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Director Shahzad Rafique Gears Up for Untold Rendition of Heer Ranjha

Heer Ranjha Cover

First penned in 1766, Heer Ranjha is a timeless fable that has become a massive part of our folk history. The poem has had multiple iterations, some taking away the gruesome nature of the story itself.

Heer and Ranjha offer a desi Romeo Juliet, the two ancient lovers have become symbols of love, second only to the cupid itself. Such is the popularity of the story that it has been covered by many poets, directors, musicians, and actors before. However, director Shahzad Rafique wants to bring the true details of the story to life with his own, unique iteration of Heer and Ranjha’s love.

What Sets This Version of Heer Ranjha Apart?

Director Shahzad Rafique depicts Heer’s story through the lens of rebellion and empowerment. In a time long ago, a young, brave woman stood up in rebellion and challenged norms set by the patriarchal society back then.

In the words of director Shahzad Rafique, “Heer Ranjha is one of the most discussed and narrated folk tales that represent Punjab. Although the story is captured for the silver screen abundant times in both the sides of Punjab however a few angles were never considered to be focused.”

The first angle is the honor killing of the main female character by her own uncle. This angle is shown however the brutality of the act never depicted on serious grounds. Then no one has ever thought that in a very rigid social setup where women do not have much voice a young girl rebelled against the norms. This is a very interesting angle that will be explored, presenting it in front of the modern philosophy of woman empowerment.

Shahzad Rafique Brings His Years of Experience to Heer Ranjha

Shahzad Rafique is a veteran film director and will be using all his experience to make Heer Ranjha an even bigger classic than it is. Shahzad Rafique has previously directed Salakhain, Mohabbataan Sachiyaan, and Nikah among other big hits. His eye for talent has also seen him give debut roles to talents including Ahsan Khan and Ahmed Butt. We’re yet to see who he will cast for this film, but can’t contain our excitement over the unique direction skills and talent he will add to the story.

Shahzad Rafique’s version of Heer Ranjha will be for the modern audience. It will focus on the rebellious Heer and the brutal aspects of the story that many versions have otherwise hidden from viewers. The film will be released in association with Film Bank Corporation GmbH and Khalil Rana Sahab.

The tale as old as time is now being refined and Shahzad Rafique will weave his magic through a modern rendition of this classic. Details regarding the casting and release of the movie are not yet out, and we at Galaxy Lollywood will keep you updated.

Are Humayun Saeed and Sajal Aly Starring Together in Main Manto Nahi Hoon?

Main Manto Nahi Hoon Cast

Khalil ur Rehman is a highly acclaimed and controversial name. The screenwriter has his way with success and has produced multiple hit scripts during his time in the industry. So, when he appeared on Mazaak Raat recently and revealed the leading stars for his upcoming serial Main Manto Nahi Hoon, it piqued our interest.

The Meray Paas Tum Ho writer revealed that Humayun Seed and Sajal Aly will be starring in his latest serial Main Manto Nahi Hoon. Now it is to note that Qamar is known to name-drop a considerable amount in the past and get in trouble for it. He has also announced the involvement of other names for this exact same project in the past.

So, let’s discuss this timeline and see if Humayun and Sajal really are starring in this.

Sajal Aly, Mehwish Hayat and Maya Ali Have All Been Linked to Main Manto Nahi Hoon

As mentioned above, Qamar did name other actors for these roles in the past. While Humayun’s involvement was always confirmed, it was Mehwish Hayat and Maya Ali that were meant to star alongside him. These names were dropped during the height of the pandemic which may have also caused problems with them moving forward. The Khel Khel Mein star Sajal Aly is apparently starring as Saeed’s co-lead now. Sajal Aly is most likely to appear in the lead role, but it hasn’t been confirmed yet.

Sajal has worked with director Nadeem Baig in the past on Sinf-e-Aahan but this will be her first collaboration with Humayun Saeed and Khalil ur Rehman Qamar.

