It’s always a treat for Fawad Khan fans to tune in to see a glimpse of Pakistan’s heartthrob when and while they can. The charismatic musician and actor is known to dial down on his public appearances, and it is a rare sight to see the actor sit for an interview. After much await and to the audience’s surprise, Fawad Khan sat for an interview with his friend and ex bandmember Ahmed Ali Butt on his show.
It was a rare sight for all his fans to see the actor opening up about his career and his personal opinions in much depth. Fawad dished out how he became an accidental actor, his early career as a musician, and the use of social media in today’s day and age. Scroll down to see what he had to say.
Fawad Khan’s music journey
The conversation opened with both the ex-band members of ‘Entity Paradigm’ talking about Fawad’s journey of finding the band during his days as an undergrad student at FAST University. There he met Xulfi. Confessing how the band contributed to his love for music, the actor said, “In a time when social media and the internet weren’t there, your only escape was music and film.”
The ‘TheLegend of Maula Jatt’ star was honest about his journey as a musician and an actor and admitted, “Music started as timepass and then I started falling in love with it. Same with acting. I was an accidental actor.”
Fawad admitted that his band had an “ugly breakup” but he believes in leaving things in the past and moving on.
Family dynamics
When asked whether he faced any objection from his family in becoming an actor he recalled that his parents did not have any issues in particular, it’s just that his father would ask him to do great at whatever he pursued so that he could establish himself.
Talking about the advances in technology over the years, Fawad said he believes that every generation is different and said: “My wish for my children is that they become good humans.”
Fawad’s journey of becoming an actor: From Jutt and Bond to Humsafar and beyond
Fawad Khan’s journey of becoming an actor commenced when he took the role of a spy in the sitcom ‘Jutt and Bond’ and hasn’t looked back since then.
When talking about ‘Humsafar’ he admitted, “It was a paycheck”. The actor further added that he rejected ‘Humsafar‘ twice but gave in after Momina Duraid was persistent in having him on board. Fawad said, “’Humsafar’ has given me a lot and I think it mostly worked not because it’s really a unique story. Many more stories like that were being told at that time. I think it was the combination of the people who did it. Something was there.”
Fawad contributed to the success of the drama to the OST, which was sung by Qurat-ul-Ain Balouch. “The song had a lot to play with it. What a song. It had a role to play in it.”
Fawad admitted to being grateful for having ‘Humsafar’ in his life, but he did confess he wouldn’t do the project again. He added that he believes in doing novel things. He said, “I wasn’t in love with ‘Humsafar’. I have fond memories. It created a household name. I owe it a lot. It’s like the scenario where you don’t get to choose your parents or siblings.”
Later, discussing his film ‘Khoobsurat’ Fawad revealed, “I gave a screentest…[Doing the project] was more like why not, to see how they [Indians] work.”
He underscored how he enjoyed the process of doing that film and had a similar advice to give out to all aspiring actors, “Always enjoy the process. If you enjoy the process, the product will shine. Or at least people will connect with that.”
Additionally, Fawad jokingly compared himself to a flag, going in the direction the wind takes him. As for his plans, he revealed that he doesn’t want to do emotionally heavy stuff as “it becomes irritating”.
Television, Cinemas, And Stars
Fawad Khan talked about how television has played an important role in his life, but he has biases for cinema. “There is some magic associated with cinema. Television is accessible. You can turn it off. You can walk out of a cinema, but you cannot turn it off. You can’t turn off the phenomenon of a film. The second accessibility of television is that it is available every day. It is at your disposal, literally, so it kills the sense of exclusivity.”
Fawad Khan also underlined the difference between cinema and television by adding that because the audience pays to watch a film, they are ready to give their critique and pass their judgments.
Fawad commented on why he doesn’t feel the need to use social media. “I firmly believe that less is more”, the star commented. “I ask my PR to take out my name from things. My manager, who is a good friend now, would say that I don’t know how the world works.” He continued saying, “I don’t want to do Instagram and Facebook. People say that ‘what is seen is sold’, I say ‘what is seen less is sold more’. I believe when work is coming that is the time when you should do the marketing. I don’t want to tell the world that I am eating a fried egg, or I am at a beach. I believe this dilutes the power of a movie star.”
Lastly, Fawad also admitted that his costars from his Indian films, Sonam Kapoor and Siddharth Malhotra, were the ones who made his account on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram. He added that he is not active on social media and his team handles his account.
Lastly, Fawad Khan talked about star power and his take on how social media contributes negatively to star power due to the accessibility of the star. While he said he believes in communicating with his fans, celebrities don’t need social media necessarily because they used to do it before the medium didn’t exist as well. “I have a theory of diluting the power of a music star which is them being available 24/7.”
Bollywood has been a treasure trove of iconic duos, shaping the essence of romance, friendship, and passion on the silver screen. From the timeless love of Raj and Simran in ‘Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge’ to the hilarious camaraderie of Munna Bhai and Circuit in ‘Munna Bhai MBBS’, these pairs have etched themselves into cinematic history. However, that all happened on the other side of the border. What if, these classic pairs were recast with Pakistani celebs on this side? Let’s reimagine these iconic duos with Pakistani celebrities, offering a delightful cross-border twist to these classic tales.
