While Indian “saas-bahu” serials, like Anupama, continue to enjoy high ratings, there’s a newer trend among Indian viewers who’ve developed a keen interest in Pakistani dramas, particularly since the COVID-19 lockdown. Though political tensions between India and Pakistan remain high, these dramas have managed to capture the hearts of audiences on both sides of the border. With their cultural resonance, grounded realism, and polished Urdu dialogue, Pakistani dramas have become a compelling alternative to Indian serials.
The growing love for these shows isn’t confined to borders; many of them, such as Suno Chanda, have millions of views on platforms like YouTube, where they enjoy a broad international following. This demonstrates not just the reach of Pakistani entertainment but its universal appeal.
Cultural Similarity and Realism
One of the main reasons Pakistani dramas resonate so deeply with Indian audiences is their relatability to North Indian culture. Pakistani dramas usually tackle everyday issues: family conflicts, social norms, and personal struggles. They’re a refreshing change from the drawn-out and sometimes overly dramatic plots of many Indian serials, often concluding within 20 to 40 episodes. This brevity enhances viewer satisfaction by delivering a complete, compelling story without overstaying its welcome.
Take, for instance, Suno Chanda, a drama that aired for only 30 episodes, each under 40 minutes. Its engaging storyline and relatable characters gained widespread attention, especially as its entire series became available on YouTube. The show has amassed over 700 million views across all episodes, demonstrating its cross-border appeal.
Strong Female Leads and Relatable Characters
Another distinct feature of Pakistani dramas is their focus on female-centric narratives. Shows like Zindagi Gulzar Hai and Humsafar depict strong female protagonists who grapple with societal pressures and patriarchy—issues that are just as relevant in India. Characters in these dramas often portray realistic relationships and emotional depth.
Currently, Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum, starring Hania Aamir as Sharjeena and Fahad Mustafa as Mustafa, is capturing hearts with its natural and grounded performances. Sharjeena, an educated and ambitious woman, is portrayed as a resourceful, intelligent character who works to support her family financially—adding a layer of independence and empowerment that resonates well with modern audiences. Their on-screen chemistry and banter have inspired Indian fans to post lighthearted messages on social media, inviting the characters to “stay in Delhi” if things go south for them on the show.
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Artistic Integrity and Quality Production
The production quality of Pakistani dramas also sets them apart. From wardrobe choices to set design, these shows emphasize aesthetics that complement the storyline rather than distract from it. Costumes often reflect traditional styles, while the sets are designed to mirror the characters’ everyday lives, creating an immersive experience that’s visually appealing yet understated.
In Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum, for example, simple, elegant costumes and thoughtfully chosen background music enhance the drama’s emotional depth. The restraint in production reflects a desire to focus on narrative integrity, something that audiences find refreshing compared to the often extravagant and flashy set designs seen in Indian dramas.
Resonance of Pakistani Music
Music is a central element that Pakistani dramas have mastered, using it to heighten emotions and create memorable moments. Pakistani music often evokes nostalgia, love, and sorrow, with Urdu and Punjabi lyrics that deeply resonate with listeners. In Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum, the song Chal Diye Tum Kahan Pe captures a sense of longing and regret, while Sajna Da Dil Torya, written by Tehzeeb Hafi, has become a fan favourite due to its heartfelt lyrics on lost love. Songs like Afreen Afreen, Tajdar-e-Haram, and Tera Woh Pyar (Nawazishein Karam) are well-known in India, reflecting the enduring appeal of Pakistani music across borders.
Modernism in Pakistani Dramas
In Pakistan, TV dramas have grown with the country’s media landscape, from early state-run channels to today’s privately owned networks like Geo TV, ARY Digital, and Hum TV. These channels, influenced by Western media, incorporate modern themes while maintaining cultural authenticity. Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum exemplifies this balance, weaving in traditional values while exploring contemporary issues. The character dynamics in this series reflect both Westernized lifestyles and the more conservative aspects of Pakistani society, making it relatable to a broad audience.
While some dramas focus on romance and love, others engage with deeper social issues such as domestic abuse, women’s rights, and education. This progressive storytelling is not only engaging but also thought-provoking for viewers, regardless of nationality.
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The Power of Social Media
Social media has played a pivotal role in popularizing Pakistani dramas in India. The accessible, bite-sized content available on Instagram and YouTube has helped bridge cultural gaps, sparking conversations and collaborations between artists and fans. When Diljit Dosanjh spotted Hania Aamir in the audience during his London concert and invited her on stage, it symbolized the warmth and mutual respect that exists between the entertainment industries of both countries.
Final Thoughts
Pakistani dramas continue to captivate Indian audiences with their realistic narratives, cultural familiarity, and strong, relatable characters. Shows like Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum showcase how these dramas can resonate on a profound level, transcending national boundaries and encouraging cultural exchange. Despite the complexities of Indo-Pak relations, Pakistani dramas have proven that art can bridge divides, bringing people together in appreciation of storytelling, music, and shared cultural values. As more Indian audiences tune in, it’s clear that the power of these dramas extends far beyond entertainment—they are helping to foster cross-border connections in a region often marred by division.
For now, the appeal of Pakistani dramas in India continues to grow, and with each new release, they remind us of the potential of art to unite, inspire, and uplift.