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8 Dream Pairs We’d Love To See Together In Dramas This Year

By
Ifrah Butt
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The sky is the limit when it comes to the possibilities of dream pairs we would all love to see together. However, it rarely happens when directors and producers experiment with casting their lead actors, usually sticking to safe, tried and tested combinations. But if that keeps going on, the audience will certainly get bored.

To remedy this, we have hand-picked a few of our dream pairs, predicting who would look good together.

1. Feroze Khan and Kubra Khan

Both Kubra Khan and Feroze Khan have proven their mettle with various powerhouse performances, albeit individually. Over the years, Feroze Khan has given a number of intense performances including the likes of ‘Khaani‘ and ‘Khuda Aur Mohabbat‘ whereas Kubra has the commendable role of Husn E Jahan from ‘Alif‘ to her credit. If they were to be cast together, we would really like to see that intensity they possess which will definitely set the screen on fire.

2. Ahad Raza Mir and Iqra Aziz

Again, Ahad and Iqra are both great performers, but Iqra Aziz seems to take the lead when it comes to expressions, whereas Ahad Raza Mir has that charisma that holds his audience in a trance. If a project was to cast the two of them together, we would love to see them in a light-hearted romantic comedy. We’re sure Iqra and Ahad will definitely make one gorgeous onscreen pair, captivating their audience with their easy chemistry.

3. Imran Ashraf and Sajal Aly

Despite starring in Gul e Rana, we never got to see these two paired opposite each other. Imran Ashraf and Sajal Aly can both sizzle the screen with merely their expressions. Together, these two are sure to create a drama which will not only give audiences a fresh pairing, but also a couple to ship for many dramas to come. Just imagine: Imran Ashraf’s intense performances mixed with Sajal Aly’s moving expressions and dialogue delivery – sheer brilliance. Throw in a strong script, and we’ll have something that is absolutely out of this world. Preferably we’d like to see them in a romantic story, which pans out with tragedy, and intense drama.

4. Bilal Abbas Khan and Hania Aamir

Hania Aamir is a gorgeous beauty but her acting prowess, she has yet to prove fully. She is either cast as a damsel in distress or the girl next door. On the other hand, Bilal Abbas Khan has his audience hooked right from the word go, owing to the intensity he can bring on screen with his acting and expressions. Therefore we’d like Hania to match Bilal, step for step, and act in a drama with a strong storyline and some powerful performances – a strong drama that is built around a social narrative.

5. Sheheryar Munawar and Syra Yousuf

We’ve seen them together in a photoshoot and we even got glimpses in Project Ghazi. And yes, we see them star in Sinf-e-Aahan. But it’s not enough! The gorgeous Syra Yousuf and Sheheryar Munawar must star together in a television drama, and we’d want to see a love story. This is one of those dream pairs that we can’t believe hasn’t happened already!

6. Fahad Mustafa and Saba Qamar

Though these two have worked together in the past, this is such a strong pairing that we had to make an exception. We look forward to seeing the uber talented Saba Qamar star opposite Fahad Mustafa, where we can experience their character growth and range as actors. A strong storyline and an experienced director would be just the right elements for a drama that could be the next big thing.

7. Faysal Qureshi and Hadiqa Kiani

Ever since her first drama as an actress, singer Hadiqa Kiani has wowed the audience with her professionalism and range. Currently, we’re loving Hadiqa as Mehru in ‘Dobara‘ and would love to see her star opposite the very talented Faysal Qureshi in a performance oriented drama.

8. Farhan Saeed and Yumna Zaidi

Farhan Saeed is currently winning hearts with ‘Badshah Begum‘ and ‘Mere Humsafar‘ on ARY Digital while Yumna Zaidi’s Azka in ‘Ishq E La’ is offering her audience a very intense experience, alongside her brilliant characterization in Sinf e Aahan. If directors were to cast these two together, we’d want it to be something like a dark comedy. Yumna Zaidi was commendable in ‘Pyaar Ke Sadqay’ which was a dark comedy too and Farhan Saeed is yet to be offered such a script. Therefore, the two of them together would be excellent in such a drama.

What do you think of our dream pairs? Which one do you like best? Let us know in the comments below.

