Written by: Hurmat Majid
Posted on: April 30, 2025 | 
| 中文
Samar Jafri and Aina Asif in Parwarish
In an age where television dramas often fall prey to repetitive tropes and surface-level storytelling, Parwarish on ARY Digital emerges as a refreshing and heartfelt addition to the Pakistani entertainment landscape. Airing every Monday and Tuesday at 8:00 PM, Parwarish has, within weeks of its premiere, carved a special space for itself, not just among regular drama audiences, but also among younger, socially conscious viewers seeking narratives that feel authentic, empathetic and genuinely connected to the realities of modern life. Produced by Fahad Mustafa’s Big Bang Entertainment, directed by Meesam Naqvi and written by Kiran Siddiqui, this drama is a shining example of what television can achieve when commercial viability is balanced thoughtfully with meaningful storytelling.
Abul Hasan and Samar Jafri as cousins
Parwarish follows the story of Wali Jahangir (played by Samar Abbas Jafri), a talented young man who returns to Pakistan after years of living in the U.S., grappling with the cultural shock of reintegration and the expectations of a traditional family. His passion for music becomes a point of friction with his father Jahangir (Naumaan Ijaz), who holds firm to values rooted in conservatism and legacy. At the same time, Maya (Aina Asif), a bright and determined girl from a conventional household, dreams of becoming a doctor, navigating the societal pressures placed upon young women. Their paths intertwine, sparking not just a romantic connection but a deeper exploration of familial love, identity, duty and individual freedom. As Wali and Maya fight to claim their personal destinies without abandoning the ties that bind them, Parwarish paints a layered, moving picture of growing up between worlds.
Abul Hasan, Reham Rafiq and Samar Jafri
What truly sets Parwarish apart from the dozens of dramas currently on air is its emotional intelligence and its nuanced handling of generational divides. Unlike many shows that either demonize tradition or blindly glorify it, Parwarish finds a delicate middle ground, recognizing both the warmth and the suffocating grip of traditional expectations. It resonates particularly well with audiences who understand what it means to belong to two cultures at once, the one inherited from their parents and the one shaped by global exposure. The writing refuses to insult the audience’s intelligence by offering simplistic good-versus-evil dichotomies; instead, it invests in building characters who are flawed, complex and human, making their struggles feel both personal and universal.
The portrayal of a returning immigrant family, in particular, feels incredibly apt. Parwarish captures the unspoken tensions that arise when one leaves home for better opportunities but returns to find the concept of "home" changed, or perhaps realizing that they themselves have changed irreversibly. The Jahangir household, led by the formidable but tender patriarch played by Naumaan Ijaz, mirrors many modern Pakistani joint families who are simultaneously rooted in tradition yet grappling with the pull of modernity. From shared breakfasts to collective decision-making, the depiction of a joint family in today’s fast-paced, individualistic world is handled with refreshing realism and affection. There’s an underlying acknowledgment that while the joint family system can sometimes feel claustrophobic, it is also a source of unparalleled love and resilience.
Naumaan Ijaz and Samar Jafri
When it comes to performances, Parwarish boasts a truly stellar cast, each of whom deserves singular praise. Samar Abbas Jafri brings a sensitive and convincing energy to Wali, portraying his internal conflicts with remarkable ease. Aina Asif is effervescent and soulful as Maya, beautifully embodying both vulnerability and determination. Naumaan Ijaz is commanding and poignant as Jahangir, effortlessly balancing authority with emotional depth. Savera Nadeem offers a layered and compassionate performance as Mahnoor, making a strong case for maternal empathy. Shamim Hilaly is graceful and endearing as Dadi, serving as the moral anchor of the family with understated brilliance. Reham Rafiq as Amal is spirited and relatable, breathing fresh air into her character's youthful optimism. Nazar ul Hassan delivers a solid and nuanced turn as Shaheer, giving the narrative much of its quieter emotional gravitas. Bakhtawar Mazhar is sincere and grounded as Sadia, effectively portraying the struggles of a woman balancing tradition and ambition. Nooray Zeeshan shines with a charming and natural presence as Aania. Haleema Ali impresses with a lively and sensitive take on Mashal, and Arshad Mehmood as Dada, remains wise and heartfelt, a quiet yet crucial voice of reason.
Savera Nadeem, Naumaan Ijaz, Arshad Mehmood and Shamim Hilaly
The younger generation of actors in Parwarish deserve special applause as a collective force. It is clear that this new crop of talent, represented most vividly by Samar Abbas Jafri, Aina Asif, and others, is not only skilled on screen but also socially aware off it. Their conduct in promotional interviews, morning shows, and press interactions speaks volumes of their upbringing, education and sense of responsibility. It is heartening to witness these young artists approach topics like mental health with genuine sensitivity and informed awareness. Their narrative on depression, anxiety and familial pressure is never flippant; it feels studied, personal and earnest, a significant departure from previous generations of celebrities who, too often approach such delicate topics with dismissiveness or unfortunate ignorance. This shift toward dignified, responsible public personas among young actors is not just refreshing but essential for shaping healthier conversations in society.
Director Meesam Naqvi deserves a standing ovation for his thoughtful and assured storytelling. His command over pacing, character arcs, and emotional beats ensures that Parwarish remains engaging without ever feeling overwrought. The production quality, too, is exemplary. From the warm, lived-in set design of the Jahangir household to the rich, emotive soundtrack that frames key moments, every detail has been meticulously crafted to support the story's emotional currents.
Bakhtawar Mazhar and Aina Asif
Special mention must go to Fahad Mustafa, whose commitment to balancing commerce with content deserves admiration. He has been quoted saying that his production house, Big Bang Entertainment, often funds projects that matter by producing a few mass-market, "popular" plays. With Parwarish, it is clear that the profits from lighter fare have been invested wisely into a drama that holds cultural significance and artistic merit. This play feels like a labor of love, a project born not out of necessity but out of belief in the power of meaningful storytelling.
Airing every Monday and Tuesday at 8:00 PM on ARY Digital, Parwarish is a must-watch for anyone who values television that respects the audience’s intelligence and emotions. It is not just a drama for regular viewers who enjoy family sagas; it also targets a younger, hipper and more aware demographic who demand authenticity and thoughtfulness from the content they consume. With its impeccable performances, heartfelt storytelling and important social commentary, Parwarish is an unforgettable journey that everyone should experience.
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