Tag: topnews

  • The most loved dramas of 2023

    The most loved dramas of 2023

    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.

  • ‘Those who have dissociated from PTI through press conferences will not be granted election tickets,’ Barrister Gohar Khan

    ‘Those who have dissociated from PTI through press conferences will not be granted election tickets,’ Barrister Gohar Khan

    Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan made a significant announcement on Wednesday, stating that PTI leaders who have dissociated from the party through press conferences will not be granted election tickets.

    Speaking to the media outside Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi, Barrister Gohar emphasized the party’s firm decision not to award tickets to individuals involved in such public disassociations, regardless of the number of people involved.

    Highlighting the directives of PTI founder and former Prime Minister Imran Khan, Barrister Gohar mentioned, “Imran Khan has instructed the party to gear up for general elections 2024.”

    In response to the recent Supreme Court order on senior PTI leader Shah Mahmood Qureshi, the PTI chairman emphasized the Election Commission’s responsibility to ensure its implementation.

    He revealed that the commission had requested the party to submit an application concerning Qureshi and other incidents where PTI leaders and activists were targeted.

    Barrister Gohar informed the media about the Peshawar High Court (PHC) order and urged the Election Commission to upload the certificate of PTI’s intra-party elections, assuring that the commission would conduct an investigation. He asserted that if a party’s election symbol is revoked, it is equivalent to its dissolution, and only the Supreme Court holds the authority to make such decisions.

    Earlier on December 26, PTI Punjab Acting President Hammad Azhar commented on the issue, stating that the fate of PTI leaders who held press conferences and parted ways with the party would be decided by Imran Khan on a case-to-case basis.

    Azhar mentioned that many individuals who had dissociated through press conferences wished to return to the party, and Imran Khan would personally decide on their return.

    He also demanded release of all political workers, “Stop turning the criminal justice system into a joke. Release all political prisoners. My colleagues have languished in jails for more than 7 months despite being innocent. I myself have been falsely nominated as an accused in dozens of Fake FIRs despite being not present on any single incident mentioned (one overly imaginative mind even listed me as chucking petrol bombs on mall road). End this madness and release all. Stop rearresting ppl after bail. Stop booking ppl in fake cases after arbitrarily arresting them for holding political association with PTI. Let the people of Pakistan decide who will govern them.”

  • Mureeds of Shah Mehmood Qureshi protest against ‘ill-treatment’ by police

    Meher Bano Qureshi, daughter of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Vice Chairman Shah Mahmood Qureshi, said that the treatment being handed out to her father is unbearable for his “mureeds.”

    She was a guest on a podcast on the digital channel of Hum News.

    The mureeds of Shah Mehmood Qureshi protested on Thursday against the ill-treatment of police and the ‘bogus’ case against him.

    “The people of Umarkot came out of fear. Peaceful protest of Ghousia Jamaat followers and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf workers in Umarkot against the humiliation and bogus arrest of Makhdoom Shah Mehmood Qureshi by the Rawalpindi police.”

    @ik.imrankhan00 عمرکوٹ کی عوام خوف کے بت توڑ کر نکل آئی۔ کل راولپنڈی پولیس کی جانب سے مخدوم شاہ محمود قریشی کی تذلیل کرنے اور بوگس گرفتاری کے خلاف عمرکوٹ میں غوثیہ جماعت کے مریدین اور پاکستان تحریک انصاف کے کارکنان کا شہر میں پر امن احتجاج #ReleaseSMQ#releaseimrankhan #سیاسی_انتقام_بند_کرو #PakistanUnderFascism #foryou ♬ original sound – pti offical

    “The people of Khipro on the streets against oppression! Full peaceful protest of Ghousia Jamaat Khipro on ill-treatment of Shah Mehmood Qureshi and arrest in the bogus case.”

    @teamsmq کھپرو کے عوام ظلم کے خلاف سڑکوں پر! شاہ محمود قریشی کے ساتھ ناروا سلوک اور بوگس مقدمے میں گرفتاری پر غوثیہ جماعت کھپرو کا بھرپور پرامن احتجاج۔ #ReleaseSMQ ♬ original sound – riShi

    Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi is the Sajjada Nasheen of Shrine Hazrat Bahauddin Zakariya (R.A).

    After Hur and Sarwari Jamaats, the Ghousia Jamaat has the most influence in Sindh.

    Pir Pagara is the Sajjada Nashin for Hur Jamaat and Makhdum Amin Fahim for Sarwari Jamaat.

    Their “gaddis”- religious centers- are in Pir Jo Goth and Hala.

    While the gaddi for Qureshi’s followers is in Multan, the city used to be a part of Sindh till 1818 when Maharaja Ranjit Singh captured it. Hence, a large number of Bahauddin Zakariya’s followers are from Sindh.

    A few former parliamentarians in Sanghar, Hyderabad, and Tando Allahyar districts are diehard followers of Ghosia Jamaat, who were elected in the 2008 elections because of their influence in the community.

