Pakistani drama serials to binge on in September

Pakistani drama serials have raised the bar this year with quality content that is not just relatable but also thought-provoking and culturally resonant. The television screen this September is a treasure trove of unmissable storylines that feature stunning landscapes, offer humour, challenges norms, and give way to unexpected relationships.

Without further ado, here are the top television drama serials on air to watch this month and why each one of them deserves a prime spot on your watch list:

1. Jhok Sarkar

Airs every Tuesday at 8:00 PM on HUM TV

For the audience exhausted with drama serials featuring run-of-the-mill stories, Jhok Sarkar is one to watch. The drama centres around Arsalan, played by Farhaan Saeed. Arsalan is a dedicated by-the-book police officer in the lawless land of Jhok Siyaal. The story truly kicks off when Arsalan receives a tip about illegal border crossing and ends up shooting a man named Jeevan, who tries to escape. Jeevan’s death shocks everyone, including Sassi (played by Hiba Bukhari) and her father, Meeral (played by Usman Javed), and Jahan Dad (played by Malik Raza). Meeral and Peeral (played by Asif Raza Mir) use Jeevan’s death to create problems for Arsalan and initiate an inquiry against him, despite Arsalan’s guilt and remorse.

This is a saga of corruption, family, and love. The gripping and well-written script paired with effective direction make Jhok Sarkar a must-watch.

2. Yunhi

Airs on HUM TV every Sunday at 8:00 PM

Yunhi is the mouthpiece for the modern-day Pakistani woman. The drama showcases exceptional chemistry between Kaneez Fatima aka Kim, played by Maya Ali, and Dawood, played by Bilal Ashraf. The two have been brought together in an arranged marriage by their elders, as is the norm in Pakistani culture. However, Kim, an American-born and raised, challenges the conservative mindset of her new family.

Watch this drama not only for the chemistry between the two characters but for the importance of challenging traditions and beliefs that may no longer be relevant in today’s global world. Bonus points to Yunhi for being an aspiration to many women who struggle with similar issues but are unable to voice them.

3. Fairy Tale 2

Airs every Saturday at 8:00 PM on HUM TV

In a television screen chock-full of weighty topics, Fairy Tale 2 offers the audience a true breath of fresh air. The urban drama navigates modern-day families and their dynamics, perfectly resonating with the average Pakistani.

What works immensely for Fairy Tale 2 is the simple dialogue coupled with believable scenarios. The cherry on top is the nuanced yet localized comedy style, exceptional storytelling, and the dynamic chemistry between Farjad (played by Hamza Sohail) and Umeed Pasha (played by Sehar Khan).

The debut season of Fairy Tale originally premiered during Ramzan and garnered tremendous success, which prompted Momina Duraid Productions to greenlight a second season.

4. Neem

Airs every Monday at 8:00 PM on HUM TV

Set in the beautiful backdrop of Kashmir, Neem is a drama that offers a blend of stunning landscapes and an inspiring plotline that delves deep into pressing social issues, with outstanding performances that leave a lasting impact on the audience.

Neem kicks off with Mawra Hocane’s portrayal of Zimmal, a dynamic character who advocates for enhancing literacy in her community. Zimmal is an intellectual girl with big dreams for her small village. We see incredible performances by Ameer Gillani as Ashaad, Arsalan Naseer as Shazil, and Syed Jibran as Karamat Khan.

Occasionally, the drama tends to veer into moments that may feel preachy and may not always align with real-world practicality. Nevertheless, it paints an aspirational picture of an ideal scenario. Despite these minor quirks, Neem shines bright among the rest of its competitors, offering content for a social cause.

5. Mohabbat Gumshuda Meri

Airs every Friday at 8:00 PM on HUM TV

Mohabbat Gumshuda Meri is an absolute treat for the younger audience. The story revolves around the intertwined lives of two best friends and neighbours, Zobia, played by Dananeer, and Saim, played by Khushal Khan, who are in their twenties. Zobia is the youngest in her family and navigates familial restrictions to live life on her own terms. Meanwhile, Saim is a talented young man with big dreams of pursuing music as a career. The drama explores themes of teenage friendships, college romances, misunderstandings, and the innocence of teenage relationships. We experience the camaraderie of friendship and family through this tale. It also portrays the challenges faced by young people in a traditional society, where strict family norms and gender roles are incorrigible.

The drama has received the love of the audiences for its epic portrayal of everyday life and relationships.

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