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Celebrating Excellence: Pakistani Entertainment Stars Honored with Civil Awards

By
Faizanullah Khan
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National Awards

In a remarkable display of recognition and appreciation, the President of Pakistan, on Monday, announced a list of 694 individuals from both Pakistan and foreign nations who will be conferred civil awards for their exceptional contributions across various domains.

The awards will be presented on Pakistan Day on March 23, 2024.

Celebrating Excellence in Entertainment

Honorees spanning diverse fields and walks of life are honored in the civil awards passed on each year. These individuals have not only enthralled audiences with their talent and charisma but have also made significant contributions to society through their work, making them deserving recipients of these prestigious awards.

Who’s Getting What?

The realm of music will see the maestro Rahat Fateh Ali Khan being bestowed with the “Hilal-e-Imtiaz,” recognizing his profound impact on Sufi and classical music. Sarmad Khoosat and Bilal Lashari, both renowned filmmakers who have elevated Pakistani cinema to international heights, will receive the “Sitara-e-Imtiaz.”

Among the other entertainment stars slated to be honored are Adnan Siddiqui, an actor whose powerful performances have left an indelible mark on the industry, earning him the esteemed title of “Pride of Performance.” Sajal Aly, celebrated for her versatile acting prowess, will be awarded the “Tamgha-e-Imtiaz,” an accolade that underlines her contribution to the art of storytelling.

The list of honorees continues, with names like Sheema Karmani, Shazia Manzoor, Ajab Gul, Fizza Ali Meerza, and Khalid Bin Shaheen being recognized for their contributions with titles such as “Pride of Performance” and “Tamgha-e-Imtiaz.”

The full list of awards conferred to celebrities is mentioned below:

Hilal-i-Imtiaz

Rahat Ali Khan Arts — (Qawwali/ Singing)

Mohammad Ahmed Shah — Arts (Culture)

Mehmood Ahmed Tahir Bhatti — Film Direction & Fashion Designing

Mr. Muhammad Anwar Masood Literature (Poetry)

Sitara-i-Imtiaz

Sarmad Khoosat (Filmmaker and director)

Mr. Bilal Lashari (Direction, Cinematography, Script writing)

Duraid Qureshi (Public Service)

Mr. Satish Anand (Film Production/ Distribution)

Mr. Javed Bashir Ahmad (Singing)

Mr. Faakhir Mehmood (Singing)

Ms. Shabnam (Singing)

President’s Award for Pride of Performance

Mr. Gulab Khel (Rubab playing)

Ms. Shazia Manzoor (Singing)

Ms. Dhai Bai alias Mai Dhai (Singing)

Mr. Hamayoon Khan (Singing)

Mr. Inayat Hussain Bhatti (late) (Film Acting, Production, Direction, Script Writing)

Mr. Zulfiqar Ali Attre (Music Composing)

Mr. Ajab Gul Arts (Acting / Direction)

Mr. Ishrat Abass (Drama/Theater/ Radio/
Actor)

Mr. Shakir Zeb (Music Direction)

Mr. Qadir Bux Mithoo (Comedy)

Mr. Mehboob Ali (Artist & Designer, Woodcut
Print Specialist)

Ms. Mussarrat Kalanchvi (Urdu / Saraiki Fiction & Play Writing)

Mr. Adnan Siddiqui (Acting, Host, Production)

Ms. Zubaida (Naghma) (Film Artist)

Mr. Hassan Askari (Film Direction /Writing)

Ms. Sheema Karmani (Classical Dancing/ Choreography)

Mr. Naseer Baig Mirza (Comparing, Writing, Producer)

Mr. Ajab Khan (Calligraphy & Painting)

Mr. Baqir Abbas (Flute playing)

Tamgha-i-Imtiaz

Mr. Muhammad Shahbaz Qamar (Naat Khawani)

Ms. Sajal Ali (Acting)

Syeda Mehrbano Kazim (Alias Juggan Kazim) (Anchoring /Acting)

Mr. Abdul Batin Farooqi (Acting)

Mr. Almas Khan Khalil (Folk Pashto Singing)

Mr. Fazal Wahab Dard (Singing)

Ustad Rustam Fateh Ali Khan (Classical Singing)

Mr. Imran Aziz Mian (Qawwali)

Dr. Khalid Bin Shaheen Acting / Production

Mr. Shahzad Rafique (Film Direction)

Ms. Fizza Ali Meerza (Production / Screen Writing)

Mr. Amjad Sheikh (Film Production/ Distribution)

Mr. Abdul Wasay Chaudhary (Film/Drama Acting)

Mr. Farooq Hassan (Host)

Diversity of Talent

This ensemble of awardees showcases the diversity and richness of Pakistani talent. From the captivating performances on screen to the soul-stirring melodies that resonate far beyond borders, these individuals have touched hearts, bridged divides, and united people through the power of art.

As the investiture ceremony approaches, it is important to acknowledge the impact of civil awards not only on the recipients but on the larger societal narrative. Civil awards serve as an inspiration for aspiring artists, encouraging them to reach for the stars while upholding the values of creativity, dedication, and social responsibility towards the country.

