10 Old Pakistani Dramas to Rewatch: A Trip Down Memory Lane

Pakistani television dramas have always been a source of entertainment, education, and cultural reflection. Long before the age of streaming services, families would gather around their televisions to watch these iconic shows that not only captivated audiences but also shaped the landscape of Pakistani media. While the golden age of Pakistani drama may have passed, many of these classic dramas continue to resonate with viewers today, reminding us of a time when storytelling and character depth were at the forefront of entertainment. Here are 10 old Pakistani dramas worth rewatching:

1. Dhoop Kinare (1987)

Dhoop Kinare is often considered one of the finest dramas ever produced in Pakistan. Directed by Sahira Kazmi and written by Haseena Moin, the show is a delicate blend of romance and drama, following the lives of Dr. Zoya Ali Khan (Marina Khan) and Dr. Ahmer Ansari (Rahat Kazmi), two doctors working in a hospital who come from very different backgrounds. The slow-burn romance, nuanced performances, and memorable dialogues made Dhoop Kinare a timeless classic. Even decades later, its themes of love, loss, and personal growth still resonate with audiences.

2. Ankahi (1982)

Another gem from the 1980s, Ankahi is a comedic drama that revolves around Sana Murad (Shehnaz Sheikh), a young woman with big dreams but limited means. Written by Haseena Moin, this drama is beloved for its humor, witty dialogues, and relatable characters. The show explores Sana’s struggles in a chaotic household, her professional ambitions, and her interactions with the charming Taimur (Javed Sheikh). Ankahi is remembered for its refreshing take on women’s aspirations and remains a must-watch for anyone looking for a lighthearted yet meaningful drama.

3. Tanhaiyaan (1985)

A drama that still tugs at the heartstrings of viewers, Tanhaiyaan is an emotional rollercoaster that tells the story of two sisters, Zara (Shehnaz Sheikh) and Sanya (Marina Khan), who lose their parents and their home. Determined to rebuild their lives, Zara sets out to regain what was lost, but in doing so, drifts away from her relationships and the simpler joys of life. Directed by Shahzad Khalil and written by Haseena Moin, Tanhaiyaan remains one of the most poignant portrayals of family, love, and loss in Pakistani television history. Its stellar performances, especially from Marina Khan and Shehnaz Sheikh, cement it as a drama to rewatch and cherish.

4. Aangan Terha (1984)

Aangan Terha is a satirical comedy that critiques the socio-political situation in Pakistan during the 1980s through the lens of a retired civil servant’s household. The drama revolves around Mehboob Ahmed (Shakeel), his wife Jahan Ara (Bushra Ansari), and their witty servant Akbar (Salim Nasir). Written by Anwar Maqsood, this drama is beloved for its sharp humor, clever dialogues, and biting social commentary. Its portrayal of middle-class struggles, political corruption, and social norms, all wrapped in light-hearted humor, makes Aangan Terha a timeless and relevant watch even today.

5. Alpha Bravo Charlie (1998)

This military drama, directed by Shoaib Mansoor, follows the lives of three friends—Alpha (Faraz Inam), Bravo (Abdullah Mehmood), and Charlie (Qasim Khan)—who are part of the Pakistan Army. Alpha Bravo Charlie is a continuation of Shoaib Mansoor's earlier hit, Sunehre Din, and gives an insightful look into the personal and professional lives of army officers. The camaraderie, patriotism, and emotional depth of the drama made it a massive hit. Its heartwarming portrayal of friendship, duty, and sacrifice still resonates with viewers, making it a must-watch for fans of military dramas.

6. Waris (1979)

One of the earliest classics of Pakistani television, Waris is a powerful drama that delves into the themes of feudalism, power, and justice. Written by Amjad Islam Amjad and directed by Nusrat Thakur, the show revolves around the internal conflicts of a feudal family and the impact of their decisions on the surrounding village. The drama is known for its intense performances by Abid Ali, Firdous Jamal, and Mehboob Alam, and for its portrayal of the tension between tradition and modernity. Waris is a thought-provoking and socially relevant drama that remains just as impactful today as it was in the late 1970s.

7. Uncle Urfi (1972)

Written by Haseena Moin and directed by Mohsin Ali, Uncle Urfi is one of the earliest and most influential dramas on Pakistani television. The show focuses on the life of Urfi (Shakeel), a man who returns from abroad and becomes a guardian figure to his niece and nephew. The drama explores themes of familial duty, societal expectations, and unspoken love, with a special focus on Urfi’s complicated relationship with Beena (Shahla Ahmad). Uncle Urfi was ahead of its time in its nuanced depiction of love and relationships, and its thoughtful storytelling still makes it a compelling watch.

8. Parchaiyan (1976)

An adaptation of Henry James’ The Portrait of a Lady, Parchaiyan was one of the earliest long-running dramas on PTV. Directed by Mohsin Ali and written by Haseena Moin, the drama tells the story of a young woman, Najia (Sahira Kazmi), who is caught between her desire for independence and the expectations of her family. The drama explores themes of love, betrayal, and personal freedom, and Sahira Kazmi’s powerful performance as Najia remains a highlight of the show. Parchaiyan is a reflective drama that captures the emotional complexity of relationships and personal growth, making it a must-rewatch for fans of classic Pakistani television.

9. Sunehre Din (1991)

Directed by Shoaib Mansoor, Sunehre Din is a drama that focuses on the life of army cadets and their experiences during their training at the Pakistan Military Academy. The show is known for its light-hearted portrayal of the cadets’ camaraderie, humor, and the challenges they face. What makes Sunehre Din special is its mix of humor, discipline, and the emotional development of its characters, who start off as carefree youths but grow into responsible adults by the end of the series. The drama is a prequel to Alpha Bravo Charlie and is remembered fondly for its strong performances and patriotic themes.

10. Aahat (1991)

Aahat was a drama that explored the complexity of human emotions, relationships, and psychological conflicts. Directed by Sahira Kazmi, the show focused on the personal lives of individuals who are trapped in difficult situations, often involving strained relationships and unfulfilled desires. Aahat stands out for its mature themes and introspective storytelling. The drama's exploration of the emotional and mental toll of societal pressures resonated with viewers who were looking for more serious, thought-provoking content. The performances by seasoned actors like Marina Khan and Sajid Hassan further elevate the drama, making it a timeless watch.