Omer Shahzad Reveals Offer Of Fawad Khan’s Role In Ae Dil Hai Mushkil

By
Sajeer Shaikh
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Omer Shahzad recently sat across Hassan Choudary for Something Haute’s Heart-To-Haute to share various details about his career, the opportunities he has come across, and his struggles. The model-turned-actor, who states right at the beginning of the interview that he always wanted to be an actor, delved deep, and it’s pretty insightful.

The Interview

During the conversation, Omer Shahzad opened up about numerous things, such as his love for singing, alongside acting. He talks about how he’s been singing since he was in school, and would perform at annual dinners. The actor, who has not shied away from owning his love of singing in the past, has been known to also state that he would have singer if he had not been a model.

Omer also revealed that during his early days, he was uncertain about his acting abilities, but was urged to pursue the same. He also highlights the fact that he does not have an industry background, nor did he have any friends in the field, perhaps making the journey that much harder. He goes onto share multiple other details, but it’s when he begins talking about a particular offer that, with complete certainty, piqued our interest.

The Casting

While discussing him venturing forth on the big screen with films such as Teri Meri Love Story, Omer Shahzad states that he will reveal information that he has not talked about thus far in any interview. He shared his disappointment with the technical execution of the film he was a part of, after which he stated that in the month of Ramadan, he received a call in the morning from a number that he did not recognize and of which he couldn’t place the location.

In a surprise reveal, he stated that the caller claimed to be Shaleen, from the highly coveted banner, Yash Raj Films, much to the astonishment of Hassan as well. Omer believed it to be a prank call at first, stating that he hadn’t worked as much at that point in time. However, Shaleen continued on to state that she wanted to set up his appointment with Shanoo Sharma, the casting director at Yash Raj Films, who has pushed forward talent like Ranveer Singh and Parineeti Chopra.

Omer gave a time for a Skype appointment, and was ready for the interview at the exact allotted time. Soon, he virtually sat across Shanoo Sharma who said that they’d seen his drama, which he believed was Adhoori Aurat that had played on Zee Entertainment Enterprises’ Zindagi. The casting director then told him that they’d looked him up online, after which they were unable to find any contact information. The source of this was Ali Zafar, who had not only asked designers for Omer Shahzad’s contact details, but had also put up a status regarding the same. He then checked his Instagram DMs, which made him realize that Yash Raj Films had messaged him there as well, to which Hassan Choudary rightfully asks, “Aap kahan thay Omer?!”

What Happened Next

After a twenty-five minute, thoroughly professional conversation, Shanoo stated that there was a Karan Johar movie in the works. And so, Omer Shahzad states that he was offered a role in the film, clarifying that it wasn’t Imran Abbas’ character. Instead, it was the role of Ali, that later went to ace actor Fawad Khan.

Shanoo allegedly explained the role to Omer, and even stated that the character would have many scenes with the heroine. Omer hilariously states that it’s a Karan Johar film, and the actress would have also been someone like Deepika Padukone, or a contemporary. Even five scenes would have sufficed.

Shanoo then apparently asked for Omer to audition by recording a scene that she could show to Karan Johar. However, the actor explains that he was to leave for Umrah (after his mother’s passing) for fifteen days. He sent a message to Shaleen stating that he was about to head out of the country and asked for a week’s extension, testing waters. Leaving things upto the Almighty, he texted the representative again, to which she responded, but stopped responding soon after. He gracefully states that he understood, given that it did not make sense to him that they would wait for him.

Further Details

However, he was contacted again almost a year-and-a-half later, asking for pictures and videos, which he then emailed. By then, though, the situation had started deteriorating. Contextually, political tensions between India and Pakistan had resurfaced by then in greater intensity.

Omer Shahzad then opens up about how people ask him if he would work in India, where he asks why he wouldn’t. He shares his grief regarding him having worked on himself all alone for Jawani Phir Nahi Ani 2, expecting offers after being a part of such a huge production. He goes on to question how a company in India saw his potential at a time where he had not worked as much, and airs his struggle to achieve discipline to commit to his art.

While it’s quite a revelation, Omer Shahzad does also raise pertinent points that must be pondered over internally. Perhaps, some form of reflection with regards to talent is needed. What is your take on this? Let us know in the comments.