Icon Awards 2023: All You Need to Know About the Government’s Initiative

By
Zainab Mossadiq
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Icon Awards

A pivotal piece of the puzzle that was long amiss, curbing the growth of the entertainment industry of Pakistan, was the resolute support of the government. With Pakistan completing its 76th year of independence, the missing piece has been put in its place.

Ahead of Independence Day celebrations, artists in the entertainment sector in Pakistan rejoiced over the acknowledgement of the film sector as a formal industry by the government. This was announced in the National Icon Award 2023 ceremony which was held on 12th August in Lahore.

The ceremony was graced by the presence of Marriyum Aurangzeb, the Federal Minister of Information & Broadcasting, who took the initiative of bringing a positive change in the organizational structure of the entertainment industry. In presence was also Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif to acknowledge the efforts. In addition, many notable personalities of the film and drama industry were also in attendance. The event was hosted by Juggun Kazim and Sami Khan.

Policy changes implemented by the government:

Following the pivotal moment where filmmaking was formally recognized as an industry, Marriyum Aurangzeb took the stage and announced the new policies that will be implemented to aid the growth of entertainment industry as well as the initiatives taken by the government.

Firstly, with the collaborative effort of Sultana Siddiqui and HUM TV, the government of Pakistan has released a book that encapsulates the history of Pakistani cinema.

Following that it was announced that the fee structure of PTV workers was revised, and the actors would be paid according to the market pay rate.

Moreover, the launch of Ptvflix and National Radio Pakistan Awaz Khazana was also announced. This thoughtful initiative aims to digitally store all the work and collaboration of different artists for radio, television, as well as cinema.

A video shared by Marriyum Aurangzeb on Twitter, gives an insight into efforts put in by the Ministry of Information and broadcasting to promote the growth of entertainment sector:

PTV

Building of a virtual studio

PTV academy and new studios renovated for schools, colleges, and universities for arts broadcasting

Upgradation of equipment, cameras, and studios

Fee structure revised after 27 years

Radio

Largest artificial intelligence based digital live monitoring and archiving of print electronic, digital, and foreign media.

Artificial intelligence-based sentiment analysis unit for effective execution of government narrative.

PEMRA Amendment bill 2023:

Defining the principle of self-regulation by including definition of misinformation and disinformation and amendment to secure their salaries and minimum wage by law under severe violation.

5.5 billion DRM project reaching out to 52 countries

12 new state of art studios

Other Information

Besides this the following information were approved;

Recovery of Rs. 14 crores under implementation tribunal newspaper employees to clear their salaries.

Film policy-film production:

Film making and lab import

All tax-free TI to facilitate film making

PM film finance fund of Rs. 2 billion

Film artists health fund of Rs. 1 billion

Film industry considered as social corporate responsibility which means if corporate sector makes films, the investment will be given tax rebate

Production withholding tax zero

New building of SRBC: operational with 150 rooms and virtual studios

Information service academy: complete revision of the module and affiliations with leading university

NASFF (National Amateur Short Film Festival) initiative to empower next generation of film makers by giving fully funded 1 year scholarship to New York Film Academy.

Pakistan’s first music policy which aims to reserve the rich musical heritage of Pakistan. The details were shared by Marriyum Aurangzeb.

Distribution of 5 health cards as part of health insurance policy:

In a remarkable stride towards enriching the lives of artists and acknowledging their work, the government took the incentive of extending health insurance to the entertainment industry and distributed five health cards to five senior and esteemed artists including:

Saleem Haider: Music director  

Shama Mumtaz: Actress

Bushra Sadiq: Singer

Asad Abbas: folk classical singer

Ustad Jaffar Hussain: Musician

Recipients of Icon Awards 2023:

To acknowledge the multitude of esteemed actors and other notable personalities from our entertainment industry, spanning both veteran figures and present-day performers, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif himself conferred the Icon Awards 2023. These awards were presented to recognize the hard work, noteworthy achievements, and their role in enhancing the industry.

The winners included:

Humayun Saeed

Fawad Khan

Bushra Ansari

Bilal Lashari

Wahaj Ali

Nadia Jamil

Resham

Mawra Hussain

Mohib Mirza

Sanam Saeed

Meera

Nadeem Baig

Vaneezah Ahmed

Usman Peerzada

Saba Hameed

Rubina Ashraf

 Iffat Umar

Ghulam Mohiuddin

Sangeeta

Babra Sharif

Sultana Siddiqui

Khalid Abbas Dar

Ajmal Choudhary

Hassan Askari

Nisho

The way forward:

In culmination, the recognition extended to illustrious actors, coupled with the implementation of forward-thinking policies, serves as a catalyst for transformation in the entertainment industry. This synergy not only honors the contributions of these celebrated figures but also builds a bridge between the public sector and the entertainment industry.

