Category Archives: Article

JAISAY AAPKI MARZI: A GRIPPING TALE OF LIBERATION AND EMPOWERMENT

In the realm of Pakistani television dramas, “Jaisay Aapki Marzi” has emerged as a thought-provoking and impactful narrative that delves into the intricacies of toxic relationships, highlighting the profound effects of a toxic partner on the mental and emotional well-being of an individual. The drama, while shedding light on the harsh realities of such relationships, also emphasizes the significance of women’s empowerment in such challenging situations.
“Jaisay Aapki Marzi” revolves around the theme of a toxic marriage and the ensuing emotional and psychological toll it takes on the partner. The storyline unfolds the subtle nuances of manipulation, control, and emotional abuse that often go unnoticed in toxic relationships. As the plot unfolds, it highlights the need for self-discovery and liberation from the clutches of an oppressive marriage. It vividly portrays the anguish, anxiety, and trauma experienced by the character as she grapples with emotional manipulation, control, and constant belittlement. Through compelling storytelling, the audience witnesses the erosion of the protagonist’s self-esteem and the gradual deterioration of her mental well-being.
Amidst the tumultuous narrative, “Jaisay Aapki Marzi” discusses the crucial role of women empowerment in reclaiming one’s life. The protagonist’s journey toward self-discovery and empowerment is a central focus of drama, highlighting the resilience needed to break free from societal norms and assert one’s autonomy. The drama advocates for the importance of a support system, individual agency, and empowerment for women facing oppressive circumstances.
“Jaisay Aapki Marzi” is carefully crafted to complement the intensity of the storyline. The juxtaposition of urban life with traditional societal expectations adds depth to the narrative. The well-defined settings, including the family home and societal spaces, serve as symbolic landscapes that mirrors the constraints imposed upon the protagonist.
The drama boasts a stellar cast that brings authenticity and depth to the characters. The nuanced performances of the actors contribute significantly to the believability of the narrative. A talented ensemble cast, led by skilled performers, ensures that the emotional nuances and complexities of the characters are portrayed with utmost sincerity.
“Jaisay Aapki Marzi” stands out as a poignant exploration of the social acceptance with regards to toxic behavior exhibited by husbands in Pakistani households. Drama is a success in terms of highlighting the reality of toxic relationships and importance of individual’s mental and emotional well-being. Mikaal Zulifqar and Dur-e-Fishan Saleem, as protagonists of the drama, have conveyed a powerful message of bringing about necessary change in the institution of marriage. The ending of the drama provides that a woman has a choice to leave a toxic relationship which seems a little far from reality because many Pakistani women are not provided with this choice. It can be concluded that drama has given strength to many women to walk out of a toxic relationship.

AYEZA KHAN: AN EPITOME OF MODESTY AND BRILLIANCE

In the vibrant environment of Pakistani entertainment, Ayeza Khan stands as a shining example of versatility, modesty, and talent. Ayeza has become a household name, captivating audiences with her exceptional acting skills and undeniable charm.

Ayeza Khan’s journey into the entertainment world began at a young age. Raised in a supportive family, she exhibited a natural flair for acting and modeling. Her foray into the world of glamour commenced when she was just a teenager, and her undeniable talent quickly gained attention. Ayeza’s early career included modeling and commercials, which set the stage for her eventual transition.

A pivotal moment in Ayeza Khan’s career came with her breakthrough role in the drama serial Tum Jo Miley, and Ayeza’s portrayal of the character Nabila showcased her ability to convey a range of emotions with authenticity. This marked the beginning of her ascent to stardom, and she continued to impress audiences and critics alike with subsequent projects.

Ayeza Khan seamlessly transitions between diverse roles, portraying characters that resonate with viewers across different demographics. From the innocent and naive to the strong and resilient, Ayeza brings a genuine touch to each character she embodies. Whether it’s the emotionally charged “Pyarey Afzal” or the socially relevant “Meray Paas Tum Ho,” Ayeza Khan’s performances are a testament to her commitment to her craft. Her ability to delve into the complexities of human emotions has earned her acclaim and numerous awards.