Wahaj Ali and Yumna Zaidi as Raj & Simran From Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge
Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge’ painted an enduring portrait of love set amidst the modern world. If this timeless classic were to be retold in Pakistan, Wahaj Ali and Yumna Zaidi would infuse Raj and Simran’s characters with their natural charisma. Wahaj Ali and Yumna Zaidi recently wowed the audience with their sizzling chemistry in Tere Bin and if the duo were to be recast as Raj and Simran, we can only imagine how well they’d capture the essence of two hearts entwined amidst love, culture and familial ties. We can totally imagine Wahaj Ali as Raj amongst the yellow sunflower field, opening his arms wide and the music playing in the background…
Humayun Saeed and Ahmed Ali Butt as Munna Bhai & Circuit From Munna Bhai MBBS
The bromance between Munna Bhai and Circuit in Munna Bhai MBBS was a delightful mix of humour and unwavering loyalty. Sanjay Dutt and Arshad Warsi were not only well tuned with one another but also had great comic timing. In a Pakistani rendition, Humayun Saeed and Ahmed Ali Butt’s camaraderie would be one of the best recasts for this iconic due. Saeed’s versatile acting and Ahmed Ali Butt’s comedic genius would bring a new dimension to Munna Bhai and Circuit. Their impeccable timing and contagious laughter would undoubtedly win the audience’s hearts.
Hira Mani and Ahmed Ali Akbar as Geet & Aditya From Jab We Met
‘Jab We Met‘ sparkled with the vivaciousness of Kareena Kapoor’s Geet and the quiet depth of Shahid Kapoor’s Aditya. If these were to be remade in Pakistan, we can also think of Hira Mani to be cast as the evergreen bubbly, Geet. Hira Mani’s effervescent charm combined with Ahmed Ali Akbar’s understated yet powerful presence as Aditya would add a refreshing zest to this iconic pair. Hira Mani has that subtle quality about her that would allow her to metamorphose from the vivacious Geet to the serious one after the tragedy. Ahmed Ali Akbar’s brooding personality and Hira Mani’s on-screen energy could rekindle the joyous spirit of the original ‘Jab We Met‘ while resonating with the audience in a Pakistani setting.
Wahaj Ali and Maya Ali as Ram & Leela from Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela
‘Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela‘ was a tale of passion, conflict, and undying love set against a backdrop of feuding families. Deepika’s Leela to Ranbir Singh’s Ram sizzled the screen with their chemistry. If this film were to be made in Pakistan, we could think of none other than Wahaj Ali and Maya Ali playing the iconic roles. With their magnetic chemistry and emotive prowess, both Wahaj and Maya could breathe life into the roles of Ram and Leela in a Pakistani adaptation. Their ability to portray raw emotions would evoke the intensity and fervour of this tale of forbidden love. And oh God, aren’t we just dying to see Wahaj as Ram!
Hamza Ali Abbasi and Ayeza Khan as Devdas & Paro from Devdas
‘Devdas‘ is a tragic saga of love, addiction, and societal barriers. Hamza Ali Abbasi’s commanding presence and Ayeza Khan’s grace and emotive depth would capture the agony and passion of Shahrukh Khan’s Devdas and Aishwarya Rai’s Paro in a Pakistani rendition. Their performances and expressive power could delve into the complexities of love torn apart by circumstances beyond their control. The duo is currently setting the screen on fire with Jaan e Jahan. Just imagine Hamza and Ayeza and Dev Babu and Paro… a match made in heaven, we’d say.
The power of storytelling transcends borders, and these reimagined pairings showcase the talent and diversity within the Pakistani entertainment industry. While these iconic Bollywood duos hold a special place in cinematic history, envisioning them with Pakistani stars would just add an entertaining twist for the audience on this side of the border. It’s a celebration of talent, versatility, and the universal language of emotions that connects audiences worldwide. Filmmakers, please take note and appropriate permissions.
Recently seen in the drama serial ‘Jindo’ and as Daro in the film ‘The Legend of Maula Jatt’, Humaima Malick made an appearance for a podcast with Mooroo and dished out important details about her career as an actress and the general criticism she has received from the audience over the years.
Humaima Malick on Feroze Khan
The actress talked about her brother Feroze Khan and the criticism that comes his way for being ‘religious’. She said, “If my brother is religious, they’ll tag him under my pictures, or they’ll tag me in one of my brother’s posts.” She further pointed out, “We’re individuals, okay? I am my own person, he is responsible for his own character, right?” Humaima stressed that it’s not right to throw shade on Feroze or herself because of them being siblings.
The actress also appreciated her brother’s commitment to his work and applauded him for his achievements. “Feroze started working when social media was already there. We made our accounts a little while back. Feroze is today’s boy. We have different strategies for working. He is more particular and punctual than me and he is less moody.”
She also added, “Feroze has a cult fan following. People usually come to meet him on Fridays when he leaves the house. Now people frequently refer to me as Feroze’s sister, and I am very proud.”
Humaima expresses her opinion on public scrutiny
Humaima did not shy away from talking about the criticism she received from the audience. She explicitly added in the interview that “people are always ready to criticize”.
Humaima went on to discuss that she receives selective criticism from the audience on her clothing choices. She expressed her opinion on how she is publicly bashed as compared to the rest of the actresses who wear more revealing clothes. She also talked about the unnecessary backlash she received after posting a video of her getting out of a pool, despite being clothed.
She also questioned the motivations behind the negative comments. “If you are sitting behind a screen and typing and criticizing someone just shows how frustrated people are. Then when they come to meet you and then they will say madam selfie le lein.”
The interview also featured Humaima’s discussion of her career choices over the years. She mentioned one of the reasons for her taking gaps during her acting career, “I was in a relationship and my partner did not want me to work. I am also the sort of person who wouldn’t like to work after getting married.”