Osman Khalid Butt Regrets Passing On Bilal Abbas Khan’s Mahir In Dobara

By
Sajeer Shaikh
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Ever wondered what your favorite show would be like without the star you’ve grown to love? Well, for Dobara fans who adore the powerhouse Bilal Abbas Khan as Mahir, the incredibly talented Osman Khalid Butt has shared some information that might help facilitate the process.

Context

The star of beloved shows such as Chupke Chupke and Ehd e Wafa is not one to look back and regret things that cannot be changed. However, Osman Khalid Butt surprisingly (and refreshingly) answered the very same question on Nida Yasir’s Good Morning Pakistan. While speaking to Nida Yasir, the star stated that he regrets passing on Danish Nawaz’s Dobara, to which he could not commit due to a multitude of reasons.

Why Couldn’t Osman Khalid Butt Commit To Dobara?

In the star’s exact words, he has stated the following:

“At the time, I was stuck in Karachi because of COVID, and I was also shifting. Chupke Chupke had also taken off. I had a lot of commitments and responsibilities in Islamabad that I had to fulfill, and the shoots were starting very soon after Chupke Chupke. So, unfortunately, I couldn’t do it.”

The actor shared that usually, he does not feel regret, since he’s able to peruse through a script and fathom its potential, seeing if it will or will not be powerful. Moreover, he shared that he also believes that one must be a character fit as well to portray the role with complete honesty.

However, it was Danish Nawaz’s project, that now stars Bilal Abbas Khan and Hadiqa Kiani that evoked a twinge of regret within the Diyar e Dil star.

“After watching five to ten episodes [of Dobara] and even after reading the script, I found it very interesting,” stated Osman Khalid Butt.

About Dobara

Danish Nawaz’s Hadiqa Kiani and Bilal Abbas Khan starrer has been penned by Sarwat Nazir and has been produced by Momina Duraid under MD Productions. The story itself comes as a welcome breath of fresh air, as it encompasses the journey of love between a younger man (Mahir) and an older widow (Mehrunissa) as they navigate their affection through society’s watchful eyes.

What do you think about Osman Khalid Butt’s revelation? Share your thoughts in the comments.

6 Things We’d Love To See In Suno Chanda Season 3

By
Ifrah Butt
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It came, we saw, and it conquered. There was absolutely no pre-release hype about the show, no over-the-top promotions or anything. Suno Chanda won hearts, totally on merit. The drama, right from its cast to its story, direction, production, and execution was just superb. A massive hit, Suno Chanda became one of the most viewed dramas, not only as HUM TV’s Ramzan special, but also in general.

The love the audience had for the Iqra Aziz, Farhan Saeed starrer, and its special characters, had the makers, the writer, the director, and the producers team up for season 2, which again proved to be another hit. It rarely happens that a sequel to a beloved show lives up to the expectations the audience has, but with Suno Chanda, not only were the expectations met, they were multiplied tenfold for season 3.

Ever since last year, writer, Saima Akram Chaudhry, has been bombarded with questions from the audience about renewing Suno Chanda for season 3, to which she somewhat agreed as well in a social media post, but had to pull back her decision owing to a lot of unfortunate and unforeseen circumstances.

Nevertheless, if there is a Suno Chanda season 3, shot, ever, we bring you a list of six things we’d love to see in it.

More Jiya-Arsal Banter

Suno Chanda will be incomplete or missing its essence if it doesn’t have a good dose of Ajiya and Arsal’s banter. Iqra Aziz’s Jiya and Farhan Saeed’s Arsal are the backbone of Suno Chanda and if it isn’t in the season – well, we’re not having it.

Baby Arsal Perhaps?

Now that Jiya and Arsal are happily married, maybe we could see Iqra Aziz making son Kabir Hussain debut on television as Jiya’s baby? Wouldn’t it be a sight to see such a cute mother-son duo on-screen? And with Shahana as his grandmother, we’d love to see how the story will progress if this plot thickens.

Arsal’s Ama

Of course, any season of Suno Chanda will not hit the right chords if it doesn’t have Nadia Afgan as Shahana Batool aka Arsal’s ama. Afgan’s character was not only the catchiest of the entire show, but the most naturally hilarious character we have ever seen on television.

