Director Kashif Nisar recently shared his experiences working with some of the most talented actors in the entertainment industry and Bollywood.
During his appearance as a guest on ‘Iffar Omar’s Say It All’ podcast, Nisar discussed his desire to collabroate with Alia Bhatt and Fawad Khan when asked whom he would like to work with.
“My heart really wants to work with Alia Bhatt. She has such energy, and the way she carries herself is truly impressive. She understands the script well and knows how to embody a character. She knows which expression to use and can switch them on in a split second; she is highly intelligent,” he said.
When asked about his favourite performance by Alia, Nisar said, “Somewhere in this world, when it comes to holding a character, she commands the screen presence; even in a small role, some people have that special presence.”
Talking about the male actor he wants to work with, the Ranjha Ranjha Kardi director said, “It would be Fawad Khan. I really wanted to work with him, but I never got the chance.”
When the host asked, “Which of your works do you like the most?” Nisar replied, “I don’t like any of my work because when I look at it after six months, it feels off. The project I enjoyed the most recently was ‘Kabli Pulao.’ I enjoyed working with Sohail Sahab in Jeevan Nagar after a long time, and I also really enjoyed ‘Mann Jogi.’ I love working on these types of projects.”
Kashif Nisar has directed a number of dramas, including Faseel-e-Jaan Se Aagay, Mein, O Rangreza, Raqeeb Se, Jeevan Nagar, Kabli Pulao, and most recently, he directed Mann Jogi, which aired on HUM TV.
Hum TV is gearing up to captivate Pakistani television audiences with its latest drama series, ‘Mann Jogi,’ helmed by renowned director Kashif Nisar. The stellar cast, including Bilal Abbas Khan, Sabeena Farooq, and Mirza Gohar Rasheed, has already sparked immense anticipation among fans eagerly awaiting its premiere.
Written by the acclaimed Zafar Mairaj and directed by Kashif Nisar, known for their collaboration on ‘Kabli Pulao,’ expectations are high for their ability to craft compelling narratives and deliver exceptional storytelling.
Produced under the guidance of visionary director and producer Sultana Siddiqui, ‘Mann Jogi’ promises a fresh perspective and engaging storyline. The recently unveiled first look featuring Bilal Abbas Khan has further piqued curiosity, setting the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable viewing experience.
Adding another layer of excitement, Sabeena Farooq makes her singing debut with the drama’s OST, collaborating with Sahir Ali Bagga to create a soul-stirring soundtrack that resonates deeply with listeners.
Mirza Gohar Rasheed’s portrayal of Shabbir in ‘Mann Jogi’ has already become a topic of speculation among fans. With his versatile acting skills, viewers are eager to uncover the depths of his character and the role he will play in the unfolding drama.
Say a word of thanks to the producers, writers and directors who decided to make dramas that were truly worth our while. They left us hooked, laughing and crying along with beloved characters.
Check out the best of Pakistani dramas from this year.
1. Jannat Se Aagay
Writer: Shah Yasir Director: Haseeb Hassan Channel: Geo Entertainment
Jannat Se Aagay digs into the complexities of identity and personal aspirations, focusing on Jannat and Tabassum, two young women from different backgrounds trying to discover themselves in a complicated world.
The drama stands out for its compelling storyline, unpredictable script, and engaging narrative. While not flawless for die-hard Umera Ahmed fans, it’s recommended for its entertainment value, script quality, and performances. The return of Umera Ahmed adds to the anticipation, making Jannat Se Aagay a noteworthy entry in the world of Pakistani dramas in 2023.
2. Shannas
Writer: Adarsh Ayaz Director: Yasra Rizvi Channel: Green Entertainment
Shanaas was a unique addition to our screens this year, featuring unconventional content. It follows Aneesa (Hajra Yamin), who discovers that she was adopted as a child. The drama unfolds as Aneesa navigates a journey to find her biological parents, encountering various characters tied to her past. Addressing adoption and class differences, the script, along with exceptional performances by Hajra Yamin, Sania Saeed, Shamim Hilaly, Yasra Rizvi, and others, handles the sensitive topics with care. An honest effort by the writer, director, and actors makes “Shanaas” a must-watch, delving into a sensitive subject in a thoughtful and tasteful manner.
