Looking for Your Next Binge-Watch? Add These Pakistani Dramas to Your Watchlist

Express Tribune

07-02-2025

For years, many Pakistani dramas have followed a repetitive formula: a young woman is forced into an arranged marriage with a man who doesn't love her, often facing mistreatment and emotional abuse.
The narrative typically escalates with scenes of physical confrontation, like the man slapping or throwing the woman on the bed, only for him to eventually fall in love with her after a series of conflicts.
While these themes have dominated the landscape, a few dramas have managed to break free from this predictable pattern, offering fresh and engaging storytelling.
These underrated gems offer unique plots, character depth, and emotional resonance that deserve far more attention from viewers.
If you're tired of the same old storylines and want something new, here's a list of eight underrated Pakistani dramas that are worth your time. 1. Dushman-e-Jaan (2020)
This romantic crime thriller is about Ramsha, a woman from a modest background, who works tirelessly to support herself. But her life takes a dramatic turn when she encounters Hatim, an upper-class man with deeply ingrained prejudices.
Dushman-e-Jaan tightly crafted, well-structured drama incorporates many familiar themes found in Pakistani shows, such as the challenges faced by working women, the rishta culture, and financial struggles. However, it stands apart with its darker elements of guilt, revenge, and murder, which add a sharp edge to the typical sentimentality. 2. Dil Ruba (2020)
The main character, Sanam (Hania Aamir), is an ordinary teenager immersed in the world of social media. As a TikTok influencer, her captivating beauty draws the attention of every man she encounters. She skillfully manipulates her interactions with them, using her charm to gain various benefits.
It is a breath of fresh air as it thoughtfully reexamines the key aspects of choosing a life partner, including sincerity and other important factors that play a role in the search for the right match in today's world. 3. Yakeen Ka Safar (2021)
A young woman is devastated by the death of her mother, which was caused by her father. At the same time, an honorable lawyer seeks justice when a poor girl is assaulted by a political heir and his friends.
Yakeen Ka Safr is truly beautifully crafted narrative that feels like a heartfelt journey — one where two broken souls come together, healing each other as they are drawn together by the invisible threads of love. 4. Pyaar Ke Sadqay (2020)
Abdullah and Mahjabeen are deeply in love and strive to overcome numerous obstacles in their quest to be together.
This drama offers a refreshing break from the usual storylines, with a well-written script and impressive direction. It highlights key issues like girls' education, women's empowerment, sexual harassment at home, commitment in relationships, divorce in modern society, childhood trauma, and the strength of being confidently opinionated. 5. Alif (2019)
Alif is the journey of Momin and Momina, where Momin's journey is to rediscover his roots and Momina's journey is to maintain the livelihood of her family by fateful events their paths will join.
This spiritual-romantic drama was loved by those who watched it. Each scene, conversation, and character radiates authenticity and sincerity, leaving a lasting impact. This isn't merely a drama; it's a transformative journey of self-realization and spiritual growth. 6. Guru
The drama tells the story of Guru, a transgender person who faces societal challenges but remains hopeful. After finding an abandoned baby girl, Guru takes her in, providing love, care, and a better life despite the obstacles they face.
This drama was one of the best plays on television when it aired! A highly underrated gem that you must watch, especially for how well Ali Rehman acted as 'Sattar.' 7. Khaas
The story follows Saba Faraz (Sanam Baloch), an ambitious and confident woman, and Ammar Saud (Ali Rehman Khan), a charming yet narcissistic businessman.
Khaas explores the emotional struggles of a woman in a male-dominated culture, where societal expectations weigh heavily on her. It resonates deeply with the real experiences of women in patriarchal societies across South Asia.