Jiya’s Life In The UK

While Jiya and Arsal’s whole scenario was based on the narrative of her getting into the London School of Economics, we’d like to see how it pans out if a part of their life is shot in the UK as well. It has been quite some time that a good Pakistani drama has been shot abroad, and it would be fun to see how Jiya and Arsal navigate their life in London.

A Family Visit

How about this – the entire family gets to visit the couple for Jiya’s graduation. Picture it: Shahana, Naeema, Nazakat, Billo, Jamshed, Dadi, DJ – all in a plane together to the UK. A hilarious flight and a promising premise, no?

More For Mithu And Maina

We’d also like to see how life treats Mithu and Maina in Suno Chanda season 3. Both Sabeena Farooq and Raza Talish brought adorable characters to screen in season 2 and if Jiya and Arsal’s life is progressing, we’d also like to see what Mithu and Maina are up to as well.

With this, we conclude our wishlist for Suno Chanda season 3. Although it does seem highly unlikely, but if it were to ever happen – oh what a delight it would be to see and experience the gorgeous story once again! And yes, the OST. We’d love another new original sound track by Farhan, please!

What’s your take on this? What would you like to see? Let us know in the comments.

Are Ramazan Shows A Bit Over The Top This Year?

By
Sajeer Shaikh
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Ramazan shows often offer wholesome solace in the holy month, and as far as the past few years are considered, audiences have rarely been disappointed. However, while the line-up of shows this year has been promising, it is also true that certain over-the-top elements within these Ramazan shows makes them a tad bit irksome. Now, before everyone gets riled up and begins attacking this post – no, we’re not calling out any actor in particular. This is more of a, “Hey, why don’t we go a different route with the direction and acting?” type of suggestion.

The Comedy

Everyone loves comedy, combined with splashes of romance. These elements are timeless classics. However, if a joke is so unfunny that is must be drilled into the audience’s mind through dramatic antics, in-your-face acting that disturbs the suspension of disbelief, and simply relying on language or accents to derive humor from – well, all of this is getting a little old.

Perhaps the direction must be questioned as well. After all, if actors and directors keep defaulting to archetypes they’ve seen play out and succeed in the past, one wonders where the innovation is. What’s more confusing is the fact that even in the past, examples of dry, sardonic, sarcastic comedy that has even ventured into darker areas is present. Yet, we don’t really see that being utilized as a tool anymore. It’s almost as if eccentric, cartoonish comedy has become a staple.

The Romance

Again, #NotAllRamazanShows, but can we, for the love of all things good and humane, get rid of the cousin marriage angle? We’re not getting into the science behind this, but surely, men in Ramazan shows (and honestly, dramas in general) MUST be able to find women outside the confines of their homes, no? How long will we keep seeing the sibling-to-lovers, enemies-to-lovers and similar other ex-cousins-who-always-end-up-as-lovers tropes playing out?

Moreover, the way this plays out is also extremely overdone, predictable, and over-dramatized. The longing stares, the slowing of time, the stolen glances as music plays in the background – WHO is falling in love like this? Where is that touch of reality that makes one believe in the power of the cousin -uh, we mean, couple’s love?

The Loudness

There is no other way to say it. Some (all?) of these shows tend to be loud. Not in a way where everyone’s shouting and there’s chaos (woh bhi hota hai) but in a way where facts are metaphorically shouted at you. For example, if sisters don’t get along, a strange montage of them fighting can easily be replaced with an actual conversation. Or, if a woman is ambitious and ditzy at the same time, she doesn’t necessarily need to hyperventilate when talking about her passion points.

We get it, yaar. Don’t actorsplain things to us.

Why Is This A Problem?

We can’t sit here and pretend that writing, directing, or acting is easy. None of these jobs are walks in the park. As consumers of Ramazan shows, and content in general, we just want our material to get better – not only internally, but on a global scale. We have the talent. We have the stories.

That’s why this is bothersome. When the resources to churn out different, unique, quality content are available, and we choose to default to tried and tested material, it almost seems like a disservice. The audience can be enthralled by slapstick humor and over-the-top antics – but for how long? Hasn’t that ceiling been pushed up far enough yet for us to collectively hit our heads and be forced into taking the initiative to produce content that’s better?

