Netflix’s first ever Pakistani original series, titled “Jo Bachay Hain Sang Samait Lo,” has been officially announced. The development has caused quit a stir among entertainment enthusiasts in the country. This groundbreaking production not only signifies Netflix’s entry into the realm of Pakistani content but also promises to captivate a global audience with its impressive ensemble.
According to a reports, the star-studded cast includes renowned names like Mahira Khan, Fawad Khan, Sanam Saeed, Ahad Raza Mir, Hamza Ali Abbasi, Bilal Ashraf, Maya Ali, Iqra Aziz, Hania Aamir, Khushaal Khan, Nadia Jamil, Omair Rana, and Samina Ahmed.
As the news hit the airwaves, the online community erupted with a flurry of reactions, showcasing the widespread anticipation surrounding this momentous endeavor.
What Pakistan’s Debut on Netflix Means for the Industry?
A Pakistani Netflix original series has the viewers excited for many reasons. The country’s media is full of praise that this project could potentially open up some heavily guarded doors. If it’s a success, Netflix would be able to bet on more Pakistan-focused content in the future.
It will give Pakistani content creators and filmmakers a global platform to showcase their work, and introduce Netflix viewers to a wider range of stories and perspectives. Netflix has a global reach of over 220 million subscribers, which means that Pakistani content will now be available to a large audience. This will help to raise awareness of Pakistani cinema and television, and it could lead to increased demand for Pakistani content from other streaming platforms and distributors.
Journalist Mahwash Ajaz celebrated the progress made and the potential impact on Pakistani storytelling. She highlights that it would also alleviate the need to rely on platforms like India’s Zee5 or other alternatives to tell Pakistani stories. She sees it as a chance for Pakistan to create content that aligns with their own vision, a sentiment underscored by the potential to take charge of their narrative.
The importance of having creative control over the content would help avoid several issues such as content hoarding or inappropriate release, which led to Zee5 being banned in Pakistan.
Pakistan also praises Momina Duraid and Hum for thier hard work in achieving this milestone by overcoming potential challenges.
Excitement Through the Roof
The revelation of Pakistan’s debut Netflix series and its star-studded lineup has sparked widespread excitement. Social media platforms have been witnessing an outpouring of reactions from actors and viewers alike. Even the journalist Haroon Rashid temporarily ended his hiatus from X (formerly known as Twitter) to share his thoughts on the matter.
The enthusiasm extended to the outrageous ensemble of actors. Vewers who could not believe the show signed almost every top actor in the country. The significant star power associated with the show is destined to attract many eyes. A touch of humor was bound to emerge as some users commented how they would watch the show anyway no matter the quality of script and acting.
Some even playfully remarked on the show’s title, considering how it relates with the cast.
What the Show is About?
It is derived from Farhat Ishtiaq’s well-received 2013 Urdu-language novel bearing the same title, “Jo Bachay Hain Sang Samait Lo”. It delves into the captivating story of a young man named Sikandar.
This exceptional Harvard law student’s trajectory undergoes an unforeseen shift, prompting him to erect emotional barriers between himself and those around him. After his visit to Italy, he crosses paths with Liza, a gifted artist teeming with vivacity yet haunted by a turbulent history. Their serendipitous encounter intricately weaves their fates together, unfolding a narrative of profound human relationship.
The novel’s narrative leans more towards resembling a travelogue rather than being character-driven. Liza’s persona comes across as irksomely exuberant, while Sikander carries a brooding demeanor due to a traumatic incident from his past. Their paths intertwine through the workings of fate, and an apparent plot twist adds an element of dramatic intensity.
The plot also delves into themes of false allegations of sexual assault and the harsh reality of actual sexual assault. Farhat Ishtiaq, known for her delicate handling of such subjects, instills confidence that this adaptation will manage them adeptly.
