omedy dramas in Pakistan attempt to balance insult comedy with a deeper meaning. The recent trend of Ramazan dramas follows this formula, with Suno Chanda being the show that started it all. Its success led to the release of similar Ramazan specials, such as Chupkay Chupkay and Tanaa Banaa. This year, we have Paristan gracing our screens.

Aymen Saleem and Arslan Naseer star in leading roles after having good chemistry and camaraderie on-screen in previous roles. Mira Sethi and Ali Safina also have leading roles. They were previously part of Chupkay Chupkay as well. Junaid Jamshed Niazi, Merub Ali, Javeria Saud and Rayyan Fawad are the new talent.

The story follows Pernian, played by Aymen Saleem. She is a bit of an over-thinker who tries to make the best of her situation while living at her uncle’s house, which is a source of comic relief throughout the series. Viewers are introduced to her paternal aunt, played by Javeria Saud. She is a quintessential Pakistani phupho, who can be very stingy at times. There is a stark contrast between her loud and brash personality and her daughter’s kind and jovial nature. Her daughter Ujala, played by Merub Ali is very close to Pernian and they get into hilarious situations together.

The overall performance of the cast is very animated, especially Javeria Saud who usually takes on more serious roles. However, due to the light-hearted nature of Ramazan dramas, the over-the-top acting works well and provides an easy medium for hilarity to ensue. 

Arsam, who appears to be Pernian’s love-interest, is played by Arslan Naseer. He has a stern and serious personality, as he has a lot of responsibility on his shoulders. He lives with his grandmother and his orphaned niece and nephew and feels a strong sense of obligation towards them. The character of Amanullah is meant to provide a contrast against Arsam’s serious personality. He provides a steady source of laughs and funny antics.

The overall performance of the cast is very animated, especially Javeria Saud’s who usually takes on more serious roles. However, due to the light-hearted nature of Ramazan dramas, the over-the-top acting works well and provides an easy medium for hilarity to ensue.

The return of Aymen Saleem on-screen has boosted viewership for this series as well, and Merub Ali’s performance is bright and uplifting. Paristan is an easy to watch, bite size dose of comic relief, and it is good for what it is. With only a few episodes left, the Eid finale is not to be missed if you have followed the story thus far.

The author is a fashion graduate.