Former Pakistani actress Noor Bukhari, is all set to venture into politics. She has joined the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) and has submitted papers for a reserved seat for women.
Noor personally visited the Punjab Election Commission office to confirm her nomination papers. The verification process for her papers has been successfully completed.
As this year ends, we’ve picked the most controversial dramas of 2023, a tough job since so many serials keep throwing out objectionable stories. These dramas stood out in the sea of shows, focusing on themes like marriage and family conflicts. They’ve earned recognition for capturing large audiences and getting top ratings but also angered parts of the audience with misogynistic or sexist content.
Here’s the list for the most controversial dramas of 2023:
Writer: Sana Fahad
Director: Meesam Naqvi
Channel: ARY Digital
Mayi Ri, aired on ARY Digital, created waves in the drama scene, garnering attention, criticism, while also generating significant discussion. Considered a game-changer, it proved pivotal for stars like Aina Asif and Samar Jaffry, and marking a significant comeback for Maya Khan. While anticipated to address child marriage issues, the drama’s controversial content led to divided opinions. Despite criticism, the drama amassed a massive fan following defending its storyline against perceived problems.
2. Jurm
Writer: Sana Fahad
Director: Mehreen Jabbar
Channel: Geo Entertainment
Jurm was another mini-series this year which cannot be overlooked. It was the first mini-series of its kind which had it all – drama and mystery. Jurm also marked Mehreen Jabbar’s comeback to television and she made her presence felt in a way that only she can.
The story follows a newlywed couple deeply in love, willing to go to any lengths for each other. Their happiness takes a hit when Wahaj is attacked by thugs, and his wife gets kidnapped. Despite Wahaj appearing innocent due to his injuries, suspicions arise suggesting his possible involvement in the abduction of his wife. However, Jurm’s underwhelming end was the worst part of the series.
3. Jaisay Aapki Marzi
Writer: Naila Jaffri
Director: Saba Hameed
Channel: ARY Digital
Jaisay Aapki Marzi is a current favorite among viewers. It’s not just a show earning good ratings; many women, in particular, find it relatable. Unlike other dramas, it strikes a chord with the audience, connecting with their experiences and resonating with their lives.The story of drama revolves around Aleezay’s journey. She dreams of a successful career and living life on her terms but succumbs to parental pressure, marrying Sheheryar.
The plot unfolds as Aleezay grapples with a harsh reality—a marriage into a family dominated by abusive clinical narcissists.Despite some repetitive elements, it remains engaging, particularly when approached without a critical perspective. Mikaal Zulfiqar and Kiran Naz’s performances receive praise for their exceptional quality.
4. Hadsa
Writer: Zanjabeel Asim
Director: Wajahat Rauf
Channel: Geo Entertainment
Hadsa, the story of a rape survivor, landed in a perfect social media storm. Critics alleged that the serial insensitively portrayed a sensitive and distressing subject. Rape is a serious issue, and it’s crucial for media outlets and creators to consult with experts and survivor advocacy groups when tackling such topics. The drama, aired on Geo, left many expressing discomfort due to its perceived mishandling of the sensitive subject and its resemblance to a real-life horrific incident on the motorway in 2020. Supporters said that the drama highlights struggle and bravery of a rape survivor who fights against sexual violence.
5. Tere Bin
Writer: Nooran Makhdoom
Director: Siraj-ul-Haq
Channel: Geo Entertainment
Tere Bin has gained immense popularity, winning the hearts of millions worldwide. Its engaging storyline and outstanding performances have made a lasting impact on television, creating a remarkable presence in the entertainment landscape. As the highly popular Pakistani drama Tere Bin nears its conclusion, fans are preparing to bid a bittersweet farewell to the beloved characters of Murtasim and Meerab. Meerab and Murtasim, childhood friends, experience separation when Meerab is forced into a marriage she doesn’t want. After years apart, they reunite, and their bond evolves into love.
The series explores themes of love, separation, and the chance for a fresh start.But a surprise allusion to a marital rape scene cast a negative light on the chemistry between the lead cast. The shocking scenes stirred heated reactions on social media, with Tere Bin trending on Twitter. People voiced their concerns to the makers, questioning the decision to include such content at a time when women in Asian nations are already grappling with domestic violence issues.
Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) senior leader Khawaja Asif has sent a defamation notice of Rs 1 billion to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Usman Dar and his mother.
According to the notice, Dar and his mother, Rehana Dar, made false allegations to defame the PML-N leader, asking them to pay Rs 1 billion within 14 days.
Both the leaders belong to Sialkot and have contested elections against each other from the National Assembly’s NA-73 constituency. Khawaja Asif has defeated Dar in the match up.