Again, no shade thrown at any of the current lot – the blame does not solely lie on the actors. However, perhaps it’s time we started respecting the intellect of our audience. Instead of spoon-feeding content through hammy, frivolous, and even ridiculous means, maybe it’s time to revisit the script, rewrite those directorial annotations, and churn out something that is on point in all ways.

Why Naumaan Ijaz’s Questions About Harassment Were Problematic

By
Sajeer Shaikh
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The fact that women and minorities face a bevy of varying threats to their existence all over the world is no surprise. Whether you glance at statistics, or peruse through lived experiences, it cannot be denied that women and minorities do, in fact, face harassment and abuse of different kinds. For a survivor to then speak about the incident is a monumental ordeal. One such survivor is actor Ayesha Omar, who has, on several occasions, spoken up about being harassed in the industry. It is thus that Naumaan Ijaz, in a recent interview, came across as thoroughly problematic, while questioning Ayesha Omar about the same.

Context

In a segment of G Sarkar With Naumaan Ijaz, the actor and host began his line of questioning in what can only be interpreted as coming from a place of not only thorough privilege of being a man, but also of sheer ignorance. He deems Ayesha Omar to be “controversial” and draws familiarity between her “bold shoots” and her having spoken about instances in the past – a subtle nod to her having spoken about harassment. He then asks if she tries to incite controversy by doing so, and if it’s necessary to speak up about the past, looking at others who have done so, which he, himself, does not believe necessary, due to it leading to damage to one’s image.

Ayesha attempts to handle the questions with grace, when she is cut off by Naumaan Ijaz asking if one forgets that survival in the society in which we reside becomes harder in such cases. Ayesha responds by saying that she must follow her truth. He then asks if following her truth proved beneficial in any way, where she was applauded for the same. Ayesha responds that she did not do so for applause, to which he asks why she spoke up in the first place.

Ayesha states that she is answerable to herself, and she spoke up for her personal satisfaction. She asks if he agrees, to which he blatantly states that he does not. She even clarifies that she has never named anyone while speaking up. As she is explaining that she supports her truth, he rudely asks, “Kisi ne aap se sach poocha tha?”

This line of questioning makes up a mere two to three minutes of the topic in hand. Yet, there are a plethora of problematic statements in this exchange.

Why Is This Problematic?

Speaking about harassment is hard. There is no easier way to explain it. The trauma often resides deep within an individual, and knowing that speaking up will always warrant more backlash than support is a very real understanding survivors share.

As Ayesha points out in the interview as well, many women face this issue and do not speak up about it. Women are never lauded for sharing their truth, simply because society chooses to point fingers at them, as opposed to the perpetrator of the abuse. Naumaan Ijaz became a microcosmic representation of society in this interview, not only discouraging the sharing of such stories, but handling the line of questioning with a complete lack of sensitivity.

Does He Have A Point, Though?

Many people turn a blind eye to harassment, not only in our society, but globally as well. Very seldom does one hear about holding the perpetrator accountable. The questions posed by Naumaan Ijaz are not unique – they echo the thought processes of a vast majority of society. It is this train of thought that makes people believe women are asking for attention, or seeking fame by speaking up about instances that may or may not have happened.

Yet, let’s take a step back to ask ourselves: how many women have actually cemented their names for the better in society by speaking up? How many women have gained more than they have lost when they out their abusers? Moreover, how many men have suffered the consequences of their alleged actions?

Lack Of Empathy

Journalistic integrity is abysmal in our society. However, Naumaan Ijaz is not a journalist. What could have been a thoughtful conversation between two colleagues or actors from the same fraternity ended up being an almost hostile verbal vomit – one that came from a place of privilege, ignorance, insensitivity, and a general lack of research.

Our severe lack of empathy for survivors manifests in many ways. Whether it is our support for perpetrators, the brutal character assassination of women who speak up, or our ridiculous questions for survivors – as a whole, we must do better, and we must create a safe space for all those who have already suffered enough.