Beyond the glitz and glamour of the entertainment industry, Ayeza Khan’s modesty, despite being famous, is inspiration for many. Our society is running on this misconception that celebrities usually indulge in immoral activities to get fame but Ayeza is an example for most, that a woman can become empowered while remembering her values and boundaries. She stands as a perfect example of keeping a balance between work and family.
Ayeza Khan’s journey in the Pakistani entertainment industry is nothing short of inspiring. From her early days to her current status as a celebrated actress, she has remained grounded and connected with her audience. Ayeza’s ability to bring authenticity to her roles, coupled with her dedication to making a difference, makes her a true gem in the world of Pakistani entertainment. As she continues to evolve as an artist, one can only anticipate more memorable performances and contributions from this versatile star.

FROM THE BOY NEXT DOOR TO A HEART-THROB

The Journey of Wahaj Ali

Wahaj Ali, who attained the pinnacle of fame, has won over everyone’s affection. Wahaj rose to prominence following the success of the drama series “Tere Bin,” which shattered all previous records of popularity and praise. In addition to growing his fan base, Murtasim’s tough manly persona gave him access to new opportunities due to such a unique role.

Wahaj, who originally studied business, changed his focus to media after pursuing an interactive filmmaking master’s degree at NCA. His proclivity for the entertainment industry led him to explore Pakistan’s theater sector. Wahaj used to perform in dramas and small-scale theater events. In addition, his first audition which didn’t go well might be a surprise for his fans because the audition opened doors of the industry to him.

The most remarkable quality about Wahaj Ali that has propelled him to such rapid success, is his ability to play every role to the highest degree of skill and perfection. Wahaj has consistently performed well in all of the roles he has taken on, whether they were lighthearted or serious. He flawlessly adopts that persona, acting as though he is that person.

In the drama serial “Mera Dard Na Jane koi,” Wahaj made his screen debut. Wahaj was formally introduced to the industry in 2015 with the premiere of that series. Following that serial, Wahaj starred in a number of serials, including Ishq Ibadat and Bikhray Moti, but it was Ehd-e-Wafa that first gained him popularity.

The Hum TV program Ehd-e-Wafa revolved around the themes of loyalty and friendship. Wahaj, played the role of a smart student, who rose to prominence as a news reporter. The special friendship between the four buddies helped the series become quite well-known.

Wahaj’s work and efforts have consistently earned him accolades. But the point of contention for his supporters is his most recent branding endeavor for Mushq Pakistan. Wahaj’s body was partially exposed in the teaser for the advertisement that the brand just released. Many people were triggered by the trailer and said things like “the scene was unnecessary and whatnot.” But, to notice deeply, it is important to note that Wahaj has entered the world of brand ambassadors professionally, even though his followers had mixed reactions to the real ad campaign.

Wahaj has gone a long way since he began the journey eight years ago and kudos for his diligence and commitment. Wahaj is like many other gifted artists in the industry who established themselves with hard work. Wahaj serves as a real-life inspiration for all aspiring artists, demonstrating that there is always hope for their dreams.

ISHQ MURSHAD: A TALE OF LOVE, FAITH, AND INTRIGUE

“Ishq Murshad” is a captivating drama that weaves a tapestry of love, faith, and intrigue. Set against the backdrop of rich cultural landscapes, this Pakistani drama has taken the audience on a rollercoaster of emotions, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of viewers. At its core, the serial explores the complexities of love and the blurred lines between devotion and obsession. The narrative follows the lives of characters whose destinies become entwined in the enigmatic realm of love guided by a spiritual mentor, or ‘Murshad.’ The plot unfolds like a well-crafted novel, each episode adding layers of suspense and unveiling the intricacies of human relationships.

