Shining Actors

entertainment

Pakistani Television has produced several talented actors who have made a lasting impact with their remarkable performances. Legendary actors such as Khalida Riyasat, Roohi Bano, Uzma Gillani, Khursheed Mirza, Saba Hameed, Rubina Ashraf, Shehnaz Sheikh and Marina Khan raised the bar for acting in television dramas.

Their roles were grounded in realism, allowing them to form a deep connection with the viewers. Roohi Bano became famous for her powerful performances that highlighted serious social issues, while Uzma Gillani earned a reputation for portraying strong and authoritative characters. Shehnaz Sheikh and Marina Khan, through their iconic roles in ‘Tanhaiyan’, brought charm and warmth to the screen. These talented actors not only set high standards for acting but also played a major role in shaping the future of Pakistan Television.

In the 1970s, Roohi Bano stood out with her role in ‘Kiran Kahani’, a drama that captured the essence of love and relationships. Roohi Bano was known for her beauty, elegance, and strong on-screen presence, making her one of the most beloved actors of her time.

Durdana Butt was another actor who made her mark in the 1970s. She is best remembered for her role in ‘Aangan Tehra’, a ground-breaking drama that reflected the social dynamics of our society. Durdana Butt’s acting style was unique, and she became known for her ability to portray both comic and serious roles with equal skill.

Azra Sherwani, another prominent actor of the 1970s, contributed significantly to Pakistan Television, especially with her roles in ‘Uncle Urfi’, ‘Parchaiyan’, ‘Afshan’, ‘Ana’ and ‘Aangan Tehra’. Her performances were loved by the audience, and she became one of the leading faces of the television industry at that time.

Another legendary and versatile actor is Bushra Ansari, who made her mark in the 1980s with ‘Aangan Tehra’ being one of her most famous works. Known for her exceptional range, Bushra Ansari could easily switch between comedy and drama, earning her a special place in the hearts of the viewers.

Over time, the Pakistani television industry has seen significant growth, giving rise to a new generation of stars who have brought fresh energy and talent to the small screen. A pivotal moment in the history of television in Pakistan occurred in the year 2002 with the liberalisation of the media industry.

The government’s decision to open up the media sector allowed private television channels to operate openly, telecasting their own news, current affairs, and entertainment content. Private channels in Pakistan began to emerge in the early 2000s, and have since become a major part of the country’s media landscape.

Actors like Saba Qamar, Sajal Aly, Mahira Khan, Yumna Zaidi, Ayeza Khan, Mehwish Hayat, and Hania Aamir have become the leading faces of contemporary television. Saba Qamar, known for her versatile acting, has played a variety of complex roles in popular dramas such as ‘Baaghi’ and ‘Cheekh’. Sajal Aly, known for her emotional range, has impressed viewers with unforgettable performances in both local and international productions.

Mahira Khan, originally a television sensation, made a successful transition to films but continues to be cherished in the world of television. Yumna Zaidi has made a name for herself with the roles that break traditional stereotypes, while Hania Aamir represents the younger generation, effortlessly combining charm, playfulness, and emotional depth in her roles. Ayeza Khan is a well-loved actor in the Pakistani drama industry, admired for her graceful performances in hit dramas like ‘Mere Paas Tum Ho’ and ‘Chupke Chupke’, making her a household name. These actors have managed to capture the essence of changing societal norms and appealing to a wide range of audiences.

Looking ahead, the future of Pakistan’s television industry is poised for even greater creativity and innovation, with new talent constantly emerging. The rise of digital platforms has opened new avenues for young actors to explore diverse roles and connect with the audiences.

This shift has not only expanded the reach of Pakistani dramas but has also provided a platform for the actors to experiment with more varied and complex characters. This change will create greater diversity in content and give the upcoming talent the freedom to push boundaries, offering fresh perspectives that will shape the future of the industry.

Our actors have always played an important role in the industry’s success, with their powerful performances. From the iconic actors of the past to today’s celebrated stars, each generation has contributed to the success of our dramas. As new talent continues to rise, they bring fresh perspectives and energy, ensuring that the tradition of strong, memorable performances remains alive.

The writer is a seasoned journalist and a communications professional. He can be reached at tariqkik@gmail.com