Now it is normal for contract negotiations to go sour or for the project to not materialize for a couple of reasons. One of them might be Qamar’s attitude and temper tantrums when an actor rejects an offer to work with him. The same might occur with Sajal as well. Our sources have also yet to confirm this news.

A Marketing Ploy for Main Manto Nahi Hoon?

One other reason that may justify the flurry of names a little is marketing. Humayun and his team of creatives are quite savvy while teasing their projects both on the big and small screen. Just a few years ago, Saeed generated hype going into the Meray Paas Tum Ho finale that three alternate endings were filmed for the show.

This did end up seeming to be a lie but Humayun succeeded and all his efforts paid off in the form of ratings. Here is a detailed timeline of all the marketing ploys done for Meray Paas Tum Ho in particular. Nonetheless, it is up to the fans to decide if they are okay with being misled by producers or not.

KRQ’s Name-Dropping Habit

Now coming back to Qamar’s habit of name-dropping, it definitely has got him in a lot of trouble. One of them as mentioned above was when Urwa Hocaine decided not to star in Khalil’s colossal failure feature film Kaaf Kangana.

His feud with superstar Mahira Khan is also infamous. He revealed that he punished the Sadqay Tumhare star by not giving her lead roles in Meray Paas Tum Ho and London Nahi Jaunga. These too seem to not have much truth to them and may just be further ploys to generate headlines. Afterall, the multi-hyphenate himself is the biggest star in all his projects.

Conclusion

All controversies and misleading news aside, one thing is for sure – Khalil and his frequent collaborators, Humayun Saeed and Nadeem Baig, always deliver. His dialogues and storytelling are still unparalleled and we are excited to see whoever ends up joining the cast for Main Manto Nahi Hoon.

Mawra Hocane Talks Neem and Nauroz in Her Return to the Screen

Mawra in Neem and Nauroz
Mawra in Neem and Nauroz

Mawra Hocane is a prominent name in the Pakistan television industry and has garnered the love of her audience for her immaculate acting skills, unique choice of scripts and roles that have substance, alongside her ever-charming personality.

The actress is a powerhouse of talent. She has a long trajectory of work that speaks for itself. Mawra has not only worked on television but has also proven her mantle via theater and cinema as well.

She performed as a theater artist and later worked as a VJ at ARY Musik. She made her television debut in 2011 and her notable dramas include Aangan, Sabaat, Sammi, and Daasi. Mawra has also worked in Bollywood film Sanam Teri Kasam and made her film debut in Pakistan with romantic comedy film Jawani Phir Nahi Ani 2.

After nearly a two-year hiatus, following the drama serial Qissa Meherbano Ka, the actress will be seen in two television dramas this year, namely Neem on HUM TV and Nauroz on Green Entertainment.

In an exclusive interview, the actress talked about her almost two-year work hiatus, her role in dramas Nauroz and Neem, and her experience of working with her co-star Ameer Gilani.

Reason Behind Mawra’s Two Year Hiatus:

The actress explained that she was constantly working post Qissa Meherbano Ka, but when her co-star Ameer Gilani left for Harvard, they had to stop preparing for Neem and started shooting her other drama Nauroz.

Both projects required a lot of homework and in-depth prep as a team, so I honestly didn’t feel the hiatus longer than 6 months.” Mawra explained.

What Inspires Mawra Hocane To Choose Her Scripts?

The actress has always chosen her scripts wisely, that highlight a social message, case in point Sabaat and Qissa Mehrbano Ka. Even her two upcoming projects seem promising. When asked about how she chooses her scripts, she replied:

Honestly I just want to do work that excites me every morning and makes me nervous before each scene and each shot.”

The actress admitted that she wants to make responsible choices as much as she can, and it is a conscious decision to put away scripts that don’t align with her thought process-no matter the size of the project.

I have been lucky that such meaningful scripts come my way so I can pick them. InshaAllah I hope that it continues to happen.”