The character dynamics in “Ishq Murshad” are a testament to the brilliant storytelling. The protagonist’s journey is a delicate dance between love and spirituality, as he navigates the challenges posed by societal norms and personal conflicts. The drama artfully addresses the clash between traditional values and the evolving dynamics of contemporary relationships.

The setting of “Ishq Murshad” plays a pivotal role in enhancing the overall experience. From bustling bazaars to serene landscapes, the visuals transport the audience into a world where every frame is a piece of art. The attention to detail in costume design and cinematography adds authenticity, making the audience feel like they are part of the characters’ lives.

The drama’s soundtrack is a melodic composition that resonates with the emotions portrayed on screen. The soul-stirring tunes and poignant lyrics complement the narrative, intensifying the impact of pivotal scenes. Ahmed Jahanzeb has added another beautiful track to everyone’s playlist.

One of the standout elements of “Ishq Murshad” is its exploration of faith. The Murshad’s influence on the characters raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of spirituality and the thin line between blind faith and genuine devotion. The drama prompts viewers to reflect on their beliefs, adding a layer of depth to the overall narrative.

The ensemble cast delivers stellar performances, bringing their characters to life with authenticity and nuance. The chemistry between Shahmeer and Shibra, and the supporting cast adds depth to the storyline. The character arcs are carefully crafted, allowing each actor to shine in their respective roles. “Ishq Murshad” has not only captured the hearts of its audience but has also sparked conversations about the societal norms it addresses. The drama serves as a mirror reflecting the intricacies of human relationships and the impact of external influences on personal choices.

In conclusion, “Ishq Murshad” stands out as a compelling drama that transcends the conventional boundaries of storytelling. It seamlessly blends elements of love, faith, and intrigue, creating a narrative that resonates with viewers on a profound level. As the drama continues to unfold, it leaves us eagerly anticipating each episode, eager to witness the next twist in this captivating tale of love and spirituality.

LOST INNOCENCE: THE FIGHT AGAINST CHILD MARRIAGE

Maye Ri is the subject that has been the talk of the town for a while now. It’s on-aired on ARY
Digital. The topic of child marriage was revealed to the audience in the first ten episodes of this
Big Bang Entertainment show, leaving them both shocked and intrigued. Two cousins who were
fifteen years old when they got married was the tale told by Maye Ri. Since the serial glorified
child marriage, many viewers were against the idea. Later on, the serial veered away from the
main problem and towards family politics. When the main characters Annie and Fakhir had a
child, the serial took a surprising turn. The thought of child marriage and the serial’s exaltation
of a romantic relationship between two teenagers—who are far too young to be thinking about
such things—were too much for the audience to accept. However, as they both get divorced,
the drama finishes with a shocking revelation for the audience. Many people in the audience
were upset because they didn’t want to witness this conclusion. Conversely, the second set of
viewers endorsed the notion that they split up and that Annie, the lead actress, began to
advance academically while raising her child.
The serial writer made a commendable effort to address a delicate issue that is pervasive in
today’s society. Numerous children in our nation have suffered as a result of the issue of child
marriage. A 2018 UNICEF report states that about 18% of Pakistani females get married before
turning 18. Keeping this fact in mind, the story was not particularly well shown, despite the fact
that the theme was created and chosen with total care. It was no different than the soap operas
that we had been watching for a while.
The lead actress was given the opportunity to advance in her life, which is a positive conclusion,
but the most difficult aspect came with being a parent. The kid, who would ultimately suffer
from his parents’ split, was ignored, despite the fact that many spectators thought their divorce
had a happy conclusion. To put it briefly, the show covered two themes rather than just one.
The first was child marriage, which is evident, and the second involved teenagers having
children at a very young age and the difficulties they face.
A few works of art produced by our industry must not be overlooked while we examine this
drama and its details. They simply stuck with the main theme, highlighting it perfectly. The true
masterwork that ranks first is Udaari. The theme of Udaari was the sexual abuse of children.
Moving further, Sang-e-Mah which was produced in 2022 captivated audiences with its
depiction of the tribal areas’ jirga system and the ways in which the powerful influence choices
for their own benefit. It’s a lengthy list, too. Similar serials have been produced in the past that
cleverly and directly addressed the subjects without deviating from the main theme.
In conclusion, this television series made a respectable attempt to draw attention to a
significant social issue plaguing our society, but it appears that our industry professionals will
need a little more time to refine and improve their work.