The actress went on to praise ‘The Legend of Maula Jatt’ director Bilal Lashari, who ensured everyone felt comfortable on set during the shoot. She also shared her experience of working with Hamza Ali Abbasi for the first time in the film ‘The Legend of Maula Jatt’.
The entertainment industry is certainly about trends and television is a huge part of this vogue world. There is a plethora of genres, types, and natures of regular TV dramas and soaps that we witness one after the other. However, there is much more to what you see on TV than what meets the eye. There are co-incidences, conceptualization, brainstorming, and a lot of planning that viewers often tend to overlook.
Recently, when we observed a fresh fad of sequels being announced by makers of different channels, one of them was ARY Digital’s ‘BabyBaji Ki Bahuein’ which gathered huge limelight for being a daily soap to return with a new season competing with Geo TV’s grand commercial project ‘Tere Bin’. But that was not the only notable element in this situation. Viewers found it a little devious that ARY Network released an unexpected first teaser of the show just when Green TV launched ‘Mohabbat Satrangi‘ a new soap serial with more than half of ‘Baby Baji’s cast.
‘Baby Baji”s ensemble cast includes Samina Ahmad, Munawar Saeed, Javeria Saud, Saud, Sunita Marshall, Hassan Ahmed, Aina Asif, Junaid Jamshed Niazi, Syeda Tuba Anwar, Fazal Hussain, Faiza Khan, Farhad Ali, Javeria Nayyar and Fareeha Jabeen, whereas ‘Mohabbat Satrangi‘ has the same cast, except Aina Asif and Faiza Khan.
The Curious Case of Baby Baji and Mohabbat Satrangi
Many people who noticed this unusually dramatic clash of soaps on two different channels, called it a desperate attempt from either of the two networks to use the cast or concept of the original show to achieve the attention of the masses.
Galaxy Lollywoodreached out to Javeria Saud, the actress who plays pivotal roles in both shows and also the producer and writer of Green TV’s venture to address these concerns. She revealed that ‘Baby Baji’‘s second season wasn’t in plan, since Abdullah Seja’s iDream Production had concluded the show in the first season, though the cast wanted to work together again. That’s when Green Entertainment offered them another show to work on. However, she called it nothing but a coincidence that both channels have created two dramas with similar cast and story.
Discussing creating ‘Mohabbat Satrangi‘ with almost the same team as ‘Baby Baji’, Javeria said, “We have done ample of such work which had similar cast. Actually, people don’t connect with the cast as much as they do with the characters. They don’t call me Javeria rather they they refer to me as Azra.”
Javeria Saud was once a household name as Jameela from her popular soap ‘Yeh Zindagi Hai’. “When ‘Yeh Zindagi Hai’ started, several other dramas started on different channels, with our cast, even the same writer and director. We feel good when people follow us.” she said.
The actress revealed that Green Entertainment approached her home production JJSI to create a soap of her style a year ago and since then ‘Mohabbat Satrangi’ has been in the pipeline. “We became very good friends, after ‘Baby Baji’ we used to meet and sit together. So, we decided to work together for this project which was already being planned,” she added. The drama’s director is Shahid Younis and Javeria has penned the show.
Similarities and Comparisons Between Baby Baji Ki Bahuein and Mohabbat Satrangi
It is intrinsic for a regular viewer to draw comparisons and look for similarities between two dramas that have a seemingly equivalent plotline and cast. So, the viewers pointed out a few elements that can overlap if both shows run simultaneously on different channels. For instance, the same elderly couple, Samina Ahmed and Munawar Saeed schooling their offspring to act decent and respect the legacy of the joint family.
Upon being asked about this Javeria said, “I have shown three different generations in ‘Mohabbat Satrangi’. How they all have different mindsets, dreams, objectives, as well as priorities.” Adding further she said, “You will see there is a business being run by three generations, where each generation has a different approach towards it, which adds a mazedaar flavour to it.”
About ‘Baby Baji’ she said, “’Baby Baji’was a well-written script which was about how a mother protects her children under her feathers and how children somehow change after marriage, it was a beautiful story. I have no idea about the story of the upcoming season of ‘Baby Baji Ki Bahuein’, however, I am pretty sure it will be a hit as it already is.” she added.
The First Impression of Mohabbat Satrangi
‘Mohabbat Satrangi’ began airing on Green TV this Monday and it can be called a powerful start. Two episodes so far and it managed to hook the audience to this huge household called Shaan Villaquite impactfully. Having little to no uniqueness in the basic plotline the usual soap serials can be counted as a plus point for the drama. Masses took no time to connect to the characters shown and the issues they were dealing with. One can simply not overlook Javeria Saud’s portrayal of a dramatic, conniving, yet innocent Husn Aara who is trying to escape the dark reality of the passing of time and age while waiting for her fiancé Azeem played by Saud Qasmi for almost a decade.
Viewer Anticipation
TV soaps might lack the innovation and subtlety that a powerful prime time slot demands. However, they have a beauty of their own in the simplicity, relevance and realistic portrayal of family politics and domestic issues. Daily soaps have had a different flavour in Pakistan, we cannot forget classic soap serials like ‘Tanweer Fatima BA’, ‘Yeh Zindagi Hai’, ‘Malika e Aaliya’, ‘Maasi Aur Malka’, among a list of numerous hits. ‘Baby Baji’ had definitely revived lounge gatherings and healthy sittings on the 7 pm tea slot while it’s run and ‘Mohabbat Satrangi’ is the next to be doing the same with much righteousness. We wonder what would ‘Baby Baji Ki Bahuein’ add to this table and if it would get the same response as the other two shows received from the viewers.
