Pakistani television dramas enjoy immense popularity beyond the country’s borders. From South Asia to the Middle East and beyond, audiences praise their storytelling, emotional depth, and cultural authenticity. However, despite this international success, senior actor Faisal Qureshi believes that the drama industry is not being treated fairly at home.
In a recent interview, Faisal Qureshi openly shared his concerns about how Pakistani dramas are discussed and criticized within the country. While acknowledging the importance of constructive feedback, he warned that excessive and negative criticism risks harming an industry that has earned global respect.
A Veteran Voice from Pakistan’s Drama Industry
Faisal Qureshi is among Pakistan’s most respected television actors. With a career spanning over two decades, he has appeared in dozens of successful dramas. His experience gives weight to his views on the industry’s direction and challenges.
Speaking candidly in a televised interview, Qureshi said he felt disappointed with some fellow artists and commentators. According to him, the way dramas are criticized in Pakistan often goes beyond healthy discussion. Instead, it sometimes turns into discouragement that undermines creative effort.
He stressed that criticism should aim to improve quality, not destroy morale.
Global Appreciation for Pakistani Dramas
Qureshi highlighted that Pakistani channels have produced a wide range of dramas over the years. These include social issues, family stories, romance, and psychological themes. As a result, local audiences feel proud of their television content.
More importantly, he said, international viewers show the same level of admiration.
I recently met a man from Nepal who praised our dramas, Qureshi shared. He added that Pakistani dramas are also widely appreciated in Bangladesh, India, and Türkiye. In many regions, viewers follow Pakistani serials regularly through television broadcasts and digital platforms.
Over the past decade, Pakistani dramas have gained millions of views online. Platforms like YouTube have played a major role in expanding their reach. Subtitled episodes allow non-Urdu speakers to connect with the stories. This global exposure has turned actors into international stars.
Domestic Criticism Raises Concerns
Despite this success, Qureshi expressed concern about attitudes at home. He pointed out a contradiction. While the world celebrates Pakistani dramas, local discussions often focus heavily on flaws.
The world appreciates our dramas, he said, but people in Pakistan are not treating them well.
He clarified that he is not against criticism. In fact, he believes it is necessary. Constructive criticism helps improve technical aspects such as direction, editing, and writing. However, he warned that constant harsh criticism can damage the overall perception of dramas.
According to Qureshi, excessive negativity can discourage creators and reduce innovation.
A Call for Balance and Responsibility
Referring to senior actors who frequently comment on television productions, Qureshi urged them to be responsible with their words. He emphasized that influential voices shape public opinion.
Criticize, but do not ruin the drama, he said.
His message was clear. There must be a balance between honest feedback and respect for creative effort. Without this balance, the industry may suffer in the long term.
The Bigger Picture
Pakistan’s drama industry remains one of the country’s strongest cultural exports. It reflects society, raises awareness, and builds soft power globally. Maintaining its quality requires collaboration, not constant conflict.
Faisal Qureshi’s comments serve as a reminder. Appreciation at home is just as important as applause abroad. If nurtured properly, Pakistani dramas can continue to thrive on the world stage while evolving positively within the country.