After a police raid on Dar’s house earlier this month, Rehana Dar alleged that the former federal minister was behind the operation, stating in a video statement that cops forcefully entered into her residence, physically tortured her, and pulled her hair.
“When they heard that I was submitting my nomination papers, they [Asif] sent 20 people to my house,” she claimed.
The PML-N leader also said while speaking on Geo News’ programme “Capital Talk” on December 20 that Usman Dar wants to restore his reputation after quitting politics.
The uber popular ‘Mannat Murad’ is Geo’s latest hit with a fervent following. People are especially invedted because it stars Iqra Aziz and Talha Chahour together, both firm fan favourites.
The show is about problems in a big family and how sometimes people end up in marriages they didn’t really want. A preview for the next episode has everyone talking. Murad slaps Mannat to make his mom happy, and then Mannat slaps him back.
Yes, you read that right.
The scene has generated a lot of buzz on social media.
Here is how people are reacting to Murad and Mannat slapping each other:
Some celebrated Mannat standing up for herself and wished it would happen in real life.
Reality of how unforgiving society is towards women, making 100 excuses for men, regardless of “class.” Murad hits Mannat, it’s acceptable. She hits him, he’s disgraced. Mannat’s own family is equally appalled. #MannatMurad highlights troubling double standards. #PakistaniDramas pic.twitter.com/OoCLetXXUe
— SophiaQ (@SophiaAQ) December 26, 2023
Murad ko wo bolna chahiy tha jo wo actual mn sochta hy, na k sirf mannat ki good books mn aa kr accept hony k liy #MannatMurad pic.twitter.com/Io2ZJRJOSq
— Zainab (@i_Zainabb) December 26, 2023
One of the drama which seriously needs to be checked before airing is #MannatMurad .. what a girl was Mannat before marriage and what Murad has made her ..
Ps – whenever I see murad he gets on my nerves pic.twitter.com/VjF2BnWjfW
— Tanzeem (@simply_tanz) December 19, 2023
What Back to Back Slapping .
Murad Slapped Mannat
Mannat Slapped Murad #MannatMurad pic.twitter.com/aOxn3NLcw6— selvia Zaman (@ZamanSelvia) December 26, 2023
This man right there is the not just red flag but he’s a red freaking carpet, this drama is depicting the harsh reality of married life so beautifully.#mannatmurad #thestreamers #slapforslap@HarPalGeoTv pic.twitter.com/xOowuq9Atg
— Minhal Amjad (@minhal_amjad) December 26, 2023
Violence is sadly a common sight in Pakistani dramas, and often, it’s women who bear the brunt of it. While we don’t endorse violence, it was a relief to witness a woman standing up for herself.
It’s crucial to understand that violence doesn’t solve problems, and it’s wrong no matter who is involved.
It will be intriguing to see how ‘Mannat Murad’ addresses this issue and whether Mannat will be treated the same way male characters typically are when they resort to violence against their wives.
South Korean actor Lee Sun-kyun, best known for his role in the Oscar-winning film “Parasite”, was found dead Wednesday, police said. He was 48.
The actor was found inside a vehicle parked on the street in Seoul’s mid-northern Seongbuk district, an official from the Seongbuk police station told AFP.
“We believe his body has now been transferred to the Seoul National University Hospital,” he added.
South Korea’s Yonhap news agency reported, citing police, that Lee had left a “note that reads like a will”.
Lee had been under police investigation over his alleged use of marijuana and other drugs.
Once celebrated for his wholesome image, local news outlets reported that the actor was being dropped from television and commercial projects following the scandal.
A graduate of South Korea’s prestigious Korea National University of Arts, Lee made his acting debut in 2001 in a television sitcom titled “Lovers”.
He later won acclaim for his performances in a variety of roles, including a charismatic chef and a genius neuroscientist who is incapable of empathy.
Lee received widespread critical acclaim for his performance in the 2018 TV drama series “My Mister”, for his portrayal of a diligent architectural engineer who, despite facing personal turmoil, steadfastly upheld his sense of responsibility as both an adult and a professional.
Globally, he is best known for his portrayal of the wealthy and shallow patriarch in director Bong Joon-ho’s 2019 Oscar-winning film “Parasite”.
He was also recognised for his performances in romance flicks, such as 2007 TV drama “Coffee Prince” and the 2012 film “All About My Wife”.
His last film, this year’s horror flick “Sleep” — in which he played a husband whose sleepwalking eventually leads to terrifying circumstances — was well-received and featured in the Critics’ Week section at the Cannes festival.
