Actor Faysal Quraishi wants to restore the splendor of Pakistani cinema but has an unusual plan to do so.
In an interview the veteran performer gave to Independent Urdu, he talked about the film industry in Pakistan and how it can be revived. “I am a very patriotic person,” he said. However, he emphasized that to make Pakistani cinema thrive, it’s crucial to screen Bollywood films in theaters. “I know that our people want to watch Bollywood movies in Pakistan, so we cannot impose our will on them.”
The actor mused about building good relationships with India, stating that, “We got a great opportunity to work in India. However, due to political tensions and conflicts, those paths closed, and we often shut down routes that bring money to our country.”
Popular Pakistani actress Mehwish Hayat, known for her roles in hit movies like ‘Jawaani Phir Nahi Aani’ and ‘Punjab Nahi Jaon Ga’, has taken her talent to the global stage. She’s now part of Marvel Studios’ ‘Miss Marvel’, gaining admiration for her outstanding performance.
Hayat is expanding her career further by establishing her own production house in the UK. Her goal is to showcase Pakistani culture on the international stage.
In a delightful development, Mehwish Hayat is teaming up with famous designer HSY for an upcoming telefilm. Fans are excited about their on-screen chemistry, evident in the recently released trailer, which has everyone waiting with baited breath for the venture to hit our screens.
Aymen Saleem and her husband Kamran Malik, who recently got married, have released wedding photos of the gorgeous ceremonies.
Photos of former national cricket team player Saleem Yusuf’s daughter arr adorning social media on the photo and video sharing platform Instagram.
At the mayon, held on December 27 at the actress’s maternal uncle’s house in Karachi, the actress wore floral jewelry and light makeup, complemented by a yellow gharara. Her groom, chose a matching yellow kurta and white pajama for the occasion.
The former cricketer also wore the same outfit as his son-in-law in Mayun’s ceremony, while his wife and the mother of the bride were seen in orange dresses.
Pictures of the engagement that took place on December 14 were revealed in which the actress wore a red gown by an Indian designer. Later, pictures of her Dholki in Karachi were also revealed.
Jhoom gained acclaim for its story about love, passion and drama. Aryaan falls in love with Maryam, a successful doctor.
Zara Noor Abbas and Haroon Kadwani, the actors, did a great job showing the loneliness and pain in their characters’ lives. People really liked their performances, and that’s one reason why the show became so popular.
2.Wahaj Ali and Yumna Zaidi in Tere Bin
Wahaj Ali and Yumna Zaidi, who play Murtasim and Meerub in Tere Bin, are like the kings and queens of great on-screen chemistry. When they act together, it’s like magic. People all around the world are crazy about their sweet love story and the special spark they share. It’s like they were made for each other in the world of TV shows.
3.Khushhal Khan and Dananeer Mobeen in Muhabbat Gumshuda Meri
Khushhal Khan and Dananeer Mobeen, as Saim and Zubia in Muhabbat Gumshuda Meri, showcase relatable goals for young couples. Though the plot of Muhabbat Gumshuda Meri isn’t unique, the story feels fresh, portraying real-life struggles and mistakes. Audiences love the on-screen pair’s moments as they navigate mixed feelings and discover what they want in life and each other.
4.Hamza Sohail and Sehar Khan In Fairy Tale
Hamza Sohail and Sehar Khan, the breakout couple from Fairy Tale, are all the buzz of 2023. Hamza’s rapid rise to fame in Pakistan is remarkable. The Umeed and Farjaat dynamic, an enemies-to-lovers tale, is captivating audiences. In the story, 20-year-old Umeed, a chai-loving dreamer, clashes with grumpy CEO Farjaat on a game show in Islamabad. Their evolving chemistry and unique perspectives have made them the most talked-about on-screen couple this year.
5.Haji Mushtaq and Sabeena Farooq in Kabli Pulao
Haji Mushtaq and Sabeena Farooq, the standout pair from Kabli Pulao, are the talk of 2023. Kabli Pulao takes a daring turn with the unique love story of Afghan refugee Barbeena (Sabeena Farooq) and middle-aged Pakistani bachelor Haji Mushtaq. The actors skillfully portray the unusual pairing, infusing freshness into the narrative. Sabeena Farooq’s exceptional performance, embracing the Pashto accent, and on-screen chemistry with director Kashif Nisar make for a captivating and impactful drama.
Here are some of the songs and artists Pakistanis enjoyed in 2023:
1.Kaifi Khalil
The 27-year-old Kana Yaari singer was right at the top of the charts with his smash romantic melody ‘Mujhay Pyaar Hua’.
Even though the track was released in 2022 and was the theme song for ARY Digital drama serial, Mujhe Pyar Hua Tha; it remained as one of the most listened tracks in 2023 and relieved recognition across and beyond Pakistan.
He also released a new track in 2023 called Mansoob which has more than 4,700,000 listens on Spotify.