To Sum Up…

There is truth in what Ayesha Omar stated and it must be given due to attention. When one woman speaks up about her instance of harassment, not only does it require immense strength, but she opens up an avenue for other women to gain inspiration and share their truth. Let us inculcate within ourselves the basic human decency to have receptive ears, and create a space for these survivors, instead of silencing them further and shoving them back into the shadows.

Sheheryar Munawar’s Khel Kay Jeet Hooks Audiences With Fun And Charm

By
Ozair Majeed
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Game shows have been a staple on television. Over the years, game shows in Pakistan have experienced an upward trend, especially in Ramazan, with innovative concepts and wholesome entertainment. Add to this, when celebrities turn into game show hosts – the experience is always refreshing. Popular actors have headed shows and proved themselves as entertaining and enthusiastic hosts. The latest addition to join the game-show-host bandwagon is actor Sheheryar Munawar Siddiqui, with his brand-new show ‘Khel Kay Jeet’.

Known for his memorable roles in projects like Parey Hut Love and Pehli Si Mohabbat; this is his first game show hosting gig. Does Khel Kay Jeet make for a fun viewing experience?

Entertaining Format

The contestants on Khel Kay Jeet are put through several interesting physical tasks that make them do everything to win. They have to play 3 rounds based on tricky tasks, fun games, and quizzes to eventually reach the final obstacle round. The winner of this round wins bumper prizes i.e., plots in popular housing societies, Dubai tickets, and a brand-new car. Not just that – no one goes empty-handed; prizes and gift hampers are distributed on a mammoth scale. Viewers at home can also participate and win big by answering simple questions.

Unnecessary Stunts?

The format of Khel Kay Jeet isn’t out of the box, but thankfully it doesn’t showcase gimmicks to fetch TRP’s. Audience members don’t have to perform with makeup to win prizes, nor are women body shamed to participate. Fake fights have yet to break out as well. So far, it’s within boundaries of decency.

Shehreyar At His Candid Best

The formula for an entertaining game show requires a good concept and fun games. But it’s the host who can make or break a show. Shehreyar hits the right chord with the viewers. He doesn’t try too hard and comes across as highly candid. He’s personable and good with the contestants. Beneath his well-tailored wardrobe and pleasant smile, he injects high energy, quick jokes, and one-liners to keep the celebrity guest and studio audience entertained.

Verdict So Far

This light-hearted game show Khel Kay Jeet is Sheheryar’s honest attempt to provide wholesome family entertainment in Ramazan. It makes the viewers sit back and relax with their eyes set on the screens. We do wish the gaming segments could have more diversity in the upcoming episodes so that it challenges the contestants even more. To sum it up, so far, so good!

Chaudhry And Sons Wins Hearts With Ease This Ramazan

By
Armaan Shehreyaar
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Ramzan special serials are the latest trend to bless our TV screens. Quite rightfully, when these light hearted plays break viewership records every year, writers and producers get motivated even more to bring new shows for the next year too. A number of shows like ‘Chaudhveen Ka Chaand’, ‘Roza Ke Rozay’, and ‘Faiz Manzil Ke Rozaydaar’ had ruled our screens in past decades. However, the craze that is witnessed now for Ramzan dramas is unmatched. It all started from Saima Akram Chaudhry aka Queen Of Ramzan plays’ ‘Suno Chanda’ back in 2018. It was then the most watched Ramzan show which made the producers bring another season to the series next year, following a number of special shows every year. Today, we talk about Chaudhry And Sons.

Chaudhry And Sons

After the successful ‘Ishq Jalebi’, Geo Entertainment has launched another Ramzan special show this year titled ‘Chaudhry And Sons’. Despite a constant demand to bring the sequel of the former, makers preferred to launch a fresh story instead that will lighten the screens and create new memories this year.

The Plot

A lot like Saima Akram’s other projects, ‘Chaudhry And Sons’ also revolves around a Punjabi household, but with a touch of Hyderabad Deccan this time. The story revolves around Chaudhry Dildaar, head of the Chaudhry family, who is proud of his family values and principles. No one in his family has ever married outside the caste, except his daughter Sabahat, with whom he broke all relations.

