Latest news with #ZhalaySarhadi
Arab News
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Arab News
Pakistani woman artists connect via WhatsApp after actor's death spotlights growing urban isolation
ISLAMABAD: Women in Pakistan's entertainment industry have come closer and created a WhatsApp group to check in on each other and ensure immediate help to anyone going through difficult times, following this month's shocking death of Humaira Asghar. The 42-year-old, originally from Lahore, was found dead at her rented flat in Karachi on July 18, at least nine months after her passing. Pakistani police have said medico-legal authorities found no traces of toxins in her body. The case stirred a debate in Pakistan about the silent toll of urban isolation, especially in large cities like Karachi, where rapid expansion, changing family structures and weakening community bonds are quietly reshaping how people live — and die. Hundreds of Pakistani women, including actors, directors, producers and makeup artists, have joined the WhatsApp group, 'Connectivity 101,' after the idea was proposed by Zhalay Sarhadi, Yashma Gill, Sonia Hussain, Mansha Pasha and others. 'The core purpose of Connectivity 101 is to create networking through a platform, connectivity through a platform, through which people can talk about their problems... people can inquire about well-being and keep a check on each other,' Gill said in an interview, adding it came into existence after the tragic passing of Asghar. Asghar's death came weeks after renowned actor Ayesha Khan was found dead in her apartment in Karachi's Gulshan-e-Iqbal area, according to police. Her neighbors had reported a foul smell emitting out of her apartment that led to the discovery of the 84-year-old's body. Gill, one of the Connectivity 101 admins, said the initiative was taken after it was realized that people working in the industry, especially women, are usually not able to stay in touch with their families, friends and even colleagues due to their busy schedules. 'This connection is very important not just to celebrate good times, but also to support each other in hard times,' she said. Nearly 44 percent of Pakistanis now live in urban areas, up from 35 percent in 2010, according to World Bank estimates. Mental health experts have warned that loneliness isn't just a social issue but a serious health risk. Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Afridi, a Karachi-based psychiatrist, last week cited World Health Organization (WHO) findings that over 870,000 people died globally in 2024 due to conditions linked to extreme isolation. 'In fact, loneliness has been found to be more painful and damaging than conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure,' he said. 'It has also been observed that people who get disconnected from their friends, family and social circles often develop several diseases along with physical, psychological and social issues.' Gill shared that they have introduced a poll system in the group through which members can mark their presence or inform that they will not be available for a few days. She said only women from the industry are added to the group through trusted references, with a few protocols set for everyone. She said group members are even urged to exercise 'extreme caution' while communicating with each other so that everyone benefits and no negative situation arises. 'I am pro-friendships, people should become friends. But these are celebrities and girls that we are talking about, so things should be taken care of,' she added.
Express Tribune
20-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
The Most Trending Pakistani Dramas on YouTube Right Now
Pakistani dramas have become a significant entertainment phenomenon, with millions tuning in every week. What's even more interesting is the rise of YouTube as a platform where these shows are taking over the charts almost immediately after airing on television. Thanks to TV channels' strategic decisions to upload these dramas on their YouTube channels, audiences are now able to watch their favorite shows anytime, anywhere. This digital shift has contributed to an increased demand for Pakistani drama content on YouTube, with these shows often dominating the trending page, regularly securing the number-one spot. Viewers from both Pakistan and India flock to these platforms, as they provide an engaging daily dose of entertainment that is both relatable and captivating. The magic of Pakistani daily soap serials lies in their universal appeal. With similarities to once-popular Indian content, these dramas offer a similar narrative style that resonates with many viewers, keeping them hooked through emotional storylines, family dynamics, and relatable characters. With millions of views per episode, the following dramas have become some of the biggest hits in Pakistan's digital entertainment scene. 1. Judwaa "Judwaa" is a rollercoaster of emotions, drama, and family conflicts. The plot centers around twin sisters who, despite looking identical, have vastly different personalities. One is gentle and quiet, while the other is bold and confident. Their lives take unexpected turns, leading to misunderstandings and emotional turmoil. The show, which has become a fan favorite due to its intriguing storyline and impressive cast, including Aina Asif (playing a double role), Zhalay Sarhadi, Adnan Raza Mir, Sabreen Hisbani, and Shahood Alvi, is a must-watch. The drama averages around 6 million views per episode, making it one of the most-watched shows of the moment. 2. Bajjo "Bajjo" is a heartfelt family drama that blends humor with emotional turbulence, focusing on a middle-class household where family dynamics often lead to conflicts. Musarrat, fondly known as Bajjo, is the eldest sibling who struggles with her unmarried status and expresses frustration through her sharp tongue. When a marriage proposal finally comes her way, her life takes another twist. The drama, which revolves around Bajjo's journey and her family's patience, stars Sana Askari, Hashaam Kha, Arez Ahmed, Javeria Saud, and Sukaina Khan. "Bajjo" is currently garnering around 3 million views per episode, reflecting its growing popularity. 3. Mann Marzi "Mann Marzi" is a drama that delves into the consequences of selfish desires and personal choices. Haider, a principled father, has two daughters with contrasting personalities: Mansha, his biological daughter, often leads with her desires, while Zara, his adopted daughter, remains grounded. The drama's exploration of relationships, selfish desires, and family dynamics makes it a compelling watch. With an impressive cast, including Haroon Shahid, Fatima Effendi, Nawal Saeed, Humayoun Ashraf, Noor-ul-Hassan, Sabahat Adil, Raja Haider, and Nida Mumtaz, "Mann Marzi" averages around 2 million views per episode. 4. Aapa Shameem "Aapa Shameem" tells a touching story of love, sacrifice, and familial bonds, particularly focusing on the lives of daughters who give up their dreams to fulfill familial obligations. Set against the backdrop of tradition and societal expectations, the drama explores the emotional turmoil of women who navigate their duties to support their families. Directed by Zeeshan Ali Zaidi, the cast includes Faiza Hasan, Fahad Sheikh, Zoha Tauqeer, Munawar Saeed, Maham Aamir, Saleem Sheikh, Sajjad Pal, Sabahat Bukhari, and Rashid Farooqui. With a compelling story that strikes a chord with many, "Aapa Shameem" averages around 1.5 million views per episode. 5. Guddi "Guddi" is an experimental drama that centers on a young girl with the ability to see the future. Her extraordinary gift becomes a curse when she foresees the death of her parents—and tragically, her vision comes true. After losing her parents, Guddi faces mistreatment from her relatives, but a mystical doll, a gift from her late parents, becomes her only solace. The show's unique storyline has captured the attention of viewers, helping it achieve an average of 1.5 million views per episode. These dramas are not only capturing the hearts of audiences in Pakistan but also gaining traction internationally. With YouTube now acting as a platform to engage fans, these serials continue to trend, providing a daily fix of drama, romance, and emotional twists.
