Bollywood movies and actors have always been immensely popular in Pakistan. However, recent years have witnessed Pakistani dramas gaining popularity among Indian viewers. This trend began in 2014 with the launch of Zindagi, a channel dedicated to showcasing content from Pakistan and other South Asian countries. Zindagi introduced Indian audiences to iconic shows like 'Zindagi Gulzar Hai' and 'Humsafar,' which developed a devoted Indian fan base. Following the 2016 Uri terror attack, the channel stopped airing Pakistani content.
The rise of digital streaming platforms amplified the reach of Pakistani dramas. Platforms like ZEE5 and YouTube offer a wide variety of Pakistani shows, making them easily accessible to Indian viewers. The popularity of Pakistani dramas in India can be attributed to a unique blend of factors. Firstly, the two countries share a rich cultural and linguistic heritage. This cultural proximity allows viewers to connect with the stories and characters on a deeper level. In contrast to Indian soap operas that can stretch storylines for hundreds of episodes, Pakistani dramas tend to be more concise, keeping the audience engaged. Many Indian viewers find the storylines and portrayal of emotions in Pakistani dramas to be more relatable compared to the more dramatic elements often seen in Indian soap operas.
Here are the top 10 Pakistani dramas, based on user ratings on IMDb, and where you can watch them:
Pyare Afzal (2013-2014)
Rating: 9.0
Where to watch: YouTube
Pyarey Afzal starring Hamza Ali Abbasi and Ayeza Khan, tells the unconventional love story of Afzal and Farah. Afzal, a carefree gambler, falls for Farah. Their journey takes a dramatic turn when Farah hires him to pose as her boyfriend, hoping to convince her parents to call off her arranged marriage. Pyarey Afzal was a hit due to its unique storyline.
Zindagi Gulzar Hai (2012-2013)
Rating: 8.9
Where to watch: YouTube
Zindagi Gulzar Hai follows the journey of Kashaf Murtaza, a headstrong, independent woman played by Sanam Saeed, and Zaroon Junaid, a privileged man portrayed by Fawad Khan. The show became a cultural phenomenon owing to its actors, strong female protagonist, storyline.
Humsafar (2011-2012)
Rating: 8.9
Where to watch: YouTube
The show features the sizzling on-screen chemistry between Mahira Khan as Khirad, and Fawad Khan as Ashar. Their paths intertwine when Khirad is forced into an arranged marriage with his cousin Ashar. Humsafar became a phenomenal success story. Its popularity transcended borders, garnering a massive fan following in India and across South Asia. Humsafar remains a landmark Pakistani drama.
Suno Chanda (2018)
Rating: 8.8
Where to watch: Zee5
This Pakistani rom-com drama stars Farhan Saeed as Arsalan, a laid-back, traditional young man, and Iqra Aziz as Ajiya, an ambitious career-oriented woman. Living under the same roof as cousins-turned-spouses, Arsalan and Ajiya clash constantly due to their contrasting personalities. Audiences loved the playful banter between the lead couple, portrayal of family dynamics, and the exploration of love blossoming amidst unexpected circumstances. Its success spawned a sequel, Suno Chanda 2, which was also a hit.
Hum Tum (2022)
Rating: 8.7
Where To Watch: YouTube
A modern take on the classic "enemies-to-lovers" trope, Hum Tum (2022) follows Adam (Ahad Raza Mir) and Neha (Ramsha Khan), two university students from neighbouring households with clashing personalities. The show's popularity soared due to its relatable characters, witty dialogues, and the chemistry between the lead actors.
Ishq Murshid (2023-2024)
Rating 8.7
Where to watch: YouTube
The show stars Bilal Abbas Khan as Shahmeer, a politician's son, and Durefishan Saleem as Shibra, a headstrong woman who despises political corruption. The story takes a dramatic turn when Shahmeer, smitten with Shibra's independent spirit, disguises himself as an ordinary man to win her affection. The series finale even received a theatrical release, highlighting the show's popularity among its fans.
Mere Humsafar (2021-2022)
Rating: 8.6
Where to watch: YouTube
The show stars the popular pairing of Farhan Saeed as Hamza and Hania Aamir as Hala, who was raised by her strict aunt in Pakistan after her father left her to his brothers’ family. Hamza and Hala marries each other due to some unforeseen circumstances. It became a ratings juggernaut in Pakistan, trending on social media and amassing over a billion views on YouTube. The show is equally popular in India.
Meray Paas Tum Ho (2019-2020)
Rating: 8.3
Where to watch: YouTube
The show starred Humayun Saeed as Danish, a devoted middle-class husband, and Ayeza Khan as Mehwish, his materialistic wife. Their seemingly perfect life takes a dramatic turn when Mehwish's desire for a luxurious lifestyle makes her leave Danish for Shehryar (played by Adnan Siddiqui), a wealthy businessman. Meray Paas Tum Ho became the first Pakistani drama to trend at number one on Twitter worldwide.
Tere Bin (2022-2023)
Rating: 7.5
Where to watch: YouTube
The show stars Yumna Zaidi as Meerab, an ambitious young woman yearning for higher education, and Wahaj Ali as Murtasim, a brooding businessman bound by family duty.The narrative takes an unexpected turn when their paths collide. Meerab's strong personality clashes with Murtasim's reserved nature. However, fate intervenes, forcing them into an unlikely situation that compels them to pretend to be in love. Tere bin became the most-watched drama of 2021-2023 in Pakistan, consistently topping ratings even during competitive seasons.
Pagalkhana (2024)
Rating: 9
Where to watch: YouTube
It is a relatively new Pakistani drama that just started airing in 2024. The show features a star-studded cast including Saba Qamar as Mahi, Sami Khan as Ahmad, and Momal Sheikh as Adla. The story centers around Mahi, a woman described as fiercely independent and perhaps a bit unconventional and her relationship with Ahmad. Social media is abuzz with discussions and anticipation surrounding the unfolding drama.