    Besides Tharparker, Sanghar, Tando Allahyar, Ghotki, Umerkot, Larkana, Kamber Shahdadkot, Shahdadpur, Mirpurkhas, Badin, Thatta and Jacobabad districts also have a large following of the Ghousia Jamaat.

  • Lollywood to Parliament; Film star Noor enters politics

    Lollywood to Parliament; Film star Noor enters politics

    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.

  • The most controversial dramas of 2023

    The most controversial dramas of 2023

    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:

    1. Mayi Ri

    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.

  • ‘I was tortured mentally, physically in jail,’ Shah Mehmood claims

    ‘I was tortured mentally, physically in jail,’ Shah Mehmood claims

    Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Vice Chairman Shah Mahmood Qureshi claimed to have endured mental and physical torture during his incarceration.

    The former Foreign Minister appeared before Duty Magistrate Syed Jahangir Ali in the GHQ attack case, asserting that he was subjected to harsh conditions, both mentally and physically, and exposed to severe cold weather while in jail.

    During the court session, he insisted on recording his statement in the presence of his counsel, expressing dissatisfaction with the police’s attempt to obtain his statement without legal representation as per Geo News.

    The former foreign minister said he was being treated in jail for the past several months in the same manner. “Is this justice? I am tortured,” he asked.

    Qureshi said he will swear on the Holy Quran that he was not present in Rawalpindi on May 9 and instead, he was in Karachi that day.

    “I was with my wife in the Aga Khan Hospital. Get the record from PEMRA, I was present in Karachi,” said Qureshi.

    Qureshi, who had previously been granted bail by three Supreme Court judges, questioned the justice system, highlighting the fluctuating circumstances of his arrest and release.

    He said that he was arrested under Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) 3.

    “One night I am arrested and in the morning I am told that I am being released. When I asked what made it happen, they replied there is a loophole in the case,” he said.

    Qureshi said he was ordered to be arrested on December 26 then the date was changed to 27. He was within the jail’s premises when Punjab police arrived to arrest him, he said.

    “I have been a member of the assembly for five times. SHO Ashfaq tortured me. He kicked and punched me,” he said. He said he felt pain in his chest for which he was begged the superintendent police for hours to take him to hospital.

    “A doctor was called who was carrying just a blood pressure checking machine,” he added.

    Earlier, the Rawalpindi Police reportedly barred journalists from entering the judicial complex, citing a ban on media coverage of the GHQ attack case against Qureshi.

    His legal counsel expressed concern over the restriction, questioning the nature of an in-camera trial with limited media access.

    Qureshi’s daughter, Meher Bano Qureshi, filed a petition with the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) against what she termed the “unlawful abduction” of her father, as per Geo News.

    Meherbano stated in the petition that Qureshi had been granted bail by the Supreme Court, and referred to the remark of Justice Athar Minallah, who stated: “The incarceration of the petitioners will not serve any useful purpose.

    Moreover, their release on bail during the period of elections would ensure ‘genuine elections and thus enable the people to exercise the right to express their will effectively and meaningfully.”

    The PTI vice chairman’s recent arrest, just after securing bail in a cipher case, raised questions about the circumstances surrounding his detention.

    President Arif Alvi also weighed in, calling on authorities to address the alleged mistreatment of Qureshi and uphold human rights and dignity.

    “We must not become a state where human rights and dignity are violated without fear. Authorities must pay attention to the confiscation of documents, the brutal action against the protesters, and now the indecent treatment of the former foreign minister by two governments,” Alvi wrote on X (former Twitter).

    The arrest is linked to cases related to the May 9 riots following the arrest of PTI founder Imran Khan. Qureshi is implicated in a GHQ attack case and is expected to appear in an anti-terrorism court (ATC) for further proceedings.

  • ‘Mannat Murad’ drama takes dramatic turn with unexpected slap exchange

    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.

    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.

  • Punjab is under security threat in upcoming elections, IG Punjab warns

    Punjab is under security threat in upcoming elections, IG Punjab warns

    Punjab Inspector General (IGP) Dr. Usman Anwar has said that there is a serious threat to the law and order situation in the upcoming general elections, set to take place on February 8, Samma reported on Wednesday.

    The IGP talked to media after the inauguration of an art exhibition at Alhamhra Art Gallery, where he said that the police maintained the law and order situation during the festivities of Muharram and Christmas.

    “Many terrorist activities were foiled due to the conviction of the police,” he said.

    Usman Anwar stated that the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) is working on threats in Punjab, adding that police arrested 60 per cent of people last year who were involved in the May 9 riots.

    The IGP also claimed that the transfers and postings in the police department are being done at the direction of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP).

  • Jahangir Tareen faces tough challenges in Lodhran

    Jahangir Tareen faces tough challenges in Lodhran

    As the nation gears up for the upcoming general elections, political tensions have intensified in Lodhran district, specifically between the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the newly emerged Istehkam-i-Pakistan Party (IPP).

    Failure to reach a seat adjustment formula between the two parties may result in a challenging electoral battle for Jahangir Tareen, the chief of the IPP, in his native district of NA-155.

