Tag: ZEE5

  • ‘Want India and Pakistan on set together,’: Producer of Barzakh Shailja Kejriwal

    ‘Want India and Pakistan on set together,’: Producer of Barzakh Shailja Kejriwal

    Shailja Kejriwal, the chief creative officer at Zee Entertainment’s Zindagi channel, is on a mission to unite Indian and Pakistani artists and writers.
    In a recent interview with Press Trust of India, Kejriwal expressed her desire to see more collaborations between talents from both countries, despite the challenges posed by political tensions.

    Shailja Kejriwal said, “My ultimate desire, I don’t know whether it will happen or not, is that we collaborate… writers and artists from both sides should be on a set together. I am trying to follow that path. Hopefully, we will be able to do something because we flourish more if we are open and inclusive.”

    It has been a journey of one step forward, two steps back for the producer who was instrumental in making Pakistani actors like Fawad Khan, Sanam Saeed, and Mahira Khan household names in India by showcasing dramas such as Zindagi Gulzar Hai and Humsafar through the Zindagi platform launched in 2014.

    The channel Zindagi, led by Kejriwal, has successfully produced a number of projects with Pakistani actors and directors. Popular series like Qatil Haseenaon Ke Naam, Churails, Mrs. & Mr. Shameem, and the new web series Barzakh starring Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed are among the noteworthy productions. The channel has aired iconic Pakistani dramas like ‘Thakan’, Shukk, Pyarey Afzal, Meri Beti, Mere Harjai, and Main Bushra.

    Kejriwal highlighted her commitment

    “I felt my work would be incomplete if I didn’t play a role in bringing these artists back. My ambition extends beyond just pan India. My dream is to unite South Asians and Asians through collaboration,” Shailja added.

  • Nadia Khan praises ‘Barzakh’ for breaking away from traditional saas-bahu dramas

    Nadia Khan praises ‘Barzakh’ for breaking away from traditional saas-bahu dramas

    Asim Abbasi’s Barzakh, with big names including Salman Shahid, Fawad Khan, Mohammad Fawad Khan, and Sanam Saeed, has grabbed all the headlines since its release on Zee Zindagi’s YouTube. Fans can be found online discussing themes and episodes.

    Recently television host Nadia Khan also shared her review. During her show ‘Kya Drama Hai’ on Channel 24,

    Nadia said, “There are five reasons why you should watch the web series ‘Barzakh’. Firstly, it marks Fawad Khan’s comeback after a long time, which is a big deal. Additionally, the pairing of Fawad and Sanam is a hit and it’s been a while since we’ve seen them together. The theme of the series is also unique as it’s an international platform, which means there are no restrictions on language, clothing, or scenes. This makes it a relief for those who are tired of the usual saas-bahu and family dramas. Lastly, the series has a dark and mysterious tone with a murder mystery that will keep you engaged.”

    Here is the link to what Nadia Khan said about Barzakh:

  • From ‘Man Jogi’ to ‘Mrs. &Mr. Shameem’

    From ‘Man Jogi’ to ‘Mrs. &Mr. Shameem’

     
    The Current recently had a conversation with Saji Gul, the writer of the drama ‘Mrs. & Mr. Shameem’ where details about why the title changed from its original name ‘Man Jogi’ have emerged.

     

    Gul revealed, “Initially, we named it ‘Mann Jogi,’ but later we found ‘Mrs. &Mr. Shameem’ to be more appealing. We wanted a title that highlighted both lead characters, and ‘Mrs. &Mr. Shameem’ resonated better with Zee.”

     

    Reflecting on the first title, Gul said, “While ‘Man Jogi’ sounded funny ‘Mrs. &Mr. Shameem’ just fit the story and characters better.”

     He also noted that Man Jogi was tricky to pronounce, so choosing Mrs. and Mr. Shameem was simpler for viewers.

    Mrs. & Mr. Shameem is a 2022 web series released initially on ZEE5 on March 11, 2022. Written by Saji Gul and directed by Kashif Nisar, it was co-produced by Misbah Shafique.  

