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.
Actor Bilal Abbas Khan has made a name for himself as a fearless and versatile actor who continually challenges barriers in the roles he chooses (we obviously love him). He is now preparing himself to captivate audiences in ‘Mann Jogi.’
Here are the five of Bilal Abbas’ most unforgettable performances:
O’ Rangreza
Bilal played a tough character in O’ Rangreza. The drama is about a man who is obsessed with a famous actress and treats his wife badly. His daughter tries to win his approval by copying the actress and being the perfect child. The drama is written by Saji Gul and directed by Kashif Nisar.
Cheekh
Cheekh is written by Zanjabeel Asim Shah and directed by Badar Mehmood, The main plot of Cheekh is the trials and tribulations of a woman, Mannat, who seeks justice for the murder of her friend, Nayyab. Bilal Abbas Khan delivered a remarkable performance, showcasing his range and depth as an actor. His character, Wajih Taseer, remains one of his most memorable roles, alongside seasoned actors Saba Qamar. Bilal also got nominated for Best Actor at the Hum Style Awards for his role.
Pyar Ke Sadqay
The story of Pyar Ke Saday is of Abdullah and Mahjabeen, who are madly in love with each other and attempt to overcome several challenges while trying to be together . They come together in the unexpected arranged marriage. The drama is written by Zanjabeel Asim Shah and directed by Farooq Rind. Bilal played the character of Abdullah, a sensitive and emotional young man.
Ishq Murshid
Bilal Abbas’s recent hit drama Ishq Murshid can’t be missed. He played two characters in the drama as Shameer Sikander and Fazal Baksh. Abbas played both characters really well. The drama received was a huge success, reaching the highest TRP and massive views on YouTube. Bilal and Dur-e-Fishan Saleem (Shibra) chemistry was praised and loved by fans. Ishq Murshid is written by Abdul Khaliq Khan and directed by Farooq Rind.
Mann Jogi An upcoming drama, Bilal will be appearing along with Sabeena Farooq and Mirza Gohar Rasheed. Bilal will be playing the role of a spiritual leader in Mann Jogi. The drama is written by acclaimed writer Zafar Mairaj and directed by Kashif Nisar.
The drama ‘Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum’ has introduced Fahad Mustafa and Hania Aamir to viewers as a new couple. Since opposites usually attract, Hania and Fahad are playing opposing roles to each other. The story of ‘Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum’ is drawing in viewers and developing quickly. After getting married, Mustafa and Sharjeena are trying to move ahead.
Mustafa helps Sharjeena adjust into his home by becoming more kind and helpful despite his casual careless attitude. Their bond is interesting to watch.
The main plot of the drama revolves around the concept of opposites attracting, where Hania, aka Sharjeena, portrays the role of a bibliophile and class topper with a practical approach, while Fahad’s character is a little laid-back.
‘Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum’ airs every Monday and Tuesday at 8:00 PM on ARY Digital. The drama is written by Farhat Ishtiaq, directed by Badar Mehmood and produced by Big Bang Entertainment.
Fans are loving the chemistry between the lead actors, especially in episode 8. Here are some reactions from viewers:
In recent years, the Pakistani film industry has experienced an incredible comeback, which led to a number of hit movies that have captivated viewers both locally and globally.
Despite facing challenges, Pakistani cinema has produced many great films that people love. Here are the top ten highest-grossing Pakistani films:
The Legend of Maula Jatt
The Legend of Maula Jatt was released in 25 countries, making it the highest and widest-ever release for any Pakistani or Punjabi film yet, with a worldwide box-office gross of more than Rs. four billion. Maula Jatt in Pakistan has earned over 121 crore. The film is written by Bilal Lashari, Nasir Adib, and directed by Bilal Lashari. Featuring Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan, the film has set a new benchmark for Pakistani cinema with its stunning visuals and gripping storyline.
Jawani Phir Nahi Ani 2
Jawani Phir Nahi Ani 2 did well at the Pakistani box office. It crossed over Rs. 70.35 crores. People loved the film’s direction, script, cast, and performances. It was a huge success for the revival of the film industry.
London Nahi Jaunga
London Nahi Jaunga was also a successful film and the film gave tough competition to Bollywood film Shamshera, which was released after London Nahi Jaunga. The film’s worldwide collection was Rs. 53.58 crores, and in Pakistan it collected 29.48 crores at the box office. The film is written by writer Khalil Ur Rehman Qamar and directed by Nadeem Baig.