UNRAVELING EXCELLENCE: THE EROSION OF ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY STANDARDS

Ayesha Mano, a young tiktoker, gained notoriety after performing on an old song title “Mera dil yeh pukaare aaja” in a recent viral video.

Her performance served as a key to unlock countless doors of opportunities for her. Ayesha Mano received many offers to serve as the lead model for newly unveiled collections in addition to her invitation on Nida Yasir’s morning show.

Given the aforementioned fame Ayesha attained, it is important to draw attention to a few issues that need to be explored in order to comprehend the workings of our entertainment sector. A variety of channels to promote Ayesha were utilized, mostly the traditional and mainstream media, but instead of focusing on any potential talent she may have had, they chose to highlight her recent rise to stardom. The fact that the caliber of both our artists and our industry has declined over time is a conundrum.

What would be the appropriate course of action for businesses to follow in these circumstances is the actual question, though. It has a very simple and obvious response. The industry must establish a few regulations and should solely focus on supporting and giving opportunities to committed artists, whereas these tiktokers exploit shortcuts to gain fame and do not focus on the phenomena of quality while making content. On social media, we come across a number of artists who started from scratch and prioritized quality, like Shae Gill. Similar to this, the industry needs to promote artists that have training and experience in domains like acting, modeling, writing, etc. Our industry could only retain its level in this manner.

Furthermore, it is important for both us and those working in the sector to know how to distinguish between real talent and bubble talent. Ayesha, who gained fame solely as a result of the dancing video, demonstrates unequivocally that Pakistanis tend to hype up bogus ability. To counteract the influence of these bubble stars who are gradually attempting to take over the industry through dishonest means, our entertainment sector must welcome quality-based artists into the industry in this competitive time.

It’s an issue that has to be considered and should be brought up in public discourse. Real talent in our nation is struggling to get into Pakistan’s creative enterprise, in contrast to bubble artists like Ayesha Mano, Nimra Ali, and many others who gained recognition overnight through their viral videos.  It is time that we ask ourselves who will be responsible for separating our nation’s actual talent from the bubble talent?

ZINDAGI TAMASHA: ARE WE FREE?

The recent venture, of renowned film maker and writer Sarmad Sultan Khoosat, is attracting attention and many things are taking round on internet regarding the themes and story line of film. The film is not a typical commercial movie but it is a masterpiece narrating the prejudices, social injustices and hypocrisy of Pakistani society.
The direction of Zindagi Tamasha was the most crucial aspect of the movie that gave it the appearance of being engaging. In contrast to all previous films made, this one was shot in a very distinctive and original way. The moments’ captivating magnetism held spectators glued to their screens. The androon setup of Lahore and its culture was exhibited in most authentic way. The cast did a good job in their roles, and director’s expertise was evident in each scene. The secret ingredient that gave this movie life was the use of the Punjabi language.
Zindagi Tamasha is unique on two levels; discusses religion and the standards of right and wrong promoted by clergy of Pakistan. Not only this, on a deeper level this film tries to find answers to the questions that no one dares to ask. It is for the first time that a certain class of society has been questioned; which has been deemed to be perfect and free from all malice. The film is receiving criticism because divinity of a certain class has been challenged. We really need to think whether Zindagi Tamasha is way ahead of its time or it is the right time?
Sarmad Sultan Khoosat said ‘the film is all yours’. In order to receive this movie we need to prepare ourselves as freedom seekers and process all kind of ideas before delving into the uncalculated decisions and hard narratives. With Zindagi Tamasha the claims of artistic freedom have flattened and even have become worse, and it is due to the political, social and economical structure of society. Artistic freedom is an asset for any society and helps improve social fragmentation. This is not what is happening here.
The shackles of constrained themes have created a suffocating environment for the creative industry of Pakistan. There is no right protocol for the expression of freedom. It is because we are not ready to face our inner devils and bitter truths. However, it has become more than important now to expose our follies and try to transform them. The problem is not with the movie the problem lies with us.
Although the entire movie deserved acclaim and admiration, it had to endure harsh criticism. The time has come to decide whether our society is prepared to accept such masterpieces or whether it will take another decade or even two for us to recover from the restriction syndrome.