Beyond its symbolic significance, this acknowledgement empowers artists, affording them a more influential role in shaping the trajectory of their field. Moreover, the commitment to amplifying artists’ rights and voice through powerful legislative amendments instills a newfound confidence within the industry. Investors, recognizing this protective framework, are poised to infuse resources with a sense of assurance, fostering an environment ripe for innovation, growth, and a positive portrayal of the nation’s image.

Imran Ashraf: A Genius Move for the Future of ‘Mazaaq Raat’

By
Faizanullah Khan
-
Imran Ashraf

Imran Ashraf, known and beloved for his impressive acting range, is ready to take over as the new face of the popular comedy talk show, ‘Mazaaq Raat’, on Dunya News. Expectations are sky-high as audiences anticipate a taste of Ashraf’s hosting abilities for the first time.

The actor will be filling the shoes of the talented Vasay Chaudhry, whose recent announcement of departure after a successful run of seven years as show’s host has left fans feeling a wave of nostalgia. Despite the palpable sentiments of longing for Chaudhry, there is a buzz of excitement surrounding Imran Ashraf’s new role.

The Legacy of Mazaaq Raat

The show has a long-standing tradition of comedic excellence and engaging conversations, a legacy Vasay Chaudhry carried forward brilliantly after the previous host Nauman Ijaz left the stage in 2016. For seven years, Chaudhry drew in audiences with his eloquence and wit, leaving behind a memorable legacy that fans are loath to let go.

A New Dawn with Imran Ashraf

Imran Ashraf’s appointment as the show’s new torchbearer is being hailed as a genius move. Known for his natural comedic skills and quality delivery, Ashraf seems the perfect fit for a show that champions humor above all else. His talent for comedy has been evident in his previous performances, making him stand out among his contemporary actors. As such, the anticipation surrounding his first appearance on the show is understandable.

Ashraf’s Command over Languages

Of noteworthy recognition is his mastery over the Punjabi language, demonstrated in his commendable performance in ‘Heer Da Hero’. The Punjabi culture, known for its rich humor tradition, plays a crucial part in ‘Mazaaq Raat’, and Ashraf’s fluency in the language could potentially elevate the show’s quality even further. Although the show is primarily conducted in Urdu, the Punjabi language occasionally slips in, adding a distinct flavor. Ashraf’s proven proficiency in both languages is poised to accentuate this dual linguistic effect.

Welcoming a New Chapter

As we bid farewell to an iconic era defined by Vasay Chaudhry, we also look forward to welcoming a new chapter determined by Imran Ashraf’s charisma and comic timing. Fans, pundits, and critics alike are eager to see how Ashraf carves out his unique niche in the series, and there are high hopes that he will indeed uphold and perhaps even enhance, the comedic spirit that ‘Mazaaq Raat’ is renowned for.

Only time will tell if this indeed proves to be a “genius move”, but for now, we sit on the edge of our seats, waiting for the curtain to rise on Imran Ashraf’s exhilarating new act.

Kim’s Confession of Love in ‘Yunhi’: A Ray of Hope for Troubled Marriages

By
Faizanullah Khan
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Yunhi love confession

In the captivating Pakistani drama ‘Yunhi’, we finally witness the long-awaited love confession from Kim, portrayed by the talented Maya Ali, to her marital partner Dawood, brought to life by the charismatic Bilal Ashraf. The intimate display of affection that unfolded in the pivotal 26th episode stands as a beacon of inspiration for many- shedding light on the power of love in overcoming hurdles.

The Much-Anticipated Love Confession

Kim and Dawood have been subtly drifting towards each other, hinting at a looming love union. Fans were fervently looking forward to this confession- a moment elegantly captured in a recent episode. Mired in poetic resonance true to the spirit of ‘Yunhi’, both Ali and Ashraf passionately breathed life into the scene, evoking a euphoric sense of anticipation and gratification in viewers.

Stellar Performances Setting High Standards

In the directorial hands of Ehteshamuddin, the overall pacing of the drama was deliberately slow, yet consistently engaging. The narrative intricately interweaved potent messages, accentuated by power-packed performances of Ali and Ashraf. The coveted actors have captured the audience’s hearts with their unique characterizations.

The unusual positivity radiated by Dawood- a trait rarely seen in lead male characters on Pakistani screens- acted as a refreshing change, adding a layer of youthful exuberance to the depth of the drama.

A Beacon of Hope for Troubled Marriages

The love story of Kim and Dawood aesthetically unfolds the many trials and tribulations the duo endure through 26 episodes of ‘Yunhi.’ Their confession of love in the very same episode carries profound significance showing how raw, unfiltered love triumphs over everything else, serving as a ray of hope for married couples navigating through rough waters.

It teaches the audience that relationships aren’t just about falling in love, but about choosing to stay in love despite the odds.

Their love story has been, and continues to be, an anthemic call to all couples experiencing difficult times.

Our Verdict

‘Yunhi’ with its beautifully sketched characters and soul-stirring narrative spells an inspiring tale of love and resilience. The story of Kim and Dawood serves as a beacon of hope for married couples in trouble. It faithfully imparts the stirring message of love’s triumph in the face of adversity, inspiring viewers to believe in the power of love.