Have you ever gotten the feeling, while watching a particular drama, that you want to punch a character right in the face? Most of you would answer yes, because fans of Pakistani dramas often experience this feeling while sitting in front of their televisions. More often than not, we come across such douchebag characters that it becomes difficult to control our emotions, even sitting on the other side of the screen. One such character, who is nowadays on the receiving end of a lot of hate for being a spineless husband is Murad Chaudhry — played by Talha Chahour — from ‘Mannat Muraad‘ on Geo Entertainment.
Where do we even begin with, mentioning all the red flags that Murad possesses? Every time, he speaks, he creates a mess. He is not only an overgrown baby but a man-child who shouldn’t have gotten married in the first place. For us qualifying Muraad as “spineless” implies that he has a lack of assertiveness, confidence, or the ability to stand up for himself or others.
Here are 5 red flags that Muraad embodies and if spotted in someone else, make sure to run away immediately!
Lack of Assertiveness
Muraad has been showcased as an obedient son, however, this obedience is a cover for the character’s lack of assertiveness. As a spineless husband or perhaps, a spineless man as a whole, Muraad struggles to voice his opinions, make decisions, or express his likes and desires in most situations. He often yields to his family’s wishes without considering his own needs, before it even comes down to Mannat. What we don’t understand is why Muraad is incapable of telling his mother that he loves his wife and he wants her to end all the conflicts with Mannat. He runs the house financially, how hard could it be for him to be the man of the house?
Inability to set boundaries
We honestly don’t even know where to start with this problematic character. Muraad is not at all capable of setting boundaries. Although we understand that desi families might not have a concept of personal space when it comes to children, Muraad is now a full-grown adult with a wife and he should be able to set boundaries for his family and his wife too. Instead, he not only lets his mother walk over him but also his wife, he can govern him as she likes.
Muraad’s Avoidance of Conflict
In the course of the episodes what we’ve seen is pretty clear. Muraad tends to shy away from conflicts or difficult conversations, opting for peace at any cost, even if it means suppressing his own feelings or needs. He runs away from his house to avoid the fact that his mother doesn’t want him to bring his wife back.
Inability to Take a Stand
Muraad often struggles to take a firm stance on things concerning his personal life. He cannot tell his mother he doesn’t want a divorce, he cannot tell his sister’s husband that he is a freeloader and is often being swayed by others’ opinions or family pressures rather than standing by his convictions, that is, if he has any.
Muraad’s Dependency
Muraad’s dependency is ill proportionate in the drama. He excessively relies on his friends, his mother and often Mannat for decision-making, guidance and emotional support, lacking the confidence to handle situations independently. He has issues with his family asking Mannat’s family for added dowry, he turns to his friend for help, asking Mannat to be quiet. In fact, in the recent episode, it was quite evident that Muraad depends on his friends, in this case, Azra, to convey messages to Mannat because he, himself doesn’t want to talk to her.
Mannat Muraad is a family show and the makers need to stop advocating such behaviour in men in an already problematic society. Not only that, the entire narrative of the show seems problematic enough, lost in various subplots that it is trying to highlight. Whether the drama talks about family pressure, a toxic dysfunctional family, female rights, or feminism, one doesn’t know for sure. What we do know is that Mannat Muraad’s story is lost amongst so many narratives set into one play and what is left of the drama is the toxic traits of Muraad, getting hate, left, right and centre.
The debut episode of Geo Entertainment‘s ‘Khaie‘ not only captivated the viewers with its enthralling storyline and breathtaking views of Pakistan’s northern areas but also served as a delightful reunion for the dynamic duo, Dur e Fishan and Faysal Quraishi. Faysal, making a triumphant return post ‘Fark‘, and Dure, back on the Geo screen since her appearance in ‘Jurm‘, hint at an impending call to action — a promise of real violence and intense conflicts that will undoubtedly keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
The Intricate Rivalry of ‘Khaie’
The storyline weaves a compelling saga of rivalry between two tribal titans, Duraab Khan played by Khalid Butt and Darwaish Khan – portrayed by Noor ul Hassan. The tension escalates as Duraab, the perpetrator of a heinous act against Darwaish’s family, awaits the impending revenge. However, as Darwaish Khan returns to his hometown with his family for a vacation, he shocks everyone by extending an unexpected olive branch, forgiving Turab for the unforgivable. Yet, Duraab, a conventional and sceptical Sardar, remains hesitant, questioning the sincerity behind Darwaish’s gesture, and making things worse for his family. Make us wonder what’s wrong with him.
Beyond Love: Exploring Desire in ‘Khaie’s Twisted Tale
In the fascinating world crafted by the director Wajahat Hussain, Khaie unfolds a tale of unexpected connections. Zimad, daughter of Darwaish Khan – played by Dur e Fishan and Chinar Khan, son of Turab Khan – played by Faysal Quraishi collide, unravelling a tale not of love, but of unbridled lust that defies norms. Chinar, a twice-wed rebel, succumbs to Zimad’s allure, plotting a new escapade fueled by desire. Surprisingly, he reveals a softer side by defending his first wife, unveiling the complexities within. Meanwhile, Zimad, brilliantly portrayed by Dur e Fishan, is an educated, vibrant, dreaming of love and a village school. Dure totally owned her role, rocking the tribal vibes with that traditional attire and a signature tribal braid – the perfect combo of adorable and effortlessly elegant.