TERE BIN: THE FAME GAME

The Pakistani romantic drama titled, “Tere Bin ” broke all the records of fame. It was produced by Abdullah Kadwani and Asad Qureshi. It was directed by Siraj ul Haq. The idea behind this ground-breaking serial was penned down by Nooran Makhdoom. The serial was loved not just by Pakistanis but was also loved by viewers across the border. Yumna Zaidi and Wahaj Ali were the lead cast who added life to this serial through their acting.

The story of the serial revolves around Meerab and Murtasim. Meerab is a smart, attractive young woman who wishes to pursue higher education. She has the utmost trust in her parents, around whom her entire universe revolves. She takes a position against social inequalities in her community because of her strong and self-assured nature. Murtasim, on the other hand, comes from a family that is both powerful and prominent. He cherishes and respects his family’s ideals and traditions and won’t disappoint them.

While the whole drama serial had a magical sense which kept the audience captive, a specific event grabbed the attention of everyone and generated a debate. The concept of marital- rape shown in the serial triggered many viewers. The people got divided and debated on different social media platforms. One group of people said that the state of Pakistan should not showcase such concepts openly in family serials, the other group of audience felt relieved that such an important issue is about to be discussed in an open space. However, it is remarkable that the drama provided an open space to discuss difficult topics. The drama is not only successful commercially, but is also successful in showcasing the emotions of the victims and suppressed women of our society.

Tere Bin is a tale of complex emotions and perplexed personalities. The convoluted morals of lead male character, Murtasim, have received mixed responses from the audience. The writer perfectly, conveyed the message that even perfect human beings have follies in them. Secondly, drama highlighted the need of bringing change in the institution of marriage in Pakistan. Drama truly interpreted the general mood of Pakistani society with respect to institution of marriage, and narrated what is being done and what is being perceived.

After the success of Tere Bin, the writer and producers have decided to screen season 2 of the serial as well. Share your views if the second season would be worth watching or would it finish the charm of season 1 as well?