Devastated fans expressed their grief on social media, with one user writing on X: “I laughed and cried a lot while watching your acting. Thank you.”
Renowned Korean-American writer Min Jin Lee joined others in expressing their condolences.
“Lee was praiseworthy in ‘Parasite’ and exceptional in ‘My Mister,’” she wrote on Instagram.
“May he be remembered for his excellent work and creative gifts.”
Lee’s reputation suffered a significant blow when South Korean authorities launched an investigation into his alleged drug use in October.
He had been suspected of using illicit drugs at the residence of a hostess employed at a high-end bar in Seoul’s glamorous Gangnam district.
According to Yonhap, the actor asserted that he was “tricked” by the hostess into consuming the drugs and was unaware of their illegal nature.
From December 23 to 24, he attended his third police investigation session, which lasted 19 hours, Yonhap reported.
He briefly spoke to reporters in late October before entering a police station in Incheon to meet with investigators.
“I sincerely apologise for causing great disappointment to many people by being involved in such an unpleasant incident,” he said at the time.
“I feel sorry for my family, which is enduring such difficult pain at this moment.
“Once again, I sincerely apologise to everyone.”
South Korea has extremely tough laws on illegal drugs, with Koreans who take drugs such as marijuana legally abroad risking prosecution upon returning to their home country.
Lee is survived by his wife, actress Jeon Hye-jin and two sons.
Bollywood stars Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor’s daughter, Raha, made her first public appearance during the Kapoor family’s annual Christmas dinner, enthralling the paparazzi gathered outside.
The internet went wild in seconds, captivated by Raha’s adorable charm. Her blue-eyed gaze at left everyone enchanted.
Netizens immediately noticed a strong resemblance between Raha Kapoor and her aunt, Ranbir’s cousin, Kareena Kapoor Khan. Others saw traces of her great-grandfather, Bollywood showman Raj Kapoor and her grandfather Rishi Kapoor, in her face. Yet others pointed out similarities with both her parents.
One Reddit user shared a post with a collage of Raj Kapoor and Raha’s eyes. The caption read, “Those Raj Kapoor eyes – Raha Kapoor.” Another user of the site shared a collage of Raha and Kareena Kapoor Khan’s childhood photos. The caption read, “Kareena’s childhood pics and Raha!”
It seems that these opinions crossed over on social media platforms. Even on X, one user shared, “Raha got the eyes of Raj Kapoor.” Yet another X user shared a collage indicating that Raha has grandfather Rishi Kapoor’s eyes and aunt Kareena’s face.
Raha got the cutest facial features#AliaBhatt #RanbirKapoor pic.twitter.com/pBVboYZqQN
— Sia⋆ (@siappaa_) December 25, 2023
Rapper Macklemore, a vocal supporter of the Palestine cause, has again reiterated support for Gaza during a concert in Seattle on December 21 at the Climate Pledge Arena. Before this, Macklemore had been on a successful tour in the United States and Europe for his new album ‘Ben’.
He began with his famous song ‘Thrift Shop’ and another one from his latest album. Then, he talked about the ongoing Israeli assault on Gaza and expressed his support for a free Palestine. Macklemore has been supporting this cause throughout the war. During the concert, he dedicated about four minutes to speak about the situation, using a style that resembled a poem.
This isn’t the first time Macklemore has spoken out about the Gaza conflict. He had addressed the issue during a large protest in Washington D.C.
#macklemore speech in washington DC protests to support #Palestine #IsraelTerrorists #Netenyahu_is_Terrorist #GazaBleedingWorldSleeping #GazaCeasefire #Gaza_Geniocide #GazaHolocaust #Gaza_under_attack #GazaGenoside #GazaHolocaust #GazaHolocaust pic.twitter.com/JJ8UK7RJo2
— workplanix (@workplanix) November 6, 2023
“There isn’t a drop of antisemitic thought in my head or my blood. Never again means never again for all. Have we not learned the lessons?”
“I love my Jewish brothers and sisters so much and my perspective is one that’s saying ‘Free Palestine’ is also rooted in your protection.”
Macklemore didn’t hesitate to say that the attacks in Gaza are a genocide.
“I want every soul in this arena to feel the reflection of love, but there’s innocent humans out in Gaza getting murdered with our dollars and those precious human lives are an extension of us.
“The word genocide is such a point of contention for some. And it’s more hurtful than seeing dead babies getting pulled out of the crumbled cement and the dust. Comparative suffering leads to believing the lie: there’s a them and there’s a us.”
He continued,
“At some point, we drew lines in the mud based on the color of our skin, the Gods we worshipped, and the Divine up above. And historically, we’ve exploited black and brown bodies to climb up the rungs, but the ladder doesn’t work when it depends on the oppression of some.”