As Kim and Dawood stood brave in their bold confession, they lit a flame of hope for many, proving that true love perseveres, reshapes, rebuilds, and above all, wins.

When Will Our Public Stop Berating Celebs During Their Happy Moments?

By
Zainab Mossadiq
-
Celebs celebrating happy moments

As a nation we are quick to point out mistakes of those in the public eye. A slip here and a controversy would have taken birth before you even know it. This puts our actors in a difficult spot. Do they alienate the world to protect their privacy? Or should they continue sharing their personal life with their fans despite the potential of negative remarks? Is it even acceptable for the audience to comment or express their disapproval irrespective of the fact whether they are in limelight or not? 

These are strenuous questions to answer but a real-life situation that requires to deal with them is much harder. So how do our actors draw the line when it comes to opening up about their personal life? 

Over the years we have seen actors opting for different routes. Let’s dive a bit deeper to see how the biggest stars of the country balance the art of sharing and protecting their personal lives.  

Anzela Abbasi wedding controversy

Anzela Abbasi, the daughter of Juvaria Abbasi and Shamoon Abbasi, recently tied the knot in a sequence of grand functions. However, despite the joyous occasion, the aura was pierced by sham, cryptic social media posts and controversial remarks due to several events. Firstly, Shamoon Abbasi, Anzela’s father and Juvaria’s ex-husband, was not in attendance, causing people to speculate. To add fuel to the fire, there was an exchange of cryptic and ambiguous messages on social media by Juvaria Abbasi and Shamoon Abbasi. 

Anzela also found herself embroiled in controversy on her wedding. She came under fire for her decision to wed during Muharram, a holy month for many. Additionally, Anzela’s modern and edgy choice of attire throughout the wedding ceremonies was also questioned by some. 

Social media enthusiasts didn’t hold back in openly expressing their disapproval, a situation that might have posed a challenge for the bride. Two contrasting viewpoints have emerged. Some believe it’s the bride’s significant day, granting her the autonomy to choose her attire and embrace her comfort. Conversely, an opposing stance highlights that sharing videos and photos invites public commentary and it falls within rights of the public to express their opinion openly.  

To announce or not to announce: Aiman Khan and Minal Khan pregnancy news  

Another controversy that recently came to light was when the actress Minal Khan announced her pregnancy. Aiman Khan and Minal Khan were both expecting together indeed a delight for their families. Aiman Khan, who hadn’t announced her pregnancy, took to Instagram to announce the birth of her second daughter, Miral Muneeb, born on August 7th.  

Following that, Minal Khan announced her pregnancy with an awe-worthy photoshoot with her husband. However, the couple came under scrutiny; while some people congratulated the young couple others were sceptical about the ‘modern’ photoshoot and considered it was best to keep this matter private.  

However, when it came to Aiman Khan, who didn’t announce her pregnancy, the public still did not leave the former actress in peace, constantly commenting on her body weight and body shamming Aiman for her weight gain.  

This leaves us perplexed as to what is the right approach for public figures to share the happy occasion with the fans, knowing the aftermath of both is criticism and public reprimand which causes distress to an expecting mother. 

Persistent Pattern: Instances of Celebrities Facing Public Hostility Over Time 

Regrettably, this is not an isolated occurrence. Over time, we have witnessed numerous instances where public figures have faced animosity due to matters that become known to the public, whether voluntarily or unintentionally.  

Hania Aamir has repeatedly faced the music for her outfit choice and the way the actress decides the carry herself. One may say that she is an independent woman, responsible for her own actions, but most of her audience feels okay to criticize the actress.  

If you think that Hania Aamir is prone to criticism because she opts to share her personal life, think again. Naimal Khawar who bid farewell to the limelight and only shared certain aspects of her personal life on her Instagram raised eyebrows for her alleged cosmetic surgeries. Although, the former actress never addressed the topic in public, she still had to face the backlash just because she is a public figure.  

Guarding their privacy: Actors who opt to remain away from unnecessary limelight 

Conversely, there exist actors who seldom engage in sharing their personal lives. Their Instagram accounts primarily revolve around professional content, focusing on work-related updates and the promotion of their upcoming projects. 

There are many megastars who only occasionally share their personal lives with the public. Case in point Mahira Khan, Sajal Aly, Fawad Khan and Saba Qamar.  

In an era of heightened digital connectivity, it’s crucial for the general public to grasp the notion that actors, like everyone else, deserve their personal space. The spotlight they inhabit on screen shouldn’t be misconstrued as an invitation for invasive scrutiny in their off-screen lives.

As they conscientiously navigate their online presence, actors bear a responsibility to uphold a respectful and professional image. However, it’s equally imperative for the audience to be mindful of their remarks and critiques.

How Green Entertainment Dramas Compare to Other Entertainment Content

By
Kasim Bilal
-
Green Entertainment

Pakistani viewers have become quite savvy these days. Just a little over a decade ago, people only had their televisions as a source of entertainment at home. This has changed over the years with places like YouTube and streaming services such as Netflix becoming more common in the country.