     

     

     

    The web series revolves around Umaina, an independent woman residing in a Lahore hostel. Shameem, the elder brother of Umaina’s friend, faces ridicule from society due to his effeminate nature.

     

    Circumstances compel Umaina and Shameem to live together and enter into a marriage of convenience. As their relationship unfolds, they gradually develop feelings for each other, navigating the challenges that life throws at them.

     

     

    On April 26 2024, ‘Mrs. & Mr. Shameem’ became available on the Zindagi YouTube channel, with two episodes releasing weekly on Tuesday and Friday.

     Saji Gul is a renowned screenwriter of television industry, he has writeen drama serials include ‘Ilteja’, ‘Pyari Bitto’ and the award winning ‘O Rangreza’, which was a massive success in 2017-18 and brought him critical acclaim.

     

    Currently he is the head of content at Green TV entertainment and general secretary screenwriters association of Pakistan.

     

  • Sarah Khan shares what happened behind the set in ‘Abdullahpur ka Devdas’

    Sarah Khan shares what happened behind the set in ‘Abdullahpur ka Devdas’

    Actress Sarah Khan has recently shared some behind the scenes photos from the drama ‘Abdullahpur Ka Devdas.’
    The highly anticipated series ‘Abdullahpur Ka Devdas’, starring Sarah Khan and Bilal Abbas Khan, made its debut on Zindagi channel after being produced for Zee5 some years ago. The drama, known for its cinematic storyline and presentation, has become a hit among viewers, averaging three million views per episode.

    The acting performances have received praise from the audience.
    Bilal Abbas Khan, Sarah Khan, Raza Talish, Anoushey Abbasi, Nauman Ijaz, Ali Ansari, Savera Nadeem, and others star in the drama series. The final episode is scheduled to air next week on Friday since it consists of 13 episodes. Sarah Khan has posted some lovely behind-the-scenes pictures from the set. Take a look at a few of them below:

  • Bilal Abbas, Ramsha Khan call it quits after allegedly dating for five years

    Bilal Abbas, Ramsha Khan call it quits after allegedly dating for five years

    Actor Bilal Abbas Khan recently unfollowed his alleged girlfriend Ramsha Khan and her Hum Tum costar Ahad Raza Mir. The duo was reportedly dating since the days of their debut film together, Thora Jee Le.

    on Twitter:

    During the Khel Khel Mein promotions, Bilal also hinted at getting hitched in the near future however the Balaa actor has created a storm on social media by unfollowing his alleged lady love and the ex-husband of his friend Sajal Aly together.

    The Dobara star, who is a heartthrob of 2.4 million fans and more, has made his followers curious.

    Bilal Abbas Unfollows Rumored Bae Ramsha Khan & Co-Star Ahad Raza Mir | Reviewit.pk

    Bilal also unfollowed actor Feroze Khan.

    His costar Sajal recently mentioned in an interview that, “Whenever I got time on the sets I have tried to persuade Bilal to get married. I mean if there’s someone he is interested in he should get married. And I think there is someone in his life”.

    Netizens think that Bilal Abbas Khan UNFOLLOWED Ahad Raza Mir and actress Ramsha Khan on Instagram 'for the sake of friendship with Sajal Aly' - Showbiz Pakistan

    Earlier a portal covered their romantic equation.

    Rumour mills are also buzzing with growing proximity of Ramsha and Ahad, hence many fans believe that it could be a reason of their split.

  • Trailblazer: Saba, Naumaan hit it out of the park with Zee5’s bold ‘Mrs. & Mr. Shameem’

    Trailblazer: Saba, Naumaan hit it out of the park with Zee5’s bold ‘Mrs. & Mr. Shameem’

    Pakistani A-listers Saba Qamar and Naumaan Ijaz are set to feature in the latest Zindagi original series “Mrs & Mr Shameem”. Touted to be an “unconventional love story”, the show will premiere globally on ZEE5 on March 11.