Sabahat and her husband had died in a car accident long ago, leaving behind their daughter Parisa (Ayeza Khan) with her grandmother Malka Begum (Irsa Ghazal). They reach the Chaudhry household, unaware of their real identity, following a series of events. While the family gives them the utmost care and respect, Billu Chaudhry (Imran Ashraf) falls in love with Parisa instantly. It is at this point that audiences can’t help wonder: what will happen next?

Performances

‘Chaudhry And Sons’ contains a bunch of talented artists who need no introduction, as their craft speaks volumes. While Imran Ashraf and Ayeza Khan are winning hearts as Billu and Pari, viewers can’t help but adore Irsa Ghazal and Sohail Ahmed as the grandparents. Sohail Sumeer, Madiha Rizvi, Shagufta Ejaz, Noorul Hassan, and Asma Abbas portray uncles and aunts beautifully as well. These strong performances are also one of the reasons why the show is doing well in terms of ratings.

The Highs And Lows

There has been some criticism with regards to the narrative falling into a dramatic portrayal of a Punjabi household. Some viewers have also claimed to find similarities between Ishq Jalebi and Chaudhry And Sons.

However, most people are satisfied with the show as it promotes family values and shows poignant family reunions which is a celebrated and widely accepted genre in South Asia. The writer and director are to be credited for a show that takes us back to our roots and is a total family entertainer.

Verdict So Far

‘Chaudhry And Sons’ is doing a remarkable job as it is catchy, entertaining, light hearted, emotional, as well as a family-oriented show. It is an overall commendable effort to bring families closer in the nights of Ramazan.

Ramazan Special Paristan Makes For A Fun, Compelling Watch

By
Ozair Majeed
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Over a couple of years, Ramazan viewing serials have become a norm. Especially after the super success of Suno Chanda (2018) followed by Chupke Chupke (2021); the craze of light-hearted, fun, entertaining Ramazan serials connect with the viewers big time. With the benchmark set so high, the attempt to make a better entertainer is bound to get judged, most likely with a magnifying glass. 2022 was no different as three prominent serials premiered this Ramazan. HUM TV’s Paristan had an edge as it brings back Arsalan Naseer and Aymen Saleem, the magical duo Hadi and Mishi from Chupke Chupke.

Let’s get to the point: does Paristan transport us to a different world? Well… the trailer had prepared us for what to expect, and Paristan does live up to those expectations.

The Premise

Paristan is the story of Pernia aka Pari (Aymen Saleem), a young bubbly girl who daydreams about her Mr. Perfect. She wants to live life to the fullest and fulfill all her dreams. She lives with her maternal uncle Safie (Safie Hasan), aunt Haseena (Javeria Saud), and cousin Ujala (Merub Ali). Unfortunately, things are difficult for Pari as Haseena isn’t too happy with her being part of the family.

Kamali (Ali Safina) lives in their neighborhood; an innocent guy, always ready to help. Safie’s sister Mehreen (Navin Waqar) is a temperamental diva, who doesn’t trust men, especially after her divorce. We are then introduced to Zubaida (Mira Sethi) a maid who is good at doing household work.

There’s a parallel track that features Arsam (Arsalan Naseer) dealing with the loss of his older brother and managing his kids. He is deeply affected by this tragedy and wants to relocate to his own house. His grandmother, played by Azra Mansoor refutes the decision but Arsam is desperate to shift. Amanullah (Mooroo) works as a servant at his place.

What Have We Liked So Far?

Paristan is a fun ride laced with several comic situations. Writer Samra Bukhari should be credited for a refreshing script. She succeeds in providing a relatable fun fest aimed to please the masses. Bukhari sprinkles the premise with unique characters that make the proceedings work for most parts.

A couple of sequences standout: Arsam and Pari are poles apart, hence their confrontations mostly in the middle of the road come across as adorable. The Gen-Z kids outshine Arsam each time with their cute and witty one-liners.

Keeping the inflation rate in the country in view, this angle is relatable and merged well with Haseena’s character. The split in Mehreen upon seeing a happy couple is played to perfection. But it’s the magical duo of Zubaida and Amanullah that bring the house down.