Mawra Hocane on Nauroz and Neem:

She further went on to talk about the scripts of her two new projects:

I wake up every morning with a grateful heart for these beautiful quality scripts that came my way Alhumdulillah. I was reading Neem a little after we finished Sabaat and I knew after an episode or two that I have to do this no matter the timelines.” Mawra explained.

Drawing a contrast, Mawra said:

Both projects are unique in their own way, while Nauroz threw me right out of my comfort zone, Shahzad Kashmiri’s guidance helped me to grow as an actor and as a person, Neem talks about important facets of life while having a well-knit engaging story.”

Mawra’s experience with drama serial Nauroz and Green Entertainment:

When asked about her character in Nauroz, the actor didn’t reveal much, asking her audience to wait for her first look but she added that her character in the drama, Reshtina is a ‘special one’ for her not only because of how its written and shot but also for the experience that shooting the drama and playing that character brought for her.

It was a very special experience for me personally and I hope audience feels the same after watching it.” She further added.

Mawra admitted that Reshtina’s bravery and Courage has been very inspiring for her.

The character of Reshtina is just what I needed at this point of my career. It allowed me to unlearn and reinvent myself and hopefully that shall translate on screen too.”

Mawra also talked about her experience working with the new channel, Green Entertainment. She praised their effort to make something different than we already see on screens. She further added that the directors have more creative liberty than ever which makes the journey more exciting and enriching for the entire team.

It’s never been so much about content than the numbers. As an artist it’s very satisfying to see quality content being given so much importance over ratings and other goals.” Mawa admitted.

Her take on HUM TV’s Neem:

The actress disclosed that Neem’s shooting is still underway so she gets extremely nervous when asked about it but she hopes the audience is able to find that human connection and relatability with Neem.

Putting her thoughts into words about her upcoming project, she described:

Zimal Riyasat is so many things that it’s hard for me to put it to words. All I can say is Neem as a story has so many facets. It’s not black or white, all characters are beautifully flawed and human just how we are in real life.”

Mawra shared her favourite quality of her character Zimal in the drama:

One key trait that I love about Zimal is her kind heart and compassion which has been extremely inspiring for me.”

With the teasers of Neem already released, it is safe to say that the actress has hooked us with Neem and her character.

Mawra Hocane on Ameer Gilani

Ameer Gilani made his drama debut with Sabaat, in which he was paired with Mawra Hocane on-screen. The couple were an instant hit with fans and soon became a favourite of all Sabaat fans. Now, the pair is going to be seen together once again in their new drama Neem.

When asked about her experience working with Ameer on Neem she said:

We waited so long for Ameer to come back and finally start Neem and now it seems it was absolutely worth the wait.”

The actress was all praises for her co-star:

Working with him is very exciting because unknowingly he keeps his co-actors on their toes, his passion for his job as a newcomer is very inspiring. It’s my second serial with him and his dedication and ability to work hard has only exponentially increased, he does have an air of mystery about him because you barely hear him speak a few words on set but during the scenes his energy is infectious.”

The actress has us excited for her upcoming dramas and we wish her luck for her future endeavors, hoping we continue to see her on-screen.

Who Should Shayan be With in Ehraam e Junoon? Shanzay or Sajeela?

Ehraam e Junoon couple and cast

Ehraam e Junoon is off to a roaring start! The drama has us hooked with its vivid storytelling, narratives from different economic backgrounds, and insights into the weird emotion we call love. The drama’s success has, however, led us to a new confusion of sorts.

Who should Imran Abbas’s character Shayan be with? The drama shows two different people in Shanzay and Sajeela. Shanzay is bold, outgoing, and stubborn in all the right ways. Sajeela is, however, a bit uptight, she holds herself back, and is a tad bit materialistic. Stay with us as we see who should Shayan end up with.