Wajahat Hussain’s Khaie: A Cinematic Expedition into Tribal Turbulence
Director Wajahat Hussain skillfully immerses the audience in tribal culture, from the explosive gunshots welcoming friends to the crowd gatherings, depicting the raw lifestyle of a Sardar. The ruthless nature of Chinar’s father, who cuts a villager’s thumb over a property dispute, sets the tone, ensuring the audience fears the Turabs, a family not known for mercy. The director nails every detail, making Khaie a captivating journey into the heart of tradition and intrigue. Appreciation goes to the cast for their commendable efforts in capturing the Pashtun accent. The attention to detail, from costumes to dialogue delivery, is noteworthy and adds authenticity to the overall experience.
As the new year unfolds, ‘Khaie’ offers a fresh adventure for drama enthusiasts. The upcoming episode, teased with glimpses of violence leaves us curious about the journey ahead. Let’s see where this narrative takes us in the realm of drama.
Feroze Khan will be making his Green Entertainment debut in the upcoming project ‘Akhara’, portraying an intriguing character. Joining him as the main star is the stunning Sonya Hussyn.
As the title of the drama suggests, the narrative will be centred around fights and training in an akhara and the struggle for power that comes with it. The drama is written by ‘Baarwaan Khiladi’‘s Shahid Dogar and directed by ‘Pehli Si Muhabbat”s Anjum Shahzad.
The plot
Green Entertainment has already released a couple of teasers and trailers ahead of the drama’s release to build intrigue around it. It’s safe to say the job has been aptly done, as we are left compelled to see the characters in the teasers without entirely giving away the complete plot.
The narrative revolves around Dilsher (portrayed by Feroze Khan), a young individual bred among bodybuilders and wrestlers, who trained extensively in combat. The teaser showcases numerous instances of him participating in fights. The storyline progresses as Dilsher transitions from his village life to pursue education at a university, where he develops feelings for Sonya Hussyn’s character. However, due to certain circumstances, he is bound to return and seek vengeance, engaging in intense fights to protect his family. Everything hangs in the balance — his honour, pride, and love.
Sonya Hussyn essays the role of the girl next door. The actress looks as stunning as always. As of now, we see her merely playing the love interest of Dilsher from the teasers, but we do hope she plays a substantial role as the story progresses.
There are multiple tracks in the drama with a promising cast. We see Srha Asghar and Faraz Farooqui from the teasers. Faraz Farooqui is going to be playing the role of another wrestler with Srha’s character as his love interest.
Yasra Rizvi appears on the screen, depicted as impressed by Dilsher’s wrestling performance in the ring. We look forward to her character development on-screen. Additionally, Shahzad Nawaz and Waseem Abbas join this captivating lineup, alongside other cast members.
Sonya Hussyn and Feroze Khan join hands for a new project following their film ‘Tich Button’
Sonya Hussyn and Feroze Khan, previously paired in Qasim Ali Mureed’s film ‘Tich Button’, are now teaming up for a television drama. Feroze Khan is presently featuring in the drama ‘Khumar’, while Sonya was last seen in ‘Tere Bina Main Nahi’.
From the teasers, their on-screen chemistry appears fiery, promising an explosive dynamic. However, concerning their roles, there’s a desire for more depth. Sonya’s character seems primarily relegated to the male lead’s romantic interest, leaving us hoping that her character has more substance. On the other hand, Feroze Khan seems to portray an angry young man once more, although we did see him breaking the pattern with his role as Basit in the project ‘Habs’. ‘Akhara’ releases on 10th January at 8 pm on Green Entertainment.
Model turned actress Amna Ilyas was recently featured on Frieha Altaf’s podcast, where she candidly shared insights into her journey as a model and actress, discussing the myriad challenges and fluctuations that life has presented her.
Delving into her personal experiences within the entertainment industry, Amna openly discussed the issue of colourism. She bravely shared instances where external pressures prompted her to contemplate lightening her skin tone for photoshoots. Emphasizing the importance of embracing one’s natural self, Amna underscored the significance of diversity in casting. She passionately advocated for authentic portrayals, urging a shift towards appreciating and celebrating actors’ unique characteristics rather than conforming to unrealistic standards.
“Reflecting on my speech, where I advocated for the industry to embrace actors and artists as they are, it stemmed from a personal experience of being made two tones lighter in photoshoots,” shared the model. “I used to grapple with insecurities about myself, unaware of such practices until it directly affected me. At home, we all have a natural wheatish complexion. It became disheartening when, in my professional space, where I felt confident and stunning as a model, someone would approach me, applying a white base to alter my appearance. That’s when the self-doubt crept in, making me question, ‘Is there something wrong with me?”
Acceptance Struggles: Amna’s Journey Through Societal Expectations
The ‘Bandish‘ star, eloquently expressed the challenges she has faced in terms of self-acceptance, particularly as a woman navigating societal expectations. She highlighted the pervasive conditioning that, despite our achievements, suggests inadequacy and fosters the belief that certain pursuits are reserved for men. This subtle narrative, she noted, can create a constant struggle for acceptance among women.
She went on to say, “In my personal view, I strongly believe that when a role calls for a specific skin tone, whether it’s dark-skinned or Caucasian white, there exists a diverse market with talented actors suited for that particular role. Instead of altering someone’s natural complexion to fit a character, it’s more prudent to seek out an actor who naturally embodies those characteristics. Perhaps, there’s an actor who is not only fitting for the role but is also exceptionally deserving. I acknowledge the complexity of the decisions we make in the industry, often influenced by an actor’s recognition and established reputation, adding layers to the choices we pursue”.