The options are now endless for the audience and Pakistani dramas don’t enjoy the luxury of being the only source of entertainment. So Green Entertainment entered the marketplace at a time when viewers have a lot of complaints from the content being presented to them by TV serials. Let’s see how they used that to their advantage and how they are faring almost a month after launching.

Fresh New Stories

Viewers have been very clear about the fact that they are tired of seeing stories that only focus on saas bahu drama or domestic violence. They crave stories that feature something new and exciting and that is exactly what Green Entertainment is giving them.

All their shows are unlike each other, featuring fresh and unique storytelling. The stories are character-driven, and said characters are incredibly dynamic and three-dimensional. There are romance dramas like Kabli Pulao and Idiot which are much more than just romantic stories.

Kabli Pulao showcases Afghan refugees and features a love story between a middle-aged man and an Afghan widow. Themes of the show also include showing people of different cultures and backgrounds falling in love and building a relationship together. Mohammed Ehteshamuddin and Sabeena Farooq have both garnered praise for their performances.

Daurr is an adaptation of a book which features three women from different walks of life. Daurr refers to the race of getting on top in life and where ambition takes us. It gives us three unapologetically ambitious women, both as housemakers and businesswomen.

Then we have Jindo which is a show about a woman fiercely tackling the patriarchy in a tribal setting. The rich and arresting backdrop of the Sindhi deserts is captured really well by the show. The show, which is based on a true story, is meant to be an incredibly impowering story for all women.

These are just a few examples out of a plethora of new and exciting content from the new network.

Siyaah is a Game Changer

While the rest of the shows mentioned above are still dramas, Siyaah is something new. This is Green Entertainment’s new show which blends genres like thriller, drama and comedy with the horror genre. The show is an anthology series featuring multiple stories that aren’t connected.

Audiences are loving this one a lot, with the show’s YouTube comments filled with viewers comparing it to Netflix shows. That is quite high praise considering the caliber of content that Netflix produces. Shows like Siyaah allow the audience to relax and enjoy an hour of different horror stories, which is a staple of TV networks across the globe but was sorely missing from our channels.

Green Entertainment truly has something special on their hands. They have tapped into topics that audiences have been dying to see on their screens. Their choice of adding anthologies and miniseries is also inspired. We can’t wait to see what more content they put out.

What’s Happening With The Abbasi’s?

By
Faizanullah Khan
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Abbasi family

In a family drama that’s turned into public turmoil, Anzela Abbasi, the daughter of Juvaria Abbasi and Shamoon Abbasi, recently tied the knot in a sequence of grand functions. However, despite the joyous occasion, the aura has been pierced by sham, cryptic social media posts and controversial remarks.

Absence of the Father, Shamoon Abbasi

Despite the fanfare, one crucial family member was conspicuously missing from the festivities. Shamoon Abbasi, Anzela’s father and Juvaria’s ex-husband, was not in attendance. Shamoon took to social media to address this glaring absence. In a Facebook post, he claimed his decision to distance himself from ‘shameless people.’ He made it clear that he never wanted any association with ‘impudent and immodest’ individuals, irrespective of their relationship to him.

The post was heavy in tone and ambiguity. It left many guessing who Shamoon was referring to in his cryptic message before it was taken down. The question still lingers, whose behavior provoked Shamoon’s bitter words?

Juvaria’s Mysterious Retort

In probable response to Shamoon’s statement, Juvaria shared her own post on Instagram. The post, including the line ‘a healthy mind doesn’t speak ill of others,’ was seen by many as a cryptic retort to Shamoon’s outburst. The back-and-forth saga has left fans and followers scratching their heads, translating these uncertain social posts into veritable indirect ping-pong discourse.

Anzela’s Controversial Response Over Wedding Dates and Attire

Moving on from the parental feud, Anzela has found herself embroiled in controversy. She came under fire for her decision to wed during Muharram, a holy month for many. When questioned, Anzela replied with a dismissive ‘now I have to educate you over names. Nah, this wack’. This tone-deaf response has been poorly-received, drawing the public’s ire.

Additionally, Anzela’s choice of attire throughout the wedding ceremonies was also questioned by some. Her dresses, although modern and elegant, deviated from traditional norms, leaving some traditionalists discontented.

Shamoon Abbasi’s Unfortunate Accident Amidst the Chaos

In the midst of this conundrum, Shamoon Abbasi has been through a harrowing ordeal. Adding to the existing tension and upheaval, he found himself in a car accident. Following the incident, Shamoon took to social media to reveal his predicament. He posted a picture of his heavily bandaged face as he recuperated from the crash.

With the existing controversy surrounding his absence from his daughter’s wedding, one can’t help but ponder the extra weight that this accident may have added to the emotional and physical well-being of the involved parties. This unfortunate event brings the existing hardships of the Abbasi family into even sharper focus.

