There was a time when Pakistani dramas felt like a warm hug — relatable, heartfelt, and genuinely funny. They made you laugh out loud with your entire family, and sometimes even tugged at your heartstrings. Maybe it’s nostalgia, but those shows had a certain magic that’s sorely missing today.
Fast forward to now, and it feels like we’re stuck in a rinse-and-repeat cycle of melodrama. Almost every other show revolves around the same tired formula: an angry, brooding man and a passive, silent woman. At some point, he slaps her mid-argument, she stumbles theatrically onto a bed, and voilà — we’re expected to root for their “love story.” This cookie-cutter plot is plastered across channels like it’s the only way to tell a tale.
Sure, we could blame the writers or producers, but the truth is these tropes exist because people keep watching them. The ratings speak for themselves.
But maybe it’s time to break the cycle. Step away from the angst and revisit a time when comedy reigned, characters were colorful, and stories didn’t need trauma to be entertaining.
Here are six iconic Pakistani comedy dramas that remind us what real entertainment looks like:
1. Annie Ki Ayegi Baraat (2012)
Part of the beloved Baraat Series, this show follows Annie, a London-returned girl caught in the chaos of her desi family’s wedding shenanigans. But the real scene-stealer? Bushra Ansari as Saima Chaudhry, armed with one-liners that still live rent-free in our heads.
2. Bulbulay (2009–Present)
Absolute madness — in the best way. The dysfunctional foursome of Momo, Mehmood Sahab, Nabeel, and Khoobsurat exist in a world where logic doesn’t matter, but laughter is guaranteed. It’s no surprise this slapstick sitcom is Pakistan’s longest-running comedy series.
3. Akbari Asghari (2011)
Before Fawad Khan became the poster boy of serious dramas, he lit up the screen as the mischievous Asghar. A loose adaptation of a classic Urdu novel, the show features arranged marriages, culture clashes, and enough humor to keep you hooked till the last episode.
4. Ankahi (1982)
Written by the legendary Haseena Moin, Ankahi centers on Sana — quirky, ambitious, and unapologetically herself — as she navigates work life and big dreams. Its witty dialogue and charming cast made it a timeless treasure. Iconic line? “Kya aap waqai mein sanjeeda hain?” Enough said.
5. Quddusi Sahab Ki Bewah (2012)
Equal parts absurd and brilliant, this cult hit still trends every Ramazan. From poker-playing aunties to men in saris, it pushed the envelope of Pakistani TV. Hina Dilpazeer’s 25+ characters made this satire on urban desi life both bizarre and brilliant.
6. Guest House (1991)
Set in an Islamabad guest house, this classic sitcom featured the delightful Mr. and Mrs. Shameem, and a parade of eccentric guests and staff. With Jan Rambo at his hilarious best, it’s a throwback to when sitcoms were actually…sitcoms.
It’s time we make space for stories that spark joy. Not every drama needs to be soaked in tears and trauma. Sometimes, a good laugh is all we need — and these gems prove Pakistani TV used to deliver that effortlessly.