Shayan and Shanzay in Ehraam e Junoon

Shayan and Shanzay look like a match made in heaven. We’re totally rooting for the couple, and like how Shanzay givers her all in love. She is stubborn, she wants what she desires, and Neelam Muneer is doing a pretty good job in playing her character.

The couple didn’t seem to have hit the ground running in the initial few episodes, but they’re quietly settling into the emotion. Shanzay wants Shayan for who he is. She admires his hard work, and some of the interactions involving her have been sweet and adorable. The hug with Shayan’s mother still makes us go aww.

Shayan and Sajeela

Sajeela is more uptight and reserved. She doesn’t show her affection for Shayan and keeps to herself. Shayan, however, is drawn more towards Sajeela. He is seen chasing her, and as men would agree, we like what we can’t have.

Sajeela is more materialistic. Naturally, she doesn’t come from a rich background, and wants to secure her future. Right now, Shayan isn’t really the shining knight in golden armor to save our damsel in distress from the economic trials and tribulations, which is why she isn’t going after him. While Sajeela is materialistic, we understand where that comes from.

While Nimra Khan looks elegant as Sajeela, we can’t stop ourselves from fantasizing over Shayan and Shanzay. Neelam Muneer and Imran Abbas make Ehraam e Junoon the classical tale of love that it is, and we are completely rooting for them. Let us know if you agree with us.

Ushna Shah Turns up the Comedy Quotient in Engaging Episode of Hasna Mana Hai

Ushna Shah in Hasna Mana Hai

Ushna Shah, whom we last saw in ARY Digital’s Habs as Ayesha, is known for her witty replies and spontaneity to keep the audience engaged. Recently, the actress sat down for an interview with Tabish Hashmi and had a fun conversation with the lively host and a cheerful audience.

The actress played couple of games, interacted with the audience, and talked about her marriage to professional golfer Hamza Amin, with whom she got married in February, acting, hit drama serial Tere Bin and much more.

Here is what the actress had to say:

Her First Experience on a Set

Ushna took a trip down the memory lane and recalled her first acting project, which didn’t air. She remembered that a family friend was directing that drama and she signed that project on Facebook, saying that she wanted to be the lead. After coming to Pakistan, from Canada for that project, the actress had to travel to a village near Pakpattan. To her surprise, there was no vanity, and the area had very limited facilities that made it a unique experience for her.

Ushna’s Love for Animals

When a fan asked Ushna about her love for animals, the actress stressed upon the fact that animals are a gift, who are very innocent that give us a lot of love, and that it is our responsibility to protect and care for them.

Ushna Shah’s Qualities to Become an Actor

In another fun interaction with a fan, Ushna was asked about the qualities that an actor should have. She established that one needs to be very patient and have a thick skin because rejection is part of the job. She further added that one should be ready to face failures and handle media scrutiny well, without taking it to heart.

Fan Confesses Love for Tere Bin

Ushna narrated a candid incident when a porter, at an airport, reached out to her and said that he is really enjoying watching the drama serial Tere Bin. The actress said that she is not in the drama though, to which he replied that he knows that, but he is sharing it with her nevertheless.

Ushna’s interaction with Suhail Warraich at an Award show

Ushna Shah mentioned a short and hilarious interaction with journalist Suhail Warraich, who interviewed her at an award show. The actress was wearing a mermaid style gown, about which the journalist inquired about. As they continued their interview, they realized that the mic was not turned on, highlighting the technical problems that unfold at such events.

Ushna’s Marriage

The actress talked about her marriage to the professional golfer Hamza Amin, who lives in Austria. She addressed all the negative comments that she received on her wedding outfit, saying that the traditional red colour, which she chose for her wedding, does represent our culture. The actress said that although a number of brides choose a similar wedding look, she came under public scrutiny, but eventually she got over it.

Being in the limelight can be an intimidating experience. And, Ushna Shah gets to witness it all with online trolls, challenging work experiences, and a lot more. To see that she is pulling through it all with a smile on her face is endearing and pleasant. We wish her all the best for future endeavours and cannot wait to see more of her on screen.