    Reports from Dawn indicate that Jahangir Tareen, strategically evaluating the situation, has taken preemptive measures by filing nomination papers for NA-149 in Multan as well.

    Tareen has submitted papers for two National Assembly seats and four Punjab Assembly seats, indicating a readiness for multiple contingencies.

    The primary contender against Tareen, PML-N’s Abdul Rehman Kanju, has publicly opposed any seat adjustment with the IPP. Kanju has urged the party leadership not to impose such an arrangement, potentially setting the stage for fierce competition in Lodhran.

    Amid this uncertainty, 14 candidates have submitted their nomination papers for NA-154 (Lodhran), including notable figures such as Abdul Rehman Kanju and Imtiaz Begum.

    Meanwhile, 14 candidates who submitted their nomination papers from NA-154 (Lodhran) include PML-N divisional president and ex-interior state minister Abdul Rehman Kanju, and his mother Imtiaz Begum, PTI leader Akhtar Khan Kanju (an uncle of Abdul Rehman Kanju), ex-MNA Nawab Amanullah Khan, Ajmal Khan Kanju, Rana Faraz Noon, Rana Afzal Noon, Pir Raza Shah, Imdadullah Abbasi of PPP, Sohail Khan Kanju, Muhammad Zubair, Zafar Iqbal, Irfan Ahmed and Ismat Bibi.

    As many as 20 candidates have filed papers from NA-155, including Jahangir Tareen, former MNA Siddique Khan Baloch, ex-MNA of PTI Muhammad Iqbal Shah, his son, ex-MPA Aamir Iqbal Shah, Mudassar Jahanzeb Shah, Rana Muhammad Rafiq of the Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), Shah Nawaz of the PPP, Ziaul Rehman Tamimi of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI), Sajid Iqbal of Pakistan Markazi Muslim League, Saleem Abbas of Saraiki Democratic Alliance, Muhammad Akram Qaiser, Muhammad Qasim, Ghulam Mustafa, Wasim Ahmed, Ahmed Deen Malik, and Nafees Murad Meo.

    A total of 19 candidates have filed papers from provincial assembly constituency PP-225 (Lodhran -1), They include Abdul Rehman Kanju, ex-minister Jail Zawwar Hussain Waraich, ex-MPA Pirzada Jahangir Bhutta, Tahir Hussain Khan, Muhammad Razaq, Muhammad Saleem Akhtar, Ashiq Hussain Baloch, Imran Habib Bhutta, Kaleem Hassan, Ali Hassan, Nadira Hayatullah, Aftab Ali Babar, Muhammad Mubeen, Mumtaz Hussain Baloch, Shazia Hayat Tareen, Intizar Ahmad Attari, Muhammad Yuosuf, Rab Nawaz Khan and Waseem Abbas.

  • Kya PTI leaders mein larai chal rahi hai?

    Kya PTI leaders mein larai chal rahi hai?

    As Pakistan gears up for the upcoming general elections, internal tensions have surfaced within the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), notably between leaders Taimur Khan Jhagra and Sher Afzal Marwat.

    The disagreement revolves around Marwat’s decision to enter the electoral race in Peshawar.

    Jhagra, a prominent PTI leader hailing from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, has expressed objections to Marwat’s choice to contest the elections scheduled for February 8 next year from the NA-32 constituency in Peshawar.

    During a recent statement, Jhagra emphasized, “It would be more fitting if a leader from Peshawar contested from that constituency.”

    He underscored that the party, rather than individual leaders, should determine the candidates’ election constituencies.

    In response to these objections, Marwat, in an interview with Geo News, stated that he has no personal interest in participating in the elections.”The PTI founder has directed me to contest elections from Peshawar,” he added.

    Marwat, who has already submitted his nomination papers, reiterated his commitment to contesting elections from Peshawar as per Imran Khan’s instructions.

    The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has reported a significant influx of nomination papers, receiving a total of 28,626 submissions from aspiring candidates across the country vying to participate in the upcoming polls.

    As per the ECP’s data seen by Geo News, 7,242 men and 471 women have filed nomination papers for national assembly seats (general), whereas for provincial assemblies, the number stands at 17,744 and 802, respectively.

    The ECP is currently scrutinising the nomination papers filed by the candidates with the stage set to culminate on December 30 (Saturday).

    Meanwhile, appeals against the acceptance or rejection of nomination papers can be submitted by January 3, and decisions on these appeals will be made by January 10.

    The top electoral body will issue the list of candidates on January 11, with candidates having the option to withdraw until January 12 i.e., before the ECP allots electoral symbol on January 13.

    As per the data shared by the ECP, a total of 459 and 1,365 nomination papers have been received by the electoral body for the reserved seats for national and provincial legislature, respectively.

    Meanwhile, on the reserved seats for non-muslims, 361 men and 32 women have submitted their nomination papers for provincial assemblies. For national assembly seats, the number stands at 140 and 10, respectively.

    A total of 7,713 people have submitted their nomination papers for national assembly seats (general), with the number standing at 18,546 for provincial assemblies (general).