News of Shamoon’s accident was revealed earlier by sister Anoushay Abbasi on Instagram. The actress shared the message below on her story:

Our Thoughts

There seems to be more than meets the eye in the Abbasi family drama. With cryptic social media posts from Shamoon and Juvaria, and Anzela’s controversial remarks and attire, the wedding celebrations have become an intriguing backdrop to emerging scandals. As fans and the public scurry to piece together the puzzle, the brouhaha ensures one thing – the events happening with the Abbasi’s are anything but ordinary.

Promising Beginnings: Mein Kicks Off with a Gripping First Episode

By
Zainab Mossadiq
-
Mein first episode

The new drama around the block Mein came and conquered, leaving a striking impact on the audience following the release of the first episode. And the question is why shouldn’t it have? After the release of a promising set of teasers that left us intrigued, the first episode was a must watch for not only Wahaj Ali and Ayeza Khan fans but also for all Pakistani drama fanatics sniffing for a compelling story. And we assure you they got one.  

Produced by Big Bang Entertainment, the drama Mein aired on ARY Digital, taking the coveted Monday slot and replacing the popular show Mujhe Pyaar Hua Tha. Wahaj Ali fans could not be more elated with this allotment, for this means an uninterrupted screen time of their favourite actor on Mondays.   

Unveiling the plot:  

Mein is a direction of Badar Mehmood and is penned by Zanjabeel Asim Shah; a combo which has previously given many hit projects like television series Balaa. Combining their artistic creativity, the director-writer is all set to give the audience another compelling drama to watch out for. 

Mein opens with a larger-than-life shot of Zayd (Wahaj Ali) standing tall, exuding grace and power, on a yacht in the sea, with a voiceover in the background explaining the difference between ‘ana and khudi’ (ego and self-respect). This sets the tone for the rest of the episode, triumphantly keeping the audience hooked.  

Cut to, we are introduced to Mubashira (Ayeza Khan), a rich, spoiled, self-obsessed individual, who is adamant to have things her way. She is married to Mohib, a patient and accommodating individual who tries his best to win his wife’s heart, succumbing to her small needs and demands.  

The episode unravels as Mubashira prepares for her second wedding anniversary, determined to ensure everything turns out to be perfect. Zayd, is also expected to be in attendance for the anniversary party, following his return from Dubai.  

Azeekah Daniel also makes an appearance in the drama as Ayra. Ayra belongs from a middle-class family and lives with her brother and his wife after her parents’ death. Determined to prove herself, Ayra is determined to get a job while her brother wants her to get married. However, Ayra refuses every proposal for Zayd, who is interested in her.  

Following this we see the wedding anniversary party of Mohib and Mubashira, where Mohib is nowhere to be seen. Zayd is in attendance with his father and sister alongside a houseful of guests. The drama ends on an intense note as Mubashira receives divorce papers from Mohib as an anniversary gift.  

Remarkable execution:  

The episode was an exciting watch that exuded suspense, thrill, and a lot of drama. While we have seen several projects in the past years about the life of the rich, the effortless direction and intelligent writing promises something out of the box and unique in the case of Mein.  

Furthermore, the lavish domains of Mohib and Mubashira’s as well as Zayd’s house exudes luxury that make the drama more opulent and worthwhile to watch.  

The performances: 

Ayeza Khan ate and left no crumbs. She stole the show as Mubashira and made her presence felt. She depicted the cold-heartedness and Mubashira’s self-obsessed, arrogant nature aptly on-screen. Also, her wardrobe choice was immaculate that added to her character and made it more believable.  

As of Wahaj Ali, he ruled the scene with his magnetic and charismatic personality. Although, the first episode did not show much for the audience to explore Zayd’s character and thus the margin for Wahaj to perform was lean. 

But one thing we can say with certainty is that Wahaj and Ayeza have burst the initial doubts the audience have of their unusual pairing and promise a sizzling chemistry in the future episodes.  

The drama has a strong supporting cast which includes Usman Peerzada, Shehzad Nawaz, Aijaz Aslam, Agha Mustafa, Nameer Khan, Sabeena Syed, Alizay Rasool, Rohi Ghazali, and Shiza Khan. 

Our Projection: 

Since the promo and teasers of the drama have already laid out a blueprint for the drama; viewers can expect Zayd and Mubashira getting married soon, due to their family pressure, after Mubashira gets a divorce and Ayra’s brother refuses to marry her to Zayd. 

As Zayd and Mubashira get married, what waits to be seen is the battle between two clashing egos and humans who refuse to surrender and compromise i.e the battle of ‘mein’ and the journey of from ‘mei hoon’ to ‘mei tha’. The concept is unique and intriguing to watch and we are looking forward to see the upcoming episodes of Mein.  

Fairy Tale Picks Up from Where It Left with Exciting Start to Season 2

By
Zainab Mossadiq
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Fairytale S2

The wait is over for all Fairy Tale fervent fans, who were eagerly anticipating the release of the second season, with their magical wish bestowed by HUM TV as the mega episode of the drama aired on Saturday night. Hence, double the dose of entertainment.