Macklemore’s speech had even more significance because he spoke at the end of a big world tour and in his hometown of Seattle, in front of a huge crowd.
“When I say ‘Free Palestine’, it’s not because I’m against anyone, it actually means we should protect everyone. It means equality for all, respect, peace, and love. It means a right to exist regardless of what sector you’re from,” Macklemore said.
At the end of his speech, the artist shared a simple message, and the thousands of fans in the 18,000-capacity arena cheered loudly.
“And imma say it till I die, with my chest to the sky. Free Palestine, the message is love.”
In 2023, Pakistan’s TV drama music has been fantastic! The dramas themselves may have been hit or miss, but the music was always spot on. Let’s check out the best music from Pakistani dramas in 2023.
Top Pakistani Dramas OST List
1. Tere Bin
OST Name: Tere bin
Channel: Geo Entertainment
Singer: Shani Arshad
Lyrics: Sabir Zafar
Youtube :Views: 78 Million
The beautiful music from the TV show ‘Tere Bin’ expresses the emotions and passion of the story. Shani Arshad’s singing is amazing and heartfelt, and it perfectly matches the on-screen connection between Murtasim (played by Wahaj Ali) and Meerub (played by Yumna Zaidi).
2. Ishq MurshidOST Name:
Channel: HUM TV
Singer: Ahmed Jahanzeb
Lyrics: Sabir Zafar
Youtube :Views: 6.1 Million
‘Ishq Murshid’ unfolds a compelling romantic story revolving around the two main characters, Shahmeer Sikandar and Shibra Salman. It’s lovely OST was performed by Ahmed Jahanzeb while the lyrics were by Sabir Zafar.
3. Mein
OST Name: Mein
Channel: ARY News
Singer:Asim Azhar
Lyrics: Kunal Verma
Youtube :Views: 10 Million
Enjoy Asim Azhar’s soothing voice in the melodious OST of ‘Mein’, featuring the perfect on-screen duo, Wahaj Ali and Ayeza Khan. Viewers applauded the captivating soundtrack that adds emotion to the show, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
4. Mujhe Pyar Hua Tha
OST Name: Kahani Suno
Channel: ARY News
Singer: Kaifi Khalil
Lyrics: Kaifi Khalil
Youtube :Views: 57 Million
The OST of Mujhe Pyar Hua Tha is the monster hit ‘Kahani Suno’, originally sung by Kaifi Khalil.This OST is one of the most viral songs of 2023.
5. Kabli Pulao
OST Name: Aankehn
Channel: Green Entertainment
Singer: Rahat Fateh Ali Khan
Lyrics: Imran Raza
Youtube :Views: 14 Million
Green Entertainment presents the melodious OST of drama ‘Kabli Pulao’, composed by Sahir Bagga. The romantic song adds charm to the show. Don’t miss out on another beautiful track, ‘Tooti Phooti Si,’ in this engaging drama. Enjoy the musical journey with Kabli Pulao, filled with emotions and captivating tunes.
Actress Ayeza Khan narrowly escaped in an incident where fire broke out during the shoot of a drama.
Ayeza Khan has shared a video from the set on Instagram.
In the video, the actor, following the director’s instructions, picks up a burning shawl and tosses it aside for the scene. However, as the shawl lands, flames spread on the ground. Unaware of the fire, Ayeza Khan continues moving backward, unintentionally stepping into the flames.
A voice can then be heard calling Ayeza’s name to warn her. She quickly becomes careful and narrowly avoids an accident.
Along with the video post, Ayeza thanked Allah for keeping her safe. She wrote that being an actor is not easy. “When the director says ‘action’ we forget what is going to happen next and just give our best. The quest to put on a performance dawns on us.”
She wrote that sometimes unexpected things happen on the set which the on-screen viewers don’t see but Allah protects them.
“I am thankful to Allah that He keeps me safe every day.”
Lollywood actress Veena Malik is all set to make a comeback on our screens, but in a very different format.
The actress and controversial social media personality has announced the launch of her YouTube channel in a video she shared on Instagram, revealing that her upcoming channel will be named ‘Showbazian.’
Malik elaborates that the channel will feature performances by various comedians.
In her hey day, Malik, a gifted mimic, was known for the Geo News superhit program ‘Hum Sub Umeed Se Hain’.
Even though she’s done well in both places, the actress, who is now a mom of two, is being more careful about the work she chooses.
After her divorce, she spends a lot of time with her kids. This means she’s more thoughtful and focused on her job compared to how she used to be.