Amna’s courage in openly sharing her experiences with the world is truly commendable. We all recognize that the showbiz industry is far from a walk in the park. Regardless of how attractive you may be, artists face daily pressures that can be quite challenging. Despite it all, they shine like true stars. We hope the ongoing debate around colourism and the obsession with fair skin comes to an end.
It’s just the beginning of the brand-new year and we are already anticipating an extravaganza of content on both television and cinemas. While we are all geared up for some spin-offs, sequels, and some star-studded fresh TV shows, we expect powerful films to make waves soon. It is indeed a matter of immense pride that we had a healthy 2023 in terms of cinema and films. Have a look at these big titles that we anticipate watching this year in cinema houses.
Wakhri
‘Wakhri’, as the name suggests seems to have a peculiar way of storytelling this time by a female filmmaker. The film is directed by Iram Parveen Bilal and highlights the journey of a female schoolteacher who falls under criticism after posting her honest and blunt opinions on social media. The cast of the film includes Tooba Siddiqui, Faryal Mehmood, Sohail Sameer, and Bakhtawar Mazhar. Wakhri is the first movie of 2024, as it releases on 5 January.
Nayab
Marking the debut of television’s most popular and one of the most versatile actresses Yumna Zaidi opposite the very promising Usama Khan, ‘Nayab‘ is a Sports film that has already become the talk of the town. The trailer and songs released at the end of the previous year have had fans yearning for more of such a delightful and calm narrative. ‘Nayab‘ has a stellar cast including Huma Nawab, Javed Sheikh, Fawad Khan, Adnan Siddiqui, Ehteshamuddin, and a special dance number by Faryal Mehmood. The film is all set for its release on 26 January.
Umro Ayyar – A New Beginning
Who is unaware of the classic fictional tales of Umro Ayyar! Bringing the charismatic world of Umro Ayyar to life, VR Chili Production and Azfar Jafri have created this mesmerizing fantasy film. The film stars Usman Mukhtar, Sanam Saeed, Manzar Sehbai, Faran Tahir, Ali Kazmi, and Adnan Siddiqui. The trailer and posters have already created a buzz due to its refreshing feel which is rarely given by the local performers and filmmakers. The sci-fi fantasy film is expected to be released on Eid-ul-Azha this year.
Aasman Bolay Ga
One of the most anticipated Shoaib Mansoor’s comeback films ABG is also expected to hit the theatre screens this year. The film stars Maya Ali opposite Emmad Irfani along with Fahad Hashmi, Adnan Jaffar, and Asim Bukhari among others. Even though not much has been revealed by the makers and cast of the film, the poster got mixed reviews as it shows a story knitted by the cross-border dynamics of India and Pakistan. There are eyes of ABG as it follows the much talked about Shoaib Mansoor films ‘Khuda Ke Liye’, ‘Bol’, and ‘Verna’. The release date has not been revealed yet however, we hope we get to see the film this year.
Neelofar
A film we all are excited to watch as it brings back the magical chemistry of Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan on screens in a simple and romantic environment. Although we witnessed the blockbuster ‘The Legend of Maula Jatt‘ starring the two, but ‘Neelofar’ is being anticipated for its seemingly simple narrative. The cast of the film includes Madiha Imam, Rashid Farooqi, Navid Shahzad, Samiya Mumtaz, Atiqa Odho, and Behroz Sabzwari. ‘Neelofar‘’s release date has not been revealed yet however, there are high chance that the film will be released later this year.
Rawalpindi Express
Much-awaited biopic of the historical fastest bowler Shoaib Akhtar titled ‘Rawalpindi Express’ is also expected to release this year. Mirza Gohar Rasheed plays the role of Shoaib Akhtar along with a stellar cast who play major names attached to the cricket world. The cast of the film includes Faran Tahir, Saleem Mairaj, Adnan Shah Tipu, Shafqat Cheema, and Omair Rana among others. The film highlights the struggles of Shoaib Akhtar beginning from a small village to becoming a well reputable name in the sports industry.
The Great Gama
Legendary wrestler ‘Gama Pehalwan’ also known as Rustam e Hind is still known for his notable acts of showing strength in the field of wrestling even after decades of his death. It was announced in 2022 that Pakistani writer Nasir Adeeb is working on the script of Gama Pehalwan’s biopic highlighting his extraordinary journey from India’s Amritsar to Lahore till his death in 1960. The film will hopefully get a release date soon as no further details have been announced yet. The film has an international cast and crew including several Pakistani artists.
Abhi
Starring Kubra Khan and Goher Mumtaz, ‘Abhi‘ has also created quite a buzz on social media ever since it was announced. The behind-the-scenes shots of the main leads have fans anticipating the magical chemistry on screen. The cast of the film includes Yasra Rizvi, Mehmood Aslam, Hina Khwaja Bayat, Ehteshamuddin, Asif Raza Mir, and Usman Peerzada among others.
Well, this is what an exciting lineup looks like. If not all, we at least hope to see some of these promising films on screen this year. Tell us which of these films you are excited about the most.