BIN ROYE: A LOVE STORY THAT ENDED WELL

Bin Roye is a 2015 Pakistani romantic drama film directed by Momina Duraid and Shahzad Kashmiri. The film is produced by Momina Duraid and stars Humayun Saeed, Mahira Khan, Armeena Khan, Zeba Bakhtiar, Javed Sheikh and others.  Bin Roye is based on the original novel Bin Roye Ansoo by Farhat Ishtiaq. The film was released worldwide in July 2015. Bin Roye was later adapted into a television series with the same name, that premiered on Hum TV in October 2016.
Bin Roye narrates the complexities of unfilled and one sided love and explores the emotional complexities that are endured on the course. The battle of right and wrong and power of emotions over the logic are the defining characteristics of this 2015 mega hit movie of the Pakistani cinema. The movie showcases a typical Pakistani upper middle class family, laced with cultural and religious values. Every character is perfect in their own domain, show casing the goodness of morality. Saba is the main lead of the film, which is sweet, charming and girl next door type of character, who does not know about any difficulty that life poses. Her love for Irtiza is also sweet and seems like pouring from the tranquil gardens of Eden. The eve of the garden (Saba) is jolted to reality when she meets her sister from America, which she didn’t know about. Despite this big revelation Saba enjoys her bond with her newly found sister, but soon this beautiful engagement turns into nightmare when Irtiza gets married to her sister. Saba, heartbroken, prays for the death of her sister, and she dies. Is this a right thing to do to pray for someone’s death? Coming this from a perfect girl like Saba is the most unexpected thing and why Farhat Ishtiaq did this, she can better comment on that. Situation takes a turn and Saba is got married to Irtiza and to look after a child as well. On this union Saba should have been happy but she becomes cold, and resentful. However Irtiza acts like an alpha male and is able to manage traumas of Saba and they start living happily ever after.
Bin Roye is entertaining, with enticing soundtracks embellished with the costumes designed by our talented fashion designers. Farhat Ishtiaq crafted characters and environment which is idealistic and too good to be true, but it is a positive aspect of story because viewers for some time forget the horrors lurking in the outside world. The movie has a family and say no to vulgarity appeal, which attracted a large number of people. Bin Roye sets a high bar in terms of story, direction, cinematography and music. The sequences are well connected and add value to the story. The movie is a complete package but can Farhat Ishtiaq give us a movie like Yeah Dil Mera?

TURMOIL IN THE FILM INDUSTRY OF PAKISTAN AND CAN THERE BE A CHANCE TO MODERNIZE IT?

Pakistan is going through critical times with its unstable economy and its unpredictable sociopolitical situation. Pakistan’s film industry is in the same situation as our economy. There was a time when our boisterous industry, with renowned artists, was blooming like a flower giving its sweet nectar to everyone across the country as well as across the border. However that charm soon started to wilt and lost in time. That Golden era turned into a dark age for Pakistan’s film industry. The question is why we stopped getting films like Yeh Aman by Riaz Shahid, Ghareeb of Salim Nigar, Insaaf of Syed Kamal, Aina of Nadeem and Shabnam, and the list goes on…Have we forgotten the aspects of how to make a good movie or is it we are too lazy to come up with good plots? The answers can be quite radical.
Pakistani producers need to learn from other huge blockbuster movies and need to stop their meaningless whims, and look for opportunities by learning and seeking something new. Nowadays nobody is interested in watching Pakistani movies even in the cinemas there is less audience watching Pakistan movies and more foreign movies are garnering attention. What a pity. We should learn from Hollywood and even Bollywood, No offense! First, we need to avoid adding Romeo and Juliet-like character with their unending family rivalries, sizzling Saas Bahu fights, and not to mention no streamlined plots. Producers should think more rationally than traditionally. Production houses should seek good script writers, and then they should work with actors who are good at dialogue delivery with giving genuine emotions. As we are a Muslim country we should work on making biopic movies on our Muslim warriors like Salahuddin Ayyubi, Tippu Sultan, and the remarkable history of our freedom fighters, and stories having a moral ground in them. Recently, Pakistanis have loved watching Ertugrul, a Turkish series. If Hollywood, Bollywood, and Turkey can make their movies in the light of their history why can’t we?
Furthermore, we should modernize our film industry so that we can show our movies in a broad spectrum. One way is to provide more opportunities for filmmakers to showcase their work and provide funding for new productions. Another way is to improve the quality of films by providing better training for actors and filmmakers, and by investing in better equipment and technology. Additionally, creating a supportive environment for filmmakers by providing tax incentives and reducing censorship can help modernize the industry. Investing in film festivals and other events can help promote Pakistani films and filmmakers to a wider audience domestically and internationally. Living in an age of technology, Pakistani directors should utilize social and digital platforms to promote and reach a wider audience. Encouraging international collaborations can be a boon to this. Additionally, bringing more diversity in the industry in terms of scripts and actors is extremely important. Perhaps these measures can make a good start.