    The series is directed by filmmaker Kashif Nisar, who has helmed dramas like Raqeeb Se and O Rangreza.

    Stellar performances

    Both Saba and Naumaan have gotten into the skin of their characters, essaying their roles to perfection. A special mention to Naumaan for not making his character a caricature with over the top nuances or dramatic body language. Even supporting cast members are impactful and promising going by the trailer.

    Theme

    The theme of the series is a trailblazer for Pakistan, the male protagonist is an effeminate man, supposedly from the Queer community who has been presented as colourful and brave rather than a victim. Also their is an angle of an illegitimate child which has been dealt with maturity.

    Manish Kalra, Chief Business Officer, ZEE5 India said the upcoming drama marks the continuation of their collaboration with Zindagi to present “real and relevant stories but with a twist”.

    ZEE5 Global announces Zindagi's next original 'Mrs. & Mr. Shameem' premiering on 11th March 2022 | NEXT TV | Entertainment News, Gossips, Bollywood, Hollywood, Lollywood, Fashion, Art, Lifestyle, Beauty.

    “It’s an unconventional love story explored through a new lens as it shatters age old gender roles and boundaries defined by the society. It also has a stellar team behind it, and we are excited to bring this forth to our viewers across 190+ countries,” Kalra said in a statement.

    Shailja Kejriwal, Chief Creative Officer, Special Projects, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. said “Mrs & Mr Shameem” aims at “redefining the meaning of true love” and challenges society’s preconceived gender biases.

    “It is an uncommon bond of two people based on nothing superficial,” she added.

    According to director Kashif, the show follows the story of Shameem, who “embodies effeminate traits” while Umaina, played by Qamar, is “outspoken and bold in her ways”.

    “Despite their significant personality differences, there develops a beautiful bond between them of love, respect and companionship”.

    It is written by Sajjad Gul (Saji), who said the series is a “contemporary story” which traces the journey of Umaina and Shameem discovering love in its “unusual ways”.

    “The show challenges the gender barriers that exist in society. We hope that the audience connects with the story as it presents a fresh perspective on love,” the writer added.

  • Saba Qamar, Naumaan Ijaz’s upcoming web-series gets an interesting new title

    Saba Qamar, Naumaan Ijaz’s upcoming web-series gets an interesting new title

    The makers of the web series, starring Saba Qamar and Naumaan Ijaz has announced a new title named ‘Mrs and Mr Shameem‘ in a press release which was previously announced as Mann Jogi.

    The director of the web series, Kashif Nisar said, “We were contemplating about the title for a while and finally decided to call it Mrs & Mr Shameem. It is a true reflection of the story and depicts a changing outlook among society – one in which the woman plays an equally significant role in a relationship. Saba and Noumaan have done a fantastic job of bringing the characters Mrs and Mr Shameem to life.”

    Kashif Nisar has previously directed distinctive and artistic dramas including Dumpukht, Aatish E Ishq, and O Rangreza.

    This web series is based on a pure love story and depicts a journey of a couple from being friends to growing old together.

    It is being produced by ZEE5, Mrs. & Mr. Shameem is a “distinctive love story that reinforces how every love is special but only a few survive it – learn from it and grow through it together.”

    The web series will be streamed on the Indian streaming platform, Zee5.

  • ‘Zindagi Gulzar Hai’ pair Fawad-Sanam set to romance in three projects

    ‘Zindagi Gulzar Hai’ pair Fawad-Sanam set to romance in three projects

    Actors Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed are set to be seen opposite each other in three different projects.

    The Zindagi Gulzaar Hai duo will be seen in a television commercial. Earlier, pictures of the actors from BTS (behind the scenes) were circulating on social media.

    Later, it was also reported that the two have signed the feature film Aan, directed by Haseeb Hassan.

    As per recent reports, the Humsafar star is reportedly starring in an upcoming Zee5 web series.