Punjab Nahi Jaungi
Punjab Nahi Jaungi is a rom-com that stars Humayun Saeed and Mehwish Hayat alongside Urwa Hocane. It recorded the biggest bang in a single day for any Pakistani film with a collection of Rs. 2.80 crores and then a worldwide gross over Rs. 51.65 crores.
Jawani Phir Nahi Ani
Jawani Phir Nahi Ani, the first movie in the Jawani series made a worldwide gross of Rs. 49.44 crores. The film stars Humayun Saeed, Hamza Ali Abbasi, Ahmad Ali Butt, Vasay Chaudhry, and Mehwish Hayat. The film is written by Vasay Chaudhry and directed by Nadeem Baig.
Parwaaz Hai Junoon
Parwaaz Hai Junoon includes Hamza Ali Abbasi, Ahad Raza Mir, Hania Aamir, and Kubra Khan. The film, which is a tribute to the Pakistan Air Force, made a worldwide gross of Rs. 43.20 crores. The film is written by Farhat Ishtiaq and directed by Haseeb Hassan.
Quaid-e-Azam Zindabad
Quaid-e-Azam Zindabad stars Fahad Mustafa and Mahira Khan. It was an action-comedy film that made a collection of Rs. 42.05 crores. Written and directed by Nabeel Qureshi and Fizza Ali Mirza.
Teefa in Trouble
Teefa in Trouble, which includes Ali Zafar and Maya Ali, was overall good in the box office collection. The total collection of the film was Rs. 50.3 crores. Directed by Ahsan Rahim and written by Ali Zafar, Ahsan Rahim, and Danyal Zafar.
Bin Roye
Bin Roye stars Humayun Saeed, Mahira Khan, Armeena Khan, and Zeba Bakhtiar. The film is based on the novel Bin Roye Ansoo by Farhat Ishtiaq. Bin Roye was praised by critics and became the sixth highest-grossing Pakistani film. The worldwide collection of the film was Rs. 40.5 crore.
Wrong No. 2
Wrong No. 2, which is a romantic comedy film, features Sami Khan, Neelum Muneer, Javed Sheikh, and Mehmood Aslam. The worldwide revenue of Wrong No. 2 was Rs. 21.75 crores. The film is directed and written by Yasir Nawaz.
These films are representative of the diversity of storylines and the talented skill in Pakistani cinema, as well as audience interest in local film content. Pakistani films are earning their due place and pulling people into cinemas.
Usman Riaz’s first hand-drawn animated film, The Glassworker, made a successful debut with more than Rs 10 million collected at the box office in its opening weekend. The movie has created interest among people of all age groups and brought audiences to Pakistani cinemas.
The Glassworker is produced by Geo Films and directed by Usman Riaz and Mairam Riaz Paracha. The film showcases Riaz’s unique storytelling and artistic vision in the Studio Ghibli style. The film became a success story and is a new chapter in Pakistani cinema, after Geo Films’ previous hits like Khuda Kay Liye, Teefa in Trouble, The Legend of Maula Jatt, and The Donkey King.
In an interview with BBC, the writer and director of The Glassworker talked about how many years it took to make the film.
“These 10 years for me have just been purely driven with passion and obsession. The film’s production took four years, but the entire journey took 10 years. I was 23 when I started, and I am 33 now,” Usman Riaz added.
The Glassworker was released on July 26, 2024 all across Pakistan.
Director Asim Abbasi sent a clear message to the critics of his web series ‘Barzakh’. Asim Abbasi shared a picture of the show on his Instagram story, where a person replied saying, “Please don’t add more to the fire by saying he ‘chose’ Saifu. They’re asking to boycott the show, and you’re giving them more reasons to so it. Glorifying these characters in the name of art is distasteful. It was wrong churails, its wrong here.”
On which Asim Abbasi, who is also the writer of Barzakh, replied, “With all due respect, if you find queer non-heteronormative storylines distasteful please do not watch my content.” Fawad Khan is playing the characters Saifullah and Lorenzo. The statement comes in response to a scene in episode 3 featuring an almost kissing moment between two male characters.
Asim Abbasi tagged the producers of web series with the caption on his story, “Shailja Kejriwal Waqas Ali and I will always champion rights of all, and tell stories that we believe in.”
The main plot of Barzakh is to explore the mysteries of life, the afterlife, and the enduring power of love. Set in the beautiful Hunza Valley, the story follows a 76-year-old recluse who invites his estranged children and grandchildren to his remote valley resort for a special event his wedding to the ghost of his first true love.