3. Kabli Pulao
Writer: Zafar Mairaj Director: Kashif Nisar Channel: Green Entertainment
The sensational Kabli Pulao aired on Green Entertainment, immediately cementing itself as a contender for the best series of 2023, not only for its compelling narrative but also for the network, sparking anticipation for future content. An unlikely romance between Haji Mushtaq (Muhammad Ehteshamuddin) and Barbeena (Sabeena Farooq), an Afghan refugee widow, the drama delves into their unconventional love story, exploring the challenges of cross-cultural relationships. Ehteshamuddin’s portrayal captivates with depth, and Farooq’s acting keeps viewers eagerly anticipating each episode.
The drama’s commitment to shedding light on refugee struggles offers a refreshing departure from mainstream storytelling. A seamless blend of a compelling storyline and outstanding performances, “Kabli Pulao” stands out as one of the best stories of 2023.
4. Fairy Tale
Writer: Sarah Majeed Director: Ali Hasan Channel: HUM TV
Fairytale is the firm fan favourite on the list, the story of Umeed’s life—a happy, imperfect young girl with a modern perspective. Despite embracing typical romance tropes, the drama’s light approach resonated so well with young Pakistanis that a second season was created, deviating from the initial plan. Fairytale’s characters are immensely fun, and the chemistry between the heroine and the hero is what keeps the show alive.
5. Muhabbat Gumshuda Meri
Writer: Rahat Jabeen Director: Shahid Shafaat Channel: HUM TV
Ranked number 1 in the 5 Best Pakistani Dramas of 2023, Muhabbat Gumshuda Meri stands out with its crisp storyline. Initially underrated, the drama gained momentum as it progressed, proving to be the most romantic series. Dana Nair impressively portrays the role of an amateur girl experiencing love, capturing expressions and comments perfectly. Khushal Khan, akin to a desi Romeo and Juliet, acts vibrantly, overshadowing with genuine emotion. The drama showcases a passionate love story, making it a standout in the realm of Pakistani dramas.
Yumna Zaidi has hit back at the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) for their notice on Dil Na Umeed Toh Nahi (DNUTN), saying “we cannot make saas-bahu dramas only.”
Speaking to BBC Urdu, Yumna said that she doesn’t understand why PEMRA would take notice on her ongoing drama’s content.
“I was very disappointed [with PEMRA’s notice],” said Yumna. “I don’t understand what they want to promote [or show on television].”
“If we don’t talk about problems faced by people in government schools, gali mohallas or in the villages, then we’re only going to listen to bad news. If we force society to think about [such issues] through such content, then at least let it through instead of holding it back.”
“We cannot make saas-bahu dramas only,” lamented the actor further. “We make romantic dramas also. Different genres are given space [on television]. So this [DNUTN] should also be given a small space.”
Directing her comments towards PEMRA, Zaidi said: “I just want to ask PEMRA: ‘How can you do this?’”
The actor further said: “Other projects of mine have also previously received notices from PEMRA [Pyaar Ke Sadkay] but this one hurt more. It should not have happened. I was not happy with that.”
“Matlab kyun?,” she questioned, referring to the drama as a “very special project”.
Featuring Yasra Rizvi, Wahaj Ali, Nadia Afgan, Naumaan Ijaz, Omair Rana and Samiya Mumtaz besides Zaidi in the lead, Dil Na Umeed Toh Nahi is a harrowing tale of child abuse and human trafficking in Pakistan. The drama has been written by Amna Mufti and directed by Kashif Nisar and is a Kashf Foundation Presentation.
According to a press release issued earlier, Dil Na Umeed Toh Nahi will “bring some of the most heinous and deeply sensitive issues to light – while showing how humanity can still prevail in even the most insurmountable of situations.
The press release further said: “With three parallel stories on prostitution, human trafficking, and child abuse, the drama exposes the lowest ebb of our society.”
Meanwhile, while talking about her character in the drama, Yumna said that she plays a prostitute and while shooting for the party scenes, she was very grateful that this wasn’t her “real life”.
“The feeling was so haunting. And I felt so sorry for those women who are entrapped in such lives,” said the actor. “But I am happy that I am portraying the character of such a woman, who fights the system and breaks free.”