Current Pakistani Dramas That Are More Than Just Saas Bahu Stories

Pakistani dramas offer more than just saas-bahu stories. There, we said it. Gone are the days when 9 out of 10 prime time dramas would focus on saas-bahu shenanigans and hook the audience through this never-ending game of cat and mouse. Don’t believe us yet? Well, we have got a list of current Pakistani dramas that are more than just saas-bahu stories.

It is a fact that our drama industry is progressing. We’re seeing interesting stories, college romances, and inspiring family tales that were previously the outsiders, not the norms. Now, we see parents supporting daughters in Kuch Ankahi, young people falling in love in Muhabbat Gumshuda Meri, and a timeless romantic in Jhoom; all making this a good time to be alive as a Pakistani drama enthusiast.

Stick with us as we look at some of the best current Pakistani dramas without the needless Tarka of saas-bahu stories in them.

Jhoom

Jhoom may seem all too common to our audiences; a fiery, young male lead, a calm, and composed female lead – where have we seen this before? In a dozen other Pakistani dramas. Duh!

But there is something refreshingly different about this pairing; the casting. Haroon Kadwani lives up to the hype; he is not a 40-year-old playing the typecast young rebel. Haroon looks his age, he is perfect in Jhoom, and the budding romance with Zara Noor Abbas, without the heavily broadcasted family drama, is refreshing to watch. 

Kuch Ankahi

Kuch Ankahi is changing narratives one step at a time, and we’re loving it. While the lead trio of Sajal Aly, Sheheryar Munawar and Bilal Abbas Khan look as graceful as ever, we’re roped in by the brilliant discussions, the trust shown by parents, and the passionate yet clever female lead.

Kuch Ankahi has our vote of approval. Maybe, and it’s a strong maybe, Kuch Ankahi may not be a huge hit with the audience, but we’re sure a decade ago, the story wouldn’t even make it to the discussion room. And that is exactly what we call progress.

Ehraam e Junoon

When we heard Neelam Muneer and Imran Abbas starring together in Geo TV’s Ehraam e Junoon, we expected fire. And fire is what we got. The drama looks at love as an emotion that beats among all of us, despite our upbringing, economic status, and other factors. Neelam Muneer is ravishing, and we could watch the drama for her alone. It’s a plus that the story has us hooked as well.

Yunhi

Yunhi, as the name suggests, is a breezy romantic. It gives you a bit of intellect, some bits of love, important lessons on the repercussions of letting go of your culture, and a refreshing story that you may not have seen before. Maya Ali, as Kim, is empowering and stubborn in the right sense. We like her, and from where we see it, so do others.

Muhabbat Gumshuda Meri

You’ve got to hand it to Hum TV here. Just when they lead you into believing the muhabbat will be gumshuda in this one, you see it is all about young, sweet love. Here we are taken into the world of Khushhal Khan and Dananeer Mobeen as Saim and Zobia.

The leading pair look ravishing together, and our drama audience is rooting for them. We’ve got to appreciate the casting in this one.

Pyari Mona

Pyari Mona takes our audience through the qualms and problems of overweight women in our society. From relationship issues to tolerating constant taunts and torments, Sanam Jung is a diva as Mona. The drama addresses a very important social problem and shows Mona navigating the challenges of life with her weight. Mona’s father is shown to be a supporting figure, and we are all for the father-daughter duo.

To add to this, we believe other prime time dramas such as Mujhe Pyaar Hua Tha and Tere Bin are also doing without dominating saas’s and conniving bahus. These are good signs for our industry, and the growing diversity in stories will definitely fare well.

Abu Aleeha Opens Up on Upcoming Movies Taxali and Kukri

Abu Aleeha has become a massive part of Pakistan’s movie scene with multiple releases in a year’s time. Abu Aleeha’s “Kukri” and “Taxali” are next in the line of upcoming films but the director is also set to work on “Mango Jutt” – a Punjabi comedy film.