Welcome to the rollercoaster ride that was 2023 — a year filled with jaw-dropping WTF moments and victorious FTW instances that kept the entertainment industry, and our social media feeds, buzzing. From explosive divorces and legal battles to the birth of fresh narratives on the small screen, and Pakistani talent conquering global platforms, it’s been a year of highs and lows. Join us as we revisit the FTW and WTF moments that defined the drama, glamour, and gossip of 2023.
Feroze Khan – Aliza’s divorce fiasco (WTF)
Feroze Khan, having made himself the unofficial poster boy of toxic masculinity in the entertainment industry, had more to offer. Despite his tumultuous divorce with ex-wife Aliza Sultan happening in 2022, the shitstorm also catapulted into 2023. Things took a bizarre turn when the Khaani star, in his usual bombastic fashion, filed a defamation lawsuit against several celebrities and even went as far as to leak their addresses and phone numbers in his complaint.
This ugly turn of events took the legal battles to a whole new level when Muneeb Butt, one of the celebrities affected by this leak, also decided to take the legal route in retaliation. The matter did end up getting resolved between the two and it managed to stay out of court. However, it’s crazy how far this cold war went on for and is a major WTF moment from the year.
Green Entertainment’s 2023 Debut and the End of TV Clichés (FTW)
In 2023, the much-anticipated arrival of Green Entertainment was nothing short of a showbiz comet. After years of fervent anticipation fueled by big industry names, the channel was unveiled. The dramas that followed shattered traditional narratives, bidding farewell to clichés like saas-bahu conflicts and love triangles. Instead, Green Entertainment offered a diverse range of compelling stories addressing themes of classism, corruption, gender equality, morality, and societal norms — that resonated with audiences of all tastes. The Green Entertainment wave has not only swept through screens but has become a defining force, setting a new standard in the drama industry.
Adil Raja vs Pakistani actresses (WTF)
In more disgustingly misogynistic news with more defamation lawsuits, we had ex-Army major Adil Raja proclaiming in a YouTube video that several renowned actresses and models often stayed at ISI safe houses. He alleged that they had carnal relations with several officials and were used as “honey traps” for politicians.
While no one was explicitly named, easily decipherable initials of several actresses were shared. The industry united against him and came to the defence of all the speculated actresses, calling the remarks misogynistic. Kubra Khan, one of the alleged names, even threatened to file a defamation lawsuit.
Urwa Hocane and Farhan Saeed back together (FTW)
In a plot twist sweeter than a rom-com, our beloved celebs, Farhan Saeed and Urwa Hocane, squashed separation rumors and sent fans into a frenzy with a heartwarming reunion on Eid. After a stint of mysterious social media silence and a poker face during Tich Button promotions, the couple unleashed a flood of loved-up pictures on Instagram last year. The cherry on top? They blessed Urhaan enthusiasts with the delightful announcement of expecting their first bundle of joy.
Javed Akhtar: an ungrateful guest (WTF)
Brace yourselves for drama with a capital D as we rewind Javed Akhtar’s visit to Pakistan earlier last year. The Indian screenwriter, poet and lyricist was part of Faiz Festival, which set off fireworks, but not the celebratory kind. A simple question about the Pakistani people’s hospitality catapulted our social media into a rollercoaster ride of drama and chaos. When quizzed about the warmth of Pakistanis, Javed Akhtar responded how their legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar was never hosted by Pakistanis. What was worse was when he insinuated that the bomb attack in Mumbai was done by Pakistanis. The plot thickens. Later, the public got in a state of fury after Javed Akhtar arrived fashionably three hours late, at a party hosted by Ali Zafar the next day. Will we hit ‘skip’ on this drama and ‘next’ to brighter moments, or keep it in the recycle bin of bygones?
Glamorous ‘I Do’s: Celebrity Weddings That Stole the Spotlight in 2023 (FTW)
From surprise nuptials to dreamy celebrations, last year’s celebrity weddings served up glam and romance, leaving us starry-eyed and secretly hoping for a front-row invite to the next fabulous affair. Feeling left out? No worries, we got you.
Amidst the glitz and glamour of 2023, our favourite celebrities decided to say I do in style. Umer Mukhtar opted for a star-studded affair, Madiha Imam and Moji Basar swooned us with an Insta wedding, later throwing a lavish reception in India. Ushna Shah’s union with golfer Hamza Amin brought global flair to the scene. But the pièce de résistance? Mahira Khan’s Bhurban wedding was straight out of a fairy tale. With ethereal vibes and royal splendour, it had us all enchanted.
Nida Yasir’s 1992-2006 World Cup Match Meme (WTF)
Nida Yasir is notorious for getting herself into new controversies all the time and entertaining audiences even at her own expense. So, when she appeared on Shoaib Akhtar’s show, the morning show host gave a gift to all the meme-makers out there.
She was asked “When did Pakistan win the 1992 World Cup?” and the ‘Nadaaniyaan’ star was dumbfounded by the trick question, failing to come up with the answer. The clip went viral, and netizens naturally took to hardcore meme-ing.
Hamza Ali Abbasi makes television comeback (FTW)
Heartthrob Hamza Ali Abbasi made a dazzling comeback to the small screen in 2023 with the drama ‘Jaan-e-Jahan.’ After a rollercoaster of emotions in 2019 when he dropped the bombshell of an entertainment hiatus on YouTube, leaving fans in collective heartbreak, Hamza received a lot of love for his acting in the 2022 blockbuster ‘The Legends of Maula Jatt.’ He’s now back on television reuniting him with Pyarey Afzal co-star Ayeza Khan. Clearly, the man knows how to keep us guessing and eagerly anticipating his next move.
