Our list of 5 best Pakistani dramas 2023 edition

With all the great drama content produced in 2023, it is not a mean feat to pick the five best Pakistani dramas of 2023, but we gave it a shot. We have only included dramas that ended in 2023, so don’t be surprised if you don’t see some currently airing heavy hitters like Mannat Murad, Jaan e Jahan, and Ishq Murshid in the list. So, without further ado, our top Pakistani dramas of 2023 are:

1. Kabli Pulao: This drama series revolves around the life of an Afghan girl named Barbeena, who comes to Pakistan and meets Haji Mushtaq, a shopkeeper who helps her out. They eventually get married but face many cultural and social differences. The dramedy also shows the awkward situations that arise from Barbeena’s interactions with Haji Mushtaq’s family and friends. On a deeper level, the drama explores themes of culture shock and loneliness. The cast of Kabli Pulao includes Abdullah Farhatullah, Nadia Afghan, Sabeena Farooq, Adnan Shah, and Mohammed Ehteshamuddin. The drama is directed by Kashif Nisar and written by Zafar Mairaj. it aired on Green Entertainment.
2. Jannat se Aagay: This drama came out of left field. It caught us unawares and then reeled us in. The plot revolves around Tabassum Mughal, a girl from a middle-income household who is a fan of Jannat Ali Khan, a celebrity morning show host. Tabassum’s family is plagued with money problems. Jannat struggles to balance her work and home life, and grapples with maintaining a healthy relationship with her husband. Tabassum comes to know that Jannat needs a nanny and she wants the job. The drama serial offers a unique plot and boasts a seminal cast, which includes Kubra Khan, Ramsha Khan, Gohar Rasheed, Talha Chahour, and others. The drama is directed by Haseeb Hasan and written by Umera Ahmed. It aired on Geo TV.
3. Razia: This eponymous mini-series tells the story of Razia, an independent woman who rebels against the feudal system and deeply entrenched patriarchy. She is married to a cruel landlord, Nawab, who lords over her. She escapes from his clutches and joins a group of rebels, who are fighting for the rights of the oppressed. She becomes a symbol of resistance and courage for the people. The cast of Razia includes Mahira Khan, Moomal Sheikh, and Mohib Mirza. The drama is written and directed by Mohsin Ali. It aired on Express Entertainment.
4. Jaisay Aapki Marzi: JAM ended in December 2023, just in time to make the list. The drama revolves around the impact of patriarchy and societal pressures on women’s choices. It also explores the internalizing and normalization of negative behaviors. The drama follows the story of Alizay, who marries Sheheryar, a narcissistic and abusive man. Right from the get-go she struggles to assert her rights and identity. There is a serious power imbalance in their relationship. The cast of characters includes Durefishan Saleem as Alizay, Mikaal Zulfiqar as Sheheryar, Kiran Malik as Natasha, and Jawed Sheikh. The drama also touches upon the importance of self-respect and self-worth. Jaisay Aapki Marzi has been praised for its solid performances, especially by Durefishan Saleem and Mikaal Zulfiqar. It is directed by Saba Hameed and written by Naila Zehra Jafri. It aired on ARY Digital. Read the recap of the last episode here.
5. Meher Mah: Meher Mah’s plot revolves around the lives of Ruhi and Ruhail, who meet during a bus journey. Ruhi is a down-to-earth girl who lives with her abusive stepmother and stepsister. Ruhail is a well-to-do businessman who falls in love with Ruhi at first sight. Unfortunately, because of misunderstandings, they face many problems. The drama explores the issues of violence, abuse, greed, jealousy, and betrayal that affect many people in society. It also highlights the importance of trust, honesty, forgiveness, and respect in relationships. The cast of Meher Mah includes Hira Mani, Affan Waheed, Fariya Hassan, and Salman Saeed. Najaf Bilgrami directs the frame and Akhtar Qayyum is the writer. It aired on Express Entertainment.