In an exclusive conversation the writer-cum-director gave audiences an insight to his next project. “Two Punjabi films has been offered to me since Super Punjabi and I’m already making “Mango Jutt” right after the Bari Eid” the director said, sharing details about the shooting locations.

Mango Jutt will be shot in Baku and Doha

Talking about Mango Jutt, the director said it would be shot in Doha and Baku. Regarding the cast, Abu Aleeha stated: “It’s too early to confirm, but we have sent the script to two big names and A-list actors in our showbiz industry, one of whom is an actor/comedian the other has done comedy roles in dramas“.

We are going for shoot right after the Bari Eid” – he confirmed.

Abu Aleeha is also excited about his upcoming film “Kukri” – previously named Javed Iqbal, which got banned right after its premiere in Karachi, last year. The film is coming to our cinema screens after getting a go-ahead from the censor board with a new title KUKRI – which is expected to be released on June 2 worldwide.

A film on Taxali Gate

The director went on talking about “Taxali Gate”, which is going to be released on Eid ul Adha, and said: “Taxali is a beautiful dark comedy filled with sheer humour that makes you think differently but deeply.”

Regarding the budget and location, Abu Aleeha stated, “It is my most expensive film to date, in terms of cinematic values, it meets all the requirements.”

 “We have shot the film on original locations, we actually got a permission from a brothel house to shoot some scenes there, I always seek original locations.

Furthermore, Aleeha hinted about the film’s plot by saying: “Heera Mandi and Taxali Gate are two different names for the same location; the metaphor is that you are able to reach Heera Mandi by passing through Taxali Gate; it’s one of the 12 doors of Androon e Lahore that leads to Heera Mandi, which is why we named it Taxali Gate.”

The tale centres on a murder that occurs at this location, and the investigation discovers startling occurrences linked to this murder. Taxali Gate differs from Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s “Heera Mandi” in that they chose history, but we chose a dark comedy.

Kukri and Taxali Will Engage Viewers

I am expecting that Kukri and Taxali will engage cinemagoers, so independent film makers wouldn’t hesitate to invest in Pakistani cinema, he said on an ending note.

The films are unique in there genre especially Kukri has already impressed the audience by its theme, hope the cinema goers will enjoy them both! – Good luck to the team!

Heartwarming Conversations in Kuch Ankahi Strike a Chord with Viewers

Kuch Ankahi Cast

ARY Digital’s Kuch Ankahi rose to prominence for its star-studded and ensemble cast, apt direction, and its stimulating and refreshing storyline. The latest episode of the drama once again won viewers’ hearts for its subtle messaging with an engaging plot.

Last week’s episode was filled with notable conversations between the characters, leaving the audience with food for thought.

Agha Jaan and Aaliya

The father-daughter duo has been setting goals since the first episode and is not slowing down. Agha Jaan is the epitome of a father figure we need to see in our dramas.

It made our hearts melt with how Agha Jaan unhurriedly heard the explanation of his daughter and composedly explained to her the consequences of such actions, although he was evidently displeased with her coming home late. This set a precedent for other parents who are in a similar situation.

Asfar and Aaliya

While we may not agree with Aaliya going to Asfar’s house unannounced for his birthday, we also can’t disagree with the brilliant execution of that scene and sub-par performances of both the actors.

Aaliya’s efforts to celebrate Asfar’s birthday and Asfar’s reaction are both justified in the scene. Their argument gave a message to the viewers that instead of holding on to the distressing and appalling memories that cause pain, it is better to forgive and move on and focus on the positive.

Sofia and Almas

The conversation between Sofia (Aaliya’s paternal aunt) and Almas (Salman’s mother) warmed our hearts, and we are grateful to the makers for including this narrative. Often, in our society, divorced or widowed women are left in the shackles of the mercy of society and are expected to live a secluded life, deprived of second chances and the desire for a partnership.