The Loopholes

A couple of sequences could have been curtailed, such as the Kamali and Aarzooji sequence, which looked forced. We’re also forced to ask numerous questions. Why is Ujala so eager to inquire about Arsam’s family? The track of Bubloo’s mother isn’t going anywhere. Why can’t we prepare a drama without the ‘cousin marriage’ ingredient? Yes! Haseena’s nephew Babar (Junaid Jamshaid Niazi) is head over heels in love with Ujala. Also, some of the sequences seem to have been directed halfheartedly. For instance, when Babar tries to convince Mehreen to remarry, or when Haseena’s panic attacks over little things and her conversation with her husband Safie doesn’t offer something conclusive.

There are certain logistical glitches as well. How is Pari seen wearing a new joda in almost every scene when she is solely dependent on the uncle? Ujala is cutting vegetables while wearing high heels in the kitchen, which doesn’t seem to happen in real life. It’s bizarre to see actors faking a cup of tea. If tea isn’t available on the sets, boiling water can give that effect. Moreover, in her introduction shot, Pari was wearing a pair of sneakers in the bus. Cut to the next scene, they suddenly transform into khussas.

The Performances

Starting off with the lead pair, Arsalan Naseer yet again shines bright and delivers a composed performance. He glides into his character effortlessly; he is in no hurry to overstep the boundary that works well with a comic play. Aymen Saleem gets a meaty part to showcase her talent and till now, she lends a lot of grace to her character. Her sequences with Arsam are fresh and charming. The next set of superlative performances come from Mira Sethi and Mooroo. Without mouthing many lines, they are incredibly expressive. It was a great idea to reprise their hit YouTube characters.

Merub and Junaid fit their parts well. Navin Waqar is a surprise package. It will be interesting to see how her character unfolds. Ali Safina leaves a strong impression in his sequences.

We have, however, seen better versions of the loud Punjabi mother but Haseena aka Javeria Saud’s act is a drawback in the enterprise.

Summing It Up So Far

If you relish a light comic entertainer all the way, chances are you will also lap up Paristan in the upcoming episodes. With some powerful acts, new avatars, and modifications, along with a refreshing plot, Paristan makes for a compelling watch.

Here’s How British Asian Actor Ahsan Khan Feels About THAT Meme

By
Sajeer Shaikh
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Memes really do make the world go round. It doesn’t matter if you’ve said something recently, or four years ago – anything is fair game when it comes to the world of memes. Actor Ahsan Khan, thus, became the focus of various netizens, when an old video began circulating (you know the one) where he states that he’s a British Asian actor, who lives “here and there as well.”

The Context Of The Video

Upon reaching out to Ahsan Khan, the actor provided further context regarding the video in question.

“This video is around four years old,” states Ahsan Khan. “When I was doing theatre in London, I think I left Pakistan for 3 to 4 months. I was training there. I was in Birmingham for 25 days and in London for around two months. My parents still live there. This video is from that time. I didn’t quite get how this resurfaced after four years. Initially, I was hardly bothered.”

Reaction To The Memes

When asked if Ahsan Khan himself has changed upon any memes, he had the following to say:

“Of course I’ve seen the memes. I’m actually comparing the memes and loving them. We have a great sense of humor. Every time I am tagged in a meme or sent one, I really enjoy it.”

Ahsan Khan’s Reenactment

Recently, Ahsan Khan also reenacted the meme. When asked about what prompted him to do so, he stated the following:

“Everybody was making a video or a meme, and because I was enjoying it, I planned to make one as well with my kids to also be a part of the fun.”

On Aiding Promotions

Given that the video went viral close to the release of Ahsan Khan starrers, Chakkar and Rehbara, linking virality to promotions made for a fair question. Ahsan graciously put this query to rest as well.

“I actually hadn’t thought about this. It was so unplanned. We were doing our own share of promotions, and I just hope the best for Chakkar and Rehbara because we’ve worked hard and Yasir and Amin Iqbal have made really great films. While I am proud to be a part of both these films, I hadn’t thought about how this would aid promotions.”

He ends the conversation by thinking out loud as to how the virality of the meme can, indeed, be linked to promotions.

Regardless of how and when this clip resurfaced, one is truly glad that it did, for it has rekindled the quality Pakistanis possess to induce laughter. What are your thoughts on the meme? What’s your favorite one thus far? Let us know in the comments.

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