Tere Bin’s OST and Rape Scene Controversy (WTF)
Ever heard of the ‘’Tere Bin’ Effect’? Move over James Bond, there’s a new influence in town. With billions of views and being the most-discussed drama in Pakistan and garnering unwavering recognition abroad, it does not serve us right if we do not have ‘Tere Bin’ on this list.
Shani Arshad’s ‘Tere Bin’ OST took the town by storm, setting the stage for a rollercoaster drama ride. It wasn’t just the catchy lyrics that caught everyone’s attention; the show left our jaws dropped in a cliffhanger moment. The plot then took an unexpected detour, diving into a shockingly controversial promo where Pakistan’s Mr. Darcy aka Murtasim Khan was depicted having raped his wife. We still cannot decide if the change in the plot and reshot scenes were better following the criticism received after the promo. Was it better to save the reputation of our beloved Murtasim Khan or ‘Tere Bin’ itself? Dear readers, help us decide.
Ali Sethi at Coachella (FTW)
Ali Sethi took the stage at the Coachella music and art festival in 2023. He appeared for the second weekend of the festival and sang to a packed tent. While the Mughal angrakha he donned did not go over too well with netizens, the event was a huge win for inclusion overall. “No representation without inclusion.” proclaimed the singer in an Instagram post. He also performed his mega hit song Pasoori at the event which just as big at the event as well.
Pasoori in an Indian movie (WTF)
Bollywood’s love affair with remakes struck again in 2023, and this time, Ali Sethi and Shae Gill’s hit ‘Pasoori’ were the victims. The song got a Bollywood makeover for the movie ‘Satyaprem Ki Katha’ starring Kartik Aaryan and Kiara Advani, but the magic of the original proved irreplaceable. Pakistani netizens weren’t shy about expressing their collective disappointment, reminding everyone that sometimes, you just can’t beat the classic vibes.
Pregnancy announcements (FTW)
Celebrity baby bumps were the real stars of social media in 2023, and we were here for it! From Aiman Khan and Sarwat Gillani expanding their adorable families to Minal Khan, Mariam Ansari, Urwa Hocane, and Zara Noor Abbas Siddiqui announcing to stepping into the world of parenthood — these celebs not only brought joy but also flooded our feeds with happy tears and cheerful vibes. Who knew baby announcements could be this heartwarming?
Naimal Khawar’s alleged cosmetic surgery creates a social media storm (WTF)
As a nation we cannot help but stop poking our noses in someone’s business, can we? The desi gossip aunty in us resides waiting for the right moment where we can give our judgement and then say “sanu ki” (not our business). Naimal Khawar inadvertently found herself in the limelight of social media scrutiny when her recent cosmetic surgeries became our prime-time gossip. After pictures got released from a brand photoshoot, our nation’s rumour mill set into overdrive. Suddenly, it was open season for opinions and a nationwide debate on personal choices. But let’s be real, she looks just as stunning as ever. Ah, we do have a flair for dramatics.
Vasay Chaudhry exits ‘Mazaaq Raat’ after 7 Years; Imran Ashraf steps into the host’s shoes (FTW)
Vasay Chaudhry bid farewell to Mazaaq Raat this year, a show he hosted for seven years. Despite the sad goodbye to the beloved host, excitement resurged when Imran Ashraf was announced as the show’s new host.
Audiences have fallen in love with ‘Ranjha Ranjha Kardi’ star due to his numerous highly acclaimed performances over the years, so this news came as a delight for fans.
Pakistani artists shine on the global stage (FTW)
Brace yourselves for how Pakistani artists have gained international recognition for the country. Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy is smashing ceilings and taking names. The Academy Award-winning director and journalist is about to light up the ‘Star Wars’ universe, becoming the first woman of color to direct a ‘Star Wars’ film. Jedi Master Rey’s story gets a new chapter, and we are anticipating the magic on-screen.
But wait, there’s more! ‘In Flames’, a Pakistani-Canadian horror flick directed by Zarrar Kahn, hit Cannes with a fiery world premiere. This spine-chilling film’s been turning heads at the 76th Annual Cannes Film Festival, rocking the screens and earning its spot at the prestigious Director’s Fortnight. Keep it coming, folks.
First Pakistani drama coming on Netflix – ‘Jo Bachay Hain Sang Samait Lo’ (FTW)
Brace yourselves for a wave of Pakistani talent on Netflix! The much-anticipated original series, ‘Jo Bachay Hain Sang Samait Lo,’ is set to mark our country’s debut on the global streaming platform. The star-studded lineup includes Fawad Khan, Mahira Khan, Sanam Saeed, and Ahad Raza Mir in leading roles, with a powerhouse ensemble featuring Hamza Ali Abbasi, Bilal Ashraf, Maya Ali, Iqra Aziz, Hania Aamir, Khushaal Khan, Nadia Jamil, Omair Rana, and Samina Ahmed. We can’t wait for this saga.
And there you have it, — a year that kept us on the edge of our seats, oscillating between “What on earth?” and “Yes, please!” As the curtains fall on 2023, we’re left with a whirlwind of memories — the unforgettable, the eyebrow-raising, and the downright astonishing. From the courtroom dramas of celebrities to the heartwarming reunions that melted our hearts, 2023 has etched its mark in the annals of showbiz history. we eagerly await the next act, curious to see what surprises and spectacles the future holds for our beloved entertainment industry. Until then, here’s to a year of us anticipating more riveting tales. Team Galaxy Lollywood wishes you a joyful new year!
