In this era of viewer empowerment, it will be intriguing to see whether “Tere Bin 2” or “Khuda Aur Mohabbat 4” will win this exciting race. Regardless of the outcome, both shows have already etched their names in the annals of Pakistan’s television industry.

Is It Time For Pakistani Dramas To Destigmatize Divorce?

By
Faizanullah Khan
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Ushna shah on divorce

In a society where patriarchal values are deeply entrenched, Pakistani dramas have long depicted divorce as a shameful and taboo experience, perpetuating the stigma associated with marital dissolution. However, with a growing number of individuals in Pakistan seeking a more progressive world, a discourse on the need for change in the way divorce is portrayed on-screen is brewing.

Ushna Shah Speaks Up

Recent comments made by Pakistani actress Ushna Shah on Twitter highlight the crucial need for the media to play its part in challenging societal norms and destigmatizing divorce. Shah tweeted:

“Many scripts I work on perpetuate shame around divorce. While I can’t reshape the conventions of scriptwriting or opt for unemployment, I stand by a vision. As the child of a divorcee who hustled with three jobs to raise us, the stigma on divorced characters feels deeply personal. I’m eager to be part of a story that addresses the stigma of divorce and combats the shame of being single after, celebrating the journey to independence and joy.”

Shah’s candid revelation underscores the importance of addressing this issue within the television industry. In many Pakistani dramas, divorced women are often relegated to the fringes of society; marginalizing them and making them feel worthless. By perpetuating these narratives through mainstream media, a false and damaging notion is reinforced – that a woman’s dignity is intricately linked to her marital status.

Bringing Change

It is high time for directors and producers in the Pakistani entertainment industry to step up and break away from these regressive stigmas. Instead of showcasing marriages that thrive on toxicity and belittling those who choose to walk away, it is crucial to empower individuals, especially women, to escape unhealthy relationships.

In the modern world, where individuals are striving for gender equality and the right to lead fulfilling lives, popular media must join the fight for progress. By advocating for stories that normalize the concept of divorce, the Pakistani entertainment industry can not only reform regressive ideals but also extend support to those who may be fighting their own battles.

Convincing Producers

Convincing producers to invest in such ‘risqué’ narratives might be challenging at first, as they may face backlash from conservative factions of society. However, the shift toward embracing change is already happening, catalyzed by public figures like Ushna Shah.

With the right stories and a commitment to address the stigma surrounding divorce, Pakistani dramas can become vital tools in changing mindsets and breaking down outdated beliefs. Ultimately, this movement will lead to a more progressive society that celebrates independence, happiness, and well-being, regardless of one’s marital status.

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