Mehreen Jabbar on budgets of Indian television series versus Pakistani drama serials

ehreen Jabbar, a celebrated and distinguished director of Pakistani dramas and films, is widely recognized for her invaluable contributions to the entertainment industry. For over two decades, she has delivered some of the most memorable and influential content to Pakistani television and cinema.

Her body of work includes beloved drama serials such as Daam, Doraha, and Mata-e-Jaan Hai Tu, which continue to resonate with audiences, long after their original airings. The acclaimed director recently returned to television with her new drama Nadaan, a series that explores the dark underbelly of the drug trade. The series stars Ahmed Ali Akbar and Ramsha khan in lead roles. Furthermore, she dropped a hint about a new project she’s looking forward to in 2025.

In a recent interview, Mehreen reflected on the growing international success of Pakistani dramas and drew attention to the key differences between Pakistani and Indian content. She remarked that India began producing large-scale series, such as Sacred Games, in response to the show’s tremendous success. Mehreen also highlighted the vast discrepancy in production budgets between the two countries. She noted that while Indian series can afford to allocate up to a million dollars per episode, Pakistani dramas often operate on a budget of just 30 lakh rupees per episode (approximately $70,000). Despite these financial limitations, Mehreen proudly emphasized Pakistan’s ability to consistently produce exceptional and high-quality content within these constrained resources. Mehreen Jabbar has also directed a slate of films including Ramchand Pakistani and Dobara Phir Se.

Sunn Mere Dil praised for friendly mother-daughter bonding

Sunn Mere Dil, a popular drama serial on Geo TV, boasts an impressive ensemble cast, featuring renowned actors such as Maya Ali, Wahaj Ali, Amar Khan, Hira Mani, Usama Khan, Saba Hameed, Shavir Kadwani, and Muhammad Ahmed. Written by Khalil Ur Rehman Qamar and directed by Haseeb Hassan, the drama is produced by 7th Sky Entertainment Productions.

The storyline revolves around Bilal Abdullah (Wahaj Ali), a businessman who takes care of his late father’s expansive enterprises and falls in love with Sadaf (Maya Ali).

However, the show’s notable feature is the heartwarming and progressive portrayal of the bond between Sadaf and her mother. So far, two episodes of Sunn Mere Dil have aired on Geo TV, and the show has already garnered praise for its captivating plot and relatable characters. Audiences are particularly drawn to the open and honest communication between Sadaf (Maya Ali) and her mother (Saba Hameed), as well as the mother’s supportive and understanding nature. In the first two episodes, Sadaf shares her classmate’s proposal with her mother, expressing her disinterest in marrying him. The mother’s practical yet protective stance has also resonated with viewers, who appreciate her refusal to pressure Sadaf into accepting any proposal. Fans are lauding Saba Hameed’s remarkable performance, noting how her portrayal of the mother adds depth and nuance to the drama.

Mishi Khan And Iffat Omar clash on social media

ffat Omar and Mishi Khan, two actresses known for their unfiltered opinions, have found themselves embroiled in a social media showdown dramatic enough to rival any soap opera. The feud ignited over allegations of assault against a minor at a Lahore college—a story disturbing enough on its own. However, as the actresses wade into the debate, they’ve taken opposing stances: Iffat Omar argues that misinformation has further inflamed an already sensitive situation, while Mishi Khan demands justice for the alleged victim, scorched-earth style, ready to torch anything—or anyone—in her way.

In a tweet, Omar remarked, “Trust me, she is not wrong,” subtly endorsing the government’s response. Khan, on the other hand, disregarded subtlety entirely, launching an outright verbal storm, telling Omar to “Tum dafa ho aur apni bakwas band karo…Tuchi ghatiya bhangan.” (Translating this one would be a full-time job.) While Khan’s passion is admirable, her choice of words could perhaps use a touch of finesse—though, admittedly, her insult aimed at Omar carries an undeniable zing. Some might even say her creative flair in hurling insults deserves its own award category at the next Lux Style Awards.

In a world where online spats have become almost a rite of passage for celebrities and the general public alike, a bit of civility wouldn’t go amiss. That said, you can’t deny that her words pack a memorable punch, perhaps even one that Omar might secretly admire (were she not on the receiving end). Both actresses might benefit from taking a page out of ‘Miss Manners’ on keeping things civil. With Khan’s auntie-style outbursts and Omar’s icy retorts, their publicists may soon be considering referee whistles as essential office tools. At this rate, who’s to say they won’t inspire an entirely new genre—‘Celebrity Takedowns: Social Media Edition’, complete with theatrical hashtags, popcorn-worthy confrontations, and all the Twitter drama Pakistan has been missing. And if they do, here’s hoping they livestream the season finale, because this face-off has ‘cult classic’ written all over it.

Yasir Hussain teases Sonya Hussyn on social media

asir Hussain, a Pakistani host, actor, comedian, writer, and director, made his debut with the successful film, Karachi Say Lahore. His other notable projects include Lahore Say Aagay, Siwaiyaan, Shadi Mubarak, Badshah Begum, Baandi, Baaghi, and Taxali Gate. In addition to acting, Yasir has also directed acclaimed dramas like Koel and Aik Thi Laila. He is married to actress Iqra Aziz, and together they share a son. In other words, Yasir Hussain has risen to become one of the industry’s leading stars.

Recently, Yasir took to Instagram to post a picture of himself donning a maroon Ajrak shirt paired with white trousers, offering a perfect blend of Eastern and Western fashion. Sonya Hussyn, one of Yasir’s closest friends, praised his look and jokingly asked if she could borrow the outfit. She wrote, “Pyari Baji, can I borrow this outfit for a day, pretty please?”

Yasir, knowing Sonya’s preference for bold outfits, playfully responded, “Oh liar, since when have you started wearing full clothes?” Sonya, keeping up with the banter, reacted by sending angry emojis, continuing their playful and lighthearted exchange.

This playful back-and-forth camaraderie not only underscores the bond they share but also emphasizes the humor and mutual respect that Yasir and Sonya share, both in their personal lives and on screen. The two often engage with each other on social media, bringing joy to fans who eagerly follow their exchanges as a refreshing glimpse into the lives of their favorite stars.

Nadia Khan’s insensitive remarks about depression

adia Khan, a prominent Pakistani television actor and host, often finds herself in the spotlight due to her unfiltered and often insensitive remarks about individuals and social issues. Currently, she is making several television appearances where she shares her thoughts on dramas, fellow actors, and her personal acquaintances.

Nadia Khan recently faced significant public criticism after she made disparaging comments about a young girl suffering from depression during an episode of Good Morning Pakistan. The segment quickly went viral on various social media platforms. During the show, Nadia Khan recalled her encounter with a girl, but instead of demonstrating empathy, she mocked the girl’s behaviour, voicing her irritation over their conversation at a birthday party where they had met.

Psychiatrist Doctor Hira later shared the segment and criticized Nadia Khan for her lack of sensitivity. Doctor Hira emphasized the importance of discussing depression with the gravity it deserves, rather than ridiculing it on live television. As a consequence of her thoughtless remarks, Nadia Khan is now facing severe public backlash. Many individuals are infuriated by her flippant demeanor toward a serious mental health issue during a live broadcast. Social media users contend that trivializing depression can be extremely triggering for those who are affected by it. Netizens have suggested that celebrities like Nadia, who lack education on mental health issues, should not be given a platform on television.