2.Abdul Hannan
In collaboration with Shahmeer Raza Khan, Abdul Hannan released an EP called Diya. Other singles included Raabta and Kehdena featuring Annural Khalid and ChillBazaar.
However, his songs from the former year remained Pakistan’s favourite as Iraaday and Bikhra (both in collaboration with Rovalio) were among Spotify’s top tracks in Pakistan.
3.Natasha Noorani
The ever-talented Natasha Noorani released her debut LP, Ronaq, in 2023 – a groovy, electro vibe.
4.Singers beyond borders
Indo-Canadian, AP Dhillon’s With You charted among the most listened songs in Pakistan. This was not only because of its lyrics and vibe, but also because of its cute music video featuring the singer Banita Sandhu.
Likewise, Shubh, Indian rapper-singer based in Canada, also took over the charts with his song, One Love. His album called Still Rollin featuring the famous song, Cheques, was also released.
5.Hasan Raheem
Our favourite, Hasan Raheem released his EP in September. Its track list includes the song, Wishes featuring Umair and Talwiinder – which everyone is vibing to these days!
Most listened Pakistani songs:
Wishes Hasan Raheem, Umair, Talha Anjum
‘Kahani Suno 2.0’ by Kaifi Khalil
‘Bikhra’ by Abdul Hannan, Rovalio
4.‘Sukoon’ by Hassan & Roshaan, Shae Gill
Left Right by Ali Sethi, Abdullah Siddiqui, Maanu, Shae Gill
An accountability court in Islamabad granted a six-day physical remand for former federal minister Fawad Chaudhry on Saturday in connection with a case involving misappropriation in construction projects in Jhelum.
The court noted that the case investigation should be concluded, ensuring Fawad’s access to his legal counsel. The ex-minister is scheduled to appear in court on January 5, 2024.
Fawad was taken into custody earlier this month by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) in connection with the corruption case. NAB Chairman Lt-Gen (retd) Nazir Ahmed Butt authorized the issuance of an arrest warrant for the politician. Subsequently, the individual was suspended from Adiala jail, where they were already held in connection with a separate fraud case.
The former minister’s lawyer and brother, Faisal Chaudhry, and NAB Prosecutor Sohail Arif were also present in the courtroom.
A person from Mumbai has complained to the local police about Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor, claiming that he and his family offended religious feelings in a popular video of their Christmas celebration.
The complaint alleges that the star violated religious sentiments in a viral video showing the family celebrating Christmas. In the video, the Kapoor family poured liquor on a cake before setting it on fire, with Ranbir uttering “Jai Mata Di.”
The complaint alleges that the star violated religious sentiments in a viral video showing the family celebrating Christmas. In the video, the Kapoor family poured liquor on a cake before setting it on fire, with Ranbir uttering “Jai Mata Di.”
According to reports, the complainant claims that using intoxicants and chanting religious slogans from another faith during the celebration was disrespectful. The complainant states that in Hinduism, the fire god is invoked before other deities. As of now, no FIR has been registered in the case. The video, captured during the Kapoor family’s annual Christmas lunch, gained significant attention on the internet.
Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt introduced their infant daughter Raha to the paparazzi during the same event. The couple posed for photographs with their little one upon arriving for the family gathering.
Tere Bin has gained immense popularity, winning the hearts of millions worldwide. Its engaging storyline and outstanding performances have made a lasting impact on audiences, creating a remarkable presence in the entertainment landscape. As the highly popular drama nears its conclusion, fans are preparing to bid a bittersweet farewell to the beloved characters of Murtasim and Meerab.
To celebrate anniversary of Tere Bin season one, the star of the show Wahaj Ali. took to Instagram and announced,
Alhamdulillah the most awaited announcement of the year is finally here… Your all time favourite couple Yumna Zaidi & Wahaj Ali the one & only #Yumhaj with their unmatched on-screen chemistry are back with a bang in Tere Bin Season 2…
Rakhi Sawant is not going to let people’s opinions stop her from leading her best life.
The Bollywood actress has said that she will keep getting married until she finds the right life partner.
The Indian dancer who performed Umrah a few months ago, has gone to court to divorce businessman Adil Khan Durrani. In an interview she said that she wants the marriage ended as soon as possible so that she can get married again.
A clip from the interview has gone viral on social media. “I hopes the court will give me back my money and also a divorce so that I can marry a good guy again in the future and live my life in peace.”
Rakhi expressed her intention to marry again and again, stating, “I will stay married until I die until I find the right life partner, till then I will continue to love because this is my life, I have only one life.”
She continued, “If you go to Hollywood, you’ll see people marrying multiple times, numerous boyfriends, and relationships, and it doesn’t matter there. All the boundaries are only in India.” At the beginning of this year, news came out that Rakhi Sawant has married Adil Khan Durrani after accepting Islam last year. Adil denied the marriage, then went silent before finally admitting to the marriage. However, with the death of Rakhi’s mother, the news of problems in her marriage began to circulate. Rakhi approached the court for divorce citing Adil Khan’s affairs, physical violence, indecent videos and disputes over money.
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.