For those living under a rock, who didn’t know about Fairy Tale, here is a little recap. HUM TV’s romantic-comedy Fairy Tale released last Ramadan. The drama follows the story of an undeterred girl, Umeed, aiming to live a life of luxury and have it all without putting in the effort. A game show not only changes her life but also introduces her to Farjad, with whom she falls in love. The story navigates around Umeed and Farjad and their love story with a parallel track of other characters including Haya, Sameer, AK Khan, and Mimi.

With millions of views, massive popularity and a strong fan base under their belt, the makers of Fairy Tale decided to renew the drama for another season, continuing the story with the same characters.

Fairy tale continues to win hearts:

Combined, the drama has more than 6 million views on the first episode, which was released in two parts, reaffirming the massive popularity of Fairy Tale.

As they say, numbers don’t lie. The saying stands true in the case of Fairy Tale which has not only received a substantial number of views but also received appreciation from the fans who thoroughly enjoyed the mega episode.

Let’s dive deep to see what stood out in the second season of the drama.

The quintessential execution:

Written by Sarah Majeed and directed by Ali Hassan, Fairy Tale 2 continues to represent the troubles of the youth, ever so subtly, which is ingrained into a romantic tale.

The episode begins with a recap of the first season, in a rather intelligent way, where we see all the characters relishing the old memories as a movie running in a cinema.

The rest of the episode also unfolds seamlessly from where the last season left off.

Is it going to be a magical ending for these three Fairy Tale couples?

What makes Fairy Tale an engaging plot is undoubtedly the characters and the ensemble cast, which make every scene worth watching.

As for our lead couple, we see Umeed (Sehar Khan) and Farjad (Hamza Sohail) head over heels in love, anticipating their marriage soon. However, the couple finds it difficult to separate their professional and personal life when Umeed joins Farjad’s office. Due to conflict of interests, we see trouble in paradise.

However, we thoroughly enjoyed the interaction between Umeed and Farjad, especially in the scene when Farjad finds Umeed sleeping in his office. It was refreshing for the audience to see the romantic side of Farjad taking over and needless to say Sehar Khan and Hamza Sohail managed to keep the magic of their chemistry alive.

However, things are not going so well for the rest of the two couples. On one side we see Mimi (Amna Youzasaif) desperately reaching out to AK Khan (Ali Safina) who is nowhere in the picture and apparently off to Dubai.

As for Haya (Aena Khan) and Sameer (Adnan Raza Mir) their marriage plans are put to a halt after Haya plans to become a doctor. We appreciate the writer for inculcating a progressive plot where the girl is encouraged to fulfill her dreams.

All the three narratives intertwined together, alongside a substantial contribution by the rest of the cast, make the drama enthralling and entertaining to watch.

The rest of the members of the cast includes Saleem Sheikh, Salma Hasan, Tehseen Wajahat, Hina Rizvi, and Saman Ansari.

The satirical commentary on social evils:

Perhaps the iconic scene of this week’s episode was Nighat’s track (Farjad’s mother) who is torn between being the kind mother-in-law and the evil and possessive mother who refuses to accept her son’s wife.

Saman Ansari nailed it with her performance as she depicted the various emotions of a mother who is possessive about her son and afraid of losing him, as a new woman enters her life, while trying to figure out the best way to embrace her new role as a mother-in-law.

Furthermore, the scene which had the audience rolling on the floor was the scene where Farjad, Umeed, Mimi, and Nighat do an enactment from a television Indian soap opera scene in Nighat’s imagination.

This scene and the entire plot were a fresh break from all the saas-bahu saga and damsel in distress dramas we see every day.

We cannot wait to see how the bond between Nighat and Umeed develops and how the dynamic duo breaks the stereotypes.   It is hard to live up to the expectations of the audience after a successful season, but Fairy Tale makers have done so with their sequel. The drama has managed to keep intact the original elements which the audience loved while adding different elements and plots to the story.

Pakistani Drama Crescendos: Delving into Recent Epic Climaxes

By
Zainab Mossadiq
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Pakistani drama climaxes

Pakistani audience’s commitment to dramas is unwavering. Viewers tune in every week-or in some cases every day- for months on end to see a drama head towards its end. As the curtains are closed and the credits roll with the conclusion of a drama, the most unforgettable part is the climatic moments that lead to it.

The climax of a drama, followed by its conclusion, can indeed establish how the drama will be remembered for years to come. From heart-wrenching revelations to nail-biting confrontations, from underwhelming ending to illogical plot twist, it is safe to say Pakistani audience has seen it all.

Let’s deconstruct the climaxes of recently ended Pakistani dramas and their impact.

Tere Bin:

Concluding a drama that practically ruled all platforms related to the Pakistani entertainment industry and had 3+ billion views on YouTube collectively for its 58 episodes, is difficult to say the least.

However, while Tere Bin ended on a happy note, its climax was a bit contrary to viewer expectations. While we expected a grand climax and gesture that brought Murtasim and Meerub together after years, all we got was a combination of some over dramatic gestures by Haya-the main antagonist- a conclusion that didn’t justify Haya’s punishment for all the heinous crimes she committed.

