With the help of this carefully prepared list of ten must-watch series, discover the captivating world of Pakistani romance dramas. These dramas, which range from the enduring tale of “Humsafar” to the engrossing tale of “Zindagi Gulzar Hai,” have won over audiences all over the world. Explore stories of love, resentment, and reconciliation as depicted by outstanding performers such as Sanam Saeed, Mahira Khan, and Fawad Khan. The rich and distinct experiences provided by each drama make them ideal for lovers of romance fiction.
‘Humsafar’
The acclaimed Pakistani love story drama ‘Humsafar’ earned praise for its writing, direction, and performances, launching Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan to super-stardom. Directors Sarmad Khoosat and Farhat Ishtiaq crafted more than a love story, weaving in elements of romance, jealousy, despair, and ultimately, the triumph of forgiveness, making it one of the best series. The title track itself was enough to capture hearts.
Cast: Fawad Khan, Mahira Khan, Noor Hassan
Where to watch – HUM TV SHORTS YouTube channel
IMDb rating – 8.9 / 10
Zindagi Gulzar Hai’
One of Pakistan’s most popular shows is ‘Zindagi Gulzar Hai’, which became a household name and also introduced India to one of the most celebrated on-screen pairs – Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed. The story delves into the lives of two protagonists, Zaroon Junaid (played by Sanam Seed) and Kashaf Murtaza (played by Fawad Khan). Zaroon comes from a wealthy background, while Kashaf comes from a modest one. Despite their different upbringings, the two eventually fall in love. The series, which first aired in 2012, remains relevant and is among the popular choices for the audience.
Cast: Fawad Khan, Sanam Saeed, Sheheryar Munawar
Where to watch – HUM TV SHORTS YouTube channel
IMDb rating – 8.9 / 10
Meray Paas Tum Ho
Meray Paas Tum Ho, which first aired in 2019, is a short serial that is filled with elements of greed, loyalty, and love. The plot focuses on the love angle of Mehwish, a middle-class girl who gets married to Danish, a boy who is immensely in love with her. The story unfolds as Mehwish does not get her expectations fulfilled by her husband, a governmental organization worker. When Mehwish starts working in a company, she encounters Shehwar, a rich, charming, and manipulative man who lures her into a life she has always expected. The serial was a blockbuster and broke all records of popularity.
Cast: Humayun Saeed, Ayeza Khan, Adnan Siddiqui
Where to watch – ARY DIGITAL HD YouTube channel
IMDb rating – 8.4 / 10
Aunn Zara
Director Haissam Hussain returns to the cultural roots of rituals and family ties in ‘Aunn Zara’, based on Faiza Iftikhar’s novel Hisaar-e-Muhabbat. The story follows Aunn, a painfully pampered boy desperate to break free from his overprotective and overbearing family. At a wedding, he meets Zara, a headstrong and vivacious girl, daughter of an uptight army officer. Their first encounter sparks a connection, leading to a marriage of convenience. The series explores the evolution of their relationship, their journey of self-discovery, and the dynamics within their families.
Cast: Maya Ali, Sabreen Hisbani, Osman Khalid Butt
Where to watch – A Plus Entertainment YouTube Channel
IMDb rating – 8.0 / 10
Dastaan
Dastaan isn’t just a show like Humsafar or Zindagi Gulzar Hai; it’s an epic love story between a nation and its people set against the backdrop of the turbulent time of Partition and Independence. The show tells the story of Hassan and Bano, torn apart by events far beyond their control, resembling a fault in their stars. Besides its promising star cast, the show will win you over with its political sensitivities and historical details.
Cast: Fawad Khan, Sanam Baloch, Mehreen Raheel
Where to watch – HUM TV YouTube Channel
IMDb rating – 8.8 / 10
Mayi Ri
In “Mayi Ri,” Nauman Ijaz portrays Zaheer, a successful businessman with conservative ideals. The drama highlights the issue of child marriage, telling the story of Annie, a 15-year-old forced into matrimony. The exceptional cast vividly portrays the dangerous consequences of certain social practices, urging viewers to reflect on the importance of protecting childhood innocence.
Cast: Aina Asif, Nouman Ijaz, Samar Abbas
Where to watch – ARY DIGITAL HD YouTube Channel
IMDb rating – 6.8 / 10
Mann Mayal
In this series, Hamza Ali Abbasi and Maya Ali breathe new life into old-school romance. ‘Mann Mayal’ tells the story of two neighbors, Manahil (Maya Ali) and Salahuddin (Hamza Ali Abbasi). When Manahil fails her exams, her father asks Salahuddin to tutor her. They fall in love, but Salahuddin refuses to marry Manahil due to their social class. He asks Manahil to agree to Mikael’s proposal and leaves her. Heartbroken, Manahil marries Mikael, while Salahuddin leaves for Karachi in search of a job. The show is a perfect blend of hurt, passion, romance, and anger. A genuine sad love story, ‘Mann Mayal’ will take you on a breathtaking ride.
Cast: Maya Ali, Hamza Ali Abbasi, Aiman Khan
Where to watch – HUM TV YouTube Channel
IMDb rating – 7.9 / 10
Mujhe Pyaar Hua Tha
In “Mujhe Pyaar Hua Tha,” Hania Amir’s portrayal of Maheer, a simple and humble girl, presents a complex love triangle between Maheer, Saad, and Areeb. The drama explores the consequences of unexpressed love and the impact of misunderstandings on relationships, creating a gripping storyline that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
Cast: Wahaj Ali, Hania Aamir, Zaviyar Nauman Ijaz
Where to watch – ARY DIGITAL HD YouTube Channel
IMDb rating – 6.5 / 10
Dil Lagi
The drama “Dil Lagi” focuses on the lives of Mohid and Anmol. Anmol lives with her widowed mother and younger sister in a house that was once given as collateral for a debt. Kifayat Ali, the debtor, pressures the family into a fraudulent exchange by seeking help from Mohid, a real estate expert. The 2016 romantic serial portrays the clash between the two characters and their emerging love for each other.
Cast: Humayun Saeed, Mehwish Hayat, Mariam Ansari
Where to watch – ARY DIGITAL HD YouTube Channel
IMDb rating – 8.4 / 10
Raqs-e-Bismil
In Raqs-e-Bismil, Sakina runs away to marry her lover, but her cousin Moosa informs her family, leading to a forced Nikkah. Sakina curses Moosa to fall in love with someone he can never have. Soon, Moosa falls for Zohra, attracted by her religious attire. However, he discovers that Zohra is an escort, which disturbs him. While Zohra challenges men’s hypocritical standards, Moosa struggles to hide his feelings. The show has gained popularity and continues to trend.
Cast: Umer Aalam, Imran Ashraf, Sarah Khan
Where to watch – HUM TV YouTube Channel
IMDb rating – 8.0 / 10