    Indian producer Shailja Kejriwal who has produced films like Qarib Qarib Single shared a picture of the Kapoor and Sons hero on her Instagram with the caption reading, ‘FINALLY!’ Pakistani director Mehreen Jabbar commented ‘excited for this one’ under the picture, further hinting towards the project being a Zee5 show since Jabbar has created the likes of Ek Jhooti Love Story for the same platform.

    While Saeed’s involvement in the project is yet to be confirmed, fans are already celebrating the rumours.

    The hit on-screen pair did a photoshoot for Sadaf’s clothing line recently.

    Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed are reuniting, this time for a movie - Film & TV - Images
    Sanam Saeed and Fawad Khan reunite for photo shoot | Pakistani Cinema – Gulf News
  • Netizens demand a ban on Ahad and Sajal starrer Dhoop Ki Deewar

    Netizens demand a ban on Ahad and Sajal starrer Dhoop Ki Deewar

    The Zee5’s original Pakistani web series Dhoop Ki Deewar featuring Sajal Aly and Ahad Raza Mir sparked a controversy on social media as #BanDhoopKiDeewar trended on twitter.

    The trailer of the series has been released on Youtube and after watching it, Pakistanis think that the story of the project is against the Two-Nation Theory presented by the founders of the country. The Kashmir angle has also aggravated the backlash.

    The story of the web series revolves around Pakistan-India tensions at the Line of Control (LOC) in Kashmir. Sajal appears as Sara from Pakistan and Ahad as Vishal from India, both lost their fathers during firing at the LOC. Later on, the characters share their grief through social media leading to their friendship which came as a surprise for their families.

    Here’s how Pakistanis reacted to this story:

    https://twitter.com/Arslan_Sadiq/status/1405848030050390018?s=20
    https://twitter.com/dawoodawan99/status/1405840897749700611?s=20
    https://twitter.com/MuzaffarAruba/status/1405834522600509448?s=20

    https://twitter.com/Rashid2k21/status/1405831242126352385?s=20
    https://twitter.com/UmeHareemLhr/status/1405845032800821255?s=20

    https://twitter.com/abdullah_gps/status/1405865098250489860?s=20

    While defending all the criticism, the writer of the web series, Umera Ahmed came up with a clarification on her digital media accounts.

    Zee5’s Dhoop Ki Deewar will be premiering on June 25.

  • Dhoop Ki Deewar’s trailer promises an engaging tale with the message of peace

    Dhoop Ki Deewar’s trailer promises an engaging tale with the message of peace

    After delivering super successful dramas together with Yaqeen Ka Safar and Yeh Dil Mera, Ahad Raza Mir and Sajal Aly are set to treat their fans in an engaging cross-border tale of love, hate and nationalism directed by Haseeb Hassan.

    Sajal plays Sara from Pakistan and Ahad essays the role of Vishal from India. The trailer provides us an insight on how the militant attacks at the border from both the sides effect the normal people and their livelihood in a gruesome manner.

    The series attempts at normalizing the similarities that Indians and Pakistanis share rather than clouting the differences between the two. It reflects on the similar family structure and values on both sides of the border. If a Pakistani gets hurt and affected by the militant strikes so does the Indians. It also ponders on the point in the fights of governments and militants, its the normal citizen which gets affected.

    What makes the screenplay more gripping is the connection shared between Sara and Vishal who fall for each other through social media despite not meeting each other even once knowing the fact that their future is not in their hands and that their countries are at loggerheads. The two stand in front of their families to defend their lover and even try to improve the fabricated narrative about their partner’s community.

    The background score adds to the intrigue of the screenplay whereas crisp editing works for the show’s mise-en-scene, making the narrative fast paced and engaging.

    Dhoop Ki Deewar is an ensemble and stars Manzar Sehbai, Sawera Nadeem, Samiya Mumtaz, Zaib Rehman, Samina Ahmed, Zoya Nasir and child star Sami Khan in pivotal roles. It premieres on June 25 on Zee5.