The saving grace was eventually the happy conclusion in which the audience were graced with some Meerub-Murtasim scenes.

Kuch Ankahi:

Kuch Ankahi was indeed a visual treat for the audience and its last episode is perhaps among one of the best concluding episodes we have seen in years. The maestro Nadeem Baig proved his talent with this one and left the audience in awe.

The last episode had it all; suspense, drama, romance, and element of curiosity, which remain intact through the entirety of the last episode. The drama reached a logical conclusion that did not derail from the plot it was resting on while keeping the element of curiosity alive as the viewers wait to see who Aaliya ends up with.

The last face-off between Asfar and Salman gave us goosebumps, our heart torn between the two, as we waited for Aaliya to make her choice. The climax unfolded as the viewers witnessed an emotionally charged scene where Aaliya bids farewell to Asfar and decides to accept Salman’s proposal.

The brilliantly crafted dialogues and heartfelt performances, this drama’s climax left an indelible mark on the hearts of its viewers, one that will be remembered for years.

Baby Baji:

The recent ending and the climax of the popular drama, Baby Baji left audiences in tears. This was one of those projects which the audience hoped to continue to air on television.

Baby Baji is a drama that resonates with masses and is close to reality, perhaps due to which it deems fit that the drama concluded with an ending that is more near to reality.

While the entire last episode did not have an adrenaline-pumping climax per say, as each character asked for redemption and realized their mistakes, the ultimate showdown was when Baby Baji passes away, leaving the characters and the audience in tears. As the drama ended on a sorrowful note, it reminded the viewers that life does not give second chances and at times does not allow you to seek redemption for your wrongdoings.

Mujhe Pyaar Hua Tha:

The last episode of Mujhe Pyaar Hua Tha opened with a banger and a plot twist as Maheer double-cross Abeer to bail Saad from jail. Following this, the fans eventually see Maheer and Saad reunite and Maheer accepts Saad as her husband.

The rest of the episode lacked a thrilling climax that would make the last episode engaging. It lacked any jaw-dropping or shock value moments that would uplift the episode.  Instead, what the audience got from the last episode was Areeb’s journey to redemption, his sulkiness, and suffering.

The only saving grace was the last few minutes of the episode where the viewers saw some awe-worthy moments of their favourite couple, as they sat together relishing their time together with each other. The cute banter followed by the declaration of his love by Saad had the audience thrilled.  

Bakhtawar:

Bakhtawar was a compelling and unique story, deserving a strong climax, and that is precisely what it got.

While there were no intense face-offs and melodramatic moments, Bakhtawar stood its ground to deliver its own climax at its own pace. The drama concluded on a high note, breaking stereotypes, and empowering its audience.

The climax showcased Bakhtawar’s journey of self-discovery, defying societal norms and prevailing against all odds. We see Bakhtawar receiving all the applause and recognition she deserves for all the adversary she has gone through and eventually becomes a well-known society figure. The last scene where she visits her village as a confidant woman striving to bring a change won our hearts. This uplifting and thought-provoking climax and conclusion deserves appreciation for its progressive narrative.

Lastly, Bakhtawar and Ahad’s cute interaction and Ahad’s never-ending support for Bakhtawar won our hearts.

Fairy Tale:

For a romantic-comedy drama, Fairy Tale did a job well done to keep the audience engaged and intact the element of suspense till the last episode.

The drama’s last episode had the audience guessing as we see a determined Umeed determined trying her luck to win at the game show, infuriating both her father and Farjad. The viewers are left hooked to see whether Umeed will win or not, if so, will Farjad and her father forgive her?

 With so many questions, the plot keeps us engaged and eventually climax was worth the watch as Umeed wins but refuses to keep the prizes, winning the heart of both Farjad and her father.

The conclusion that followed left the audience in awe as Farjad and Umeed declared their love for each other and the drama wrapped in a dreamy setting.

Pyari Mona:

For most Pyari Mona fans, the last episode was underwhelming and lacked a proper climax. Most of the audience felt that the story was dragged in between, after a strong start, and ended with a hasty conclusion.

Pyari Mona was a flagbearer of a strong social message about body shaming and society’s beauty standards. However, this message was lost in the last episode.

In addition, while we expected a strong face-off between Babar and Mona and their decision to stay married or get a divorce, we only got to see their interaction in the last scene of the drama. We wished to see Mona taking a stand for herself and telling Babar where he was wrong, instead it was Babar’s attempt to convince Mona to stay married to him.

The drama ended with an open ending and a cliffhanger as the viewers do not know whether Mona stays with Babar or not.

From Kuch Ankahi’s awe-inspiring conclusion, filled with suspense and heartfelt emotions, to Baby Baji’s realistic and tearful ending, each drama brought something unique to the table. It is indeed the thrilling climax of a story followed by a logical conclusion that makes a drama remembered for years to come.

Which story according to you had the best climax? Do share with us.

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