However, the shifting of the discussion in the drama towards second chances and the rights of women to marry again is presented adroitly. Almas’s encouragement to Sofia to give life a second chance and seek a partner who will be there for her left us nodding along.

Agha Jaan and Shammoo Begum

The conversations between Agha Jaan and Shammoo Begum (Aaliya’s parents) always remind us of the pure love of two parents with different mindsets in raising their children.

The on-screen pair essayed it aptly well on-screen. Agha Jaan once again became a favourite when he sided with his daughter and supported her when it came to her job. Although Shammoo Begum might have opted for being the bad cop, her care for her daughters doesn’t go unnoticed by the viewers.

Kuch Ankahi has once again been able to establish a narrative of trust and empowerment. We recommend our viewers to give it a watch for the empowering content and fresh narrative.

Our 5 Best On-Screen Couples from Current Pakistani Dramas

With an influx of new dramas that are airing on television alongside ongoing stories that continue to entertain, the audience has a large pool from which they can pick their favourites. Needless to say, the lead couple plays a huge role in determining the success of the drama.

While at times it is the chemistry between the actors that hooks the audience, at other instances it is the characters that the actors are playing. However, some on-screen couples continue to impress their audience for all these reasons.

Here are our five best on-screen couples from current Pakistani dramas that the audience is doting on in 2023.

Sajal Aly and Bilal Abbas in Kuch Ankahi

Sajal Aly and Bilal Abbas have always been able to win the hearts of their audience with their effortless acting and great on-screen chemistry. Before working together in Nadeem Baig’s Kuch Ankahi, the pair had previously come together for drama serial O Rangreza and feature film Khel Khel Mein.

Salman (played by Bilal Abbas) is an only child who has been raised by his single mother while Aliya (played by Sajal Aly) is the middle child in a household of three daughters. Aliya and Salman both work as real esta,te agents, which leads to them becoming professional rivals. Eventually, they start living under one roof when Salman moves into Aliya’s house as a paying guest.

Sajal and Bilal play their roles convincingly, highlighting the internal struggles that both characters face due to the problems in their lives, which create obstacles in their love story.  The banter, the plausible laugh-worthy moments, and their chemistry is aptly essayed on screen.

Zara Noor Abbas and Haroon Kadwani in Jhoom

The story of Maryam (Zara Noor Abbas) and Aryaan (Haroon Kadwani) is one that will teleport you to a realm of fantasy. The narrative follows the lives of the calm and composed Mariam who is doctor by profession and the short-tempered but loyal hero of the story Aryaan.

Both the actors create a mesmerizing chemistry on-screen depicting the loneliness and the hidden pain in their lives. The story makes you sympathize with Mariam and Aryaan as obstacles await them due to hidden secrets and their age difference.

Wahaj Ali and Yumna Zaidi in Tere Bin

This one is a no brainer and needless to say the list is incomplete without these two. Wahaj Ali as Murtasim and Yumna Zaidi as Meerub are two characters that have enticed the entire nation due to their palpable chemistry.

The narrative is based on enemy to lovers’ story, a desi version of trashy romance, and a depiction of a power play where a feudal lord falls in love with his wife. The plot unfolds with a new obstacle for the couple after every episode or two, yet Wahaj and Yumna are able to create magic on screen every time they come together, giving the audience some unforgettable moments.

Wahaj and Yumna have created two memorable characters in this drama which will be remembered for years to come. Yumna’s ‘I do not care attitude’ and stubborn nature with Wahaj’s charismatic charm and loyal nature have made them the ‘It’ couple of Pakistani dramas.

Khushhal Khan and Dananeer Mobeen in Muhabbat Gumshuda Meri

Khushhal Khan as Saim and Dananeer Mobeen as Zubia are presenting goals for young couples in MGM. While the plot for MGM may not be unique, the story is refreshing to watch as it captures the struggles of real-life young couples and the mistakes they make due to their limited exposure and hindsight.