Today, we celebrate talented and beloved actress Yumna Zaidi 35th birthday. To pay tribute on her birthday, here are the top five dramas that impacted her career.
Dar Si Jati Hai Sila
Yumna played the role of Sila, a young girl haunted by the trauma of harassment. Her strong performance as the voice of victims echoed in the hearts of viewers. The drama is written by Bee Gul and directed by Kashif Nisar.
Inkaar
The role of Hajra, a strong-headed woman battling for justice after being brutally attacked, showed Yumna’s range as an actress. The drama was applauded for its hard hitting storyline and a powerful performance that brings to light the issues which most women face in the society. The drama is written by Zafar Mairaj and directed by Kashif Nisar
Pyar Ke Sadqay
She played the role of Mahjabeen in a drama that revolves around the story of two innocents who fall in love. It is written by Zanjabeel Asim Shah and directed by Farooq Rind.
Bakhtawar
It is an inspiring drama in which Yumna plays Bakhtawar’s role, a young lady with a stubborn resolve to change her fate and to fight against all odds in society. It is written by Nadia Akhtar and directed by Shahid Shafaat
Dil Na Umeed To Nahin
The talented powerhouse played Sumbul in the drama, a young girl who became an easy target for human traffickers. The drama is scripted by Amna Mufti and directed by Kashif Nisar.
Episode 12 of ‘Zard Patton Ka Bunn’ tries to highlight the beautiful relationship between Meenu, played by Sajal Aly and her father, played by Syed Tanveer Hussain. Even when Meenu gets into trouble, her father stands up for her and shows he is on her side. And that is where the episode gets very weird.
When Meenu notices Dr. Nofil struggling to get a signal in the village, she comes up with a creative solution. She builds a ladder leading up to a tree, allowing Dr. Nofil to climb up and get better reception. In episode 12, Meenu’s good deed was overshadowed by a dispute with village children. While passing by the tree one day, she spots kids climbing the ladder and orders them to come down. But when they refuse, Meenu loses her temper and starts hitting them. A group of people go towards Meenu’s home after the incident to confront her.
Meenu’s father stands up for her even though she has done something wrong and he tells his daughter not to worry and that he’s always there for her. This makes Meenu feel safe and strong.
The angle the story has taken is questionable. A father’s love for his daughter can be depicted without showing violence on children. Meenu comes across as petulant and frankly, a very negative character. Her father’s love seems more like an unwillingness to accept his daughter’s fault.
Zard Patton Ka Bunn is written by Mustafa Afridi and directed by Saife Hassan, and it’s a collaboration production of Kashf Foundation & Momina Duraid Productions.
Episode 5 of ‘Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum’ is winning hearts with its unexpected twists and engaging storyline. The drama features Fahad Mustafa and Hania Aamir in lead roles.
Mustafa and Sharjeena’s wedding night scene has gone viral. Fans can’t stop talking about the emotional and memorable moment on social media. It’s the most talked-about scene right now. Mustafa, played by Fahad Mustafa, makes a spontaneous decision to help Sharjeena, played by Hania Aamir, leading to their sudden marriage. The twist came up when Mustafa, who wasn’t prepared for the responsibilities of marriage, finds himself in a state of confusion as they return home.
The episode shows the couples’ different personalities on full display, making for a hilarious and heartwarming start to their new life together.
The main plot of the drama revolves around the concept of opposites attract, where Hania, aka Sharjeena, portrays the role of a bibliophile and class topper with a practical approach, while Fahad’s character is a little laid-back.
‘Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum’ airs every Monday and Tuesday at 8:00 PM on ARY Digital. The drama is written by Farhat Ishtiaq, directed by Badar Mehmood and produced by Big Bang Entertainment. Will they find love amidst the chaos, or will their differences tear them apart? Let’s see what happens in the next episode. Here are a few shots of episode 05:
A sea-facing bungalow on Pali Hill, Mumbai, belonging to the late Bollywood thespian Dilip Kumar, has been sold for Indian 175 crores. What was previously his sea-facing residence has now turned into an opulent triplex apartment.
Apco Infratech Private Limited has purchased a triplex apartment spanning the 9th, 10th, and 11th floors of a newly redeveloped building. All in all, the flat has a huge carpet area of 9,527 square feet, which was bought at a premium price of Indians INR1.62 lakh per square foot. The sale was even costlier with a registration cost of INR 30,000 and a whopping stamp duty of 9.3 crore. In 1966, after he married Saira Banu, Dilip Kumar moved out of the house he had bought in September 1953.