The audience is adoring the moments between the on-screen pair as they navigate through mixed feelings, doubts, and simultaneously try to figure out on the path of self-discovery what they want from life and each other.

Bilal Ashraf and Maya Ali in Yunhi

The romantic love story of Dawood and Kaneez Fatima aka Kim, as Bilal Ashraf and Maya Ali respectively, is one that makes your heart swoon and makes you want to watch more.

The drama follows the story of two-polar opposites who have been raised in different cultures and societies, but fate brings them together when they get married. The light-hearted love story unfolds as the couple falls in love and decides to put aside their differences and see the world through each other’s lens.

Maya Ali and Bilal Ashraf are effortlessly able to teleport the audience into their world and the story is a refreshing addition to the currently airing dramas.

This brings us to the end of our list. Which couple is your favourite? Do share with us.

Hum TV’s Neem Explores Romance and Societal Issues

Neem Drama Teasers

The team behind hit drama serial Sabaat and Momina Duraid Production are all set to air new drama serial Neem on HUM TV this year. Neem highlights the issue of lack of education in the country with a compelling love story. Coupled with a series of dark twists and turns, a set of established grey characters, and a serene backdrop Neem is bound to catch the audience’s attention.

Teaser Reveal for Neem

The first teaser of Neem is fast-paced and well-edited that aptly hooks the viewer till the last second. It introduces us to Syed Jibran’s character who is a shrewd and an influential man. The teaser begins with the dialogue said by Syed Jibran addressing his father, “Loog apni aulad ka mustaqbil mehfooz karte hain aur aap meri bani banai saltanat barbaad kar rahi hain.” (People secure their children’s future and you are wrecking my well-established territory) and later we see him pushing his father off the cliff, setting the tone for the entire teaser.

Mawra Hocane’s Return to Television

In addition, we also see Mawra Hocane in the drama, whom we last saw in Qissa Meherbano Ka. The actress is essaying the role of a courteous and kind woman who teaches children. The look of her character in the drama resonates with her character Anaya in Sabaat, making us wonder if this character will also advocate for social justice.

We also see Arsalan Naseer in the teasers, who rose to popularity after his Ramzan debut drama Chupke Chupke. From the teasers we are assuming that his character is interested in Mawra’s, however how the plot unveils remains to be seen.

Team Sabaat Together Again

The drama will also mark the return of the beloved duo of Ameer Gilani and Mawra Hocane who we last saw in HUM TV’s drama serial Sabaat. The actor will be playing the role of a man who migrates to America for work and is portrayed as one who seems dejected and heartbroken. The character in the teasers says, “mein khwab le kar nehi aya hoon, khwab tootay hain tu aya hoon” [I didn’t come because I have dreams, I came because my dreams have been shattered], making us wonder what caused that heartbreak.

Ameer and Mawra are seen together in the teasers, where in one shot Ameer’s character is giving a ring to Mawra’s character and both seem happy. But will fate cause them to drift apart?

Neem is Set in Kashmir

Neem is set in a dreamy backdrop of Kashmir. While Neem will focus on romance, it will also highlight the issue of non-availability of education in the country which is socially relevant issue and strikes a chord with every Pakistani. Further details about the plot are still under wraps.  

Neem is penned by Kashif Anwar and produced by Momina Duraid. The drama is helmed by Parizaad director Shahzad Kashmiri. The ensemble cast of the drama features Syed Jibran, Mawra Hocane, Arsalan Naseer, Ameer Gilani, Rahil Siddiqui, Hassan Shah, Hani Taha, Maryam Nafees, Shamyl Khan, Adeel Khan, Ismat Zaidi, Alamdar Khan, Areeba Tirmizi, Tahira Shahzad, Yousuf Bashir Qureshi and others.

The official date of release is still undisclosed. We at Galaxy Lollywood will keep viewers updated with the latest news on Neem’s release.