'We need new stories, diverse characters in dramas'

Actor Shaista Jabeen laments industry reliance on repetitive themes

KARACHI:

Veteran Pakistani actress Shaista Jabeen has called for more original stories and diverse characters in television, saying the industry is increasingly relying on repetitive themes and familiar character types.

Jabeen is currently set to appear in Express Entertainment's upcoming drama Ikhtiyaar, which features an ensemble cast including Shahroz Sabzwari, Srha Asghar, Faiza Hassan and Yasir Nawaz.

Speaking about the drama, Jabeen described Ikhtiyaar as a powerful and emotionally engaging project, praising both its storyline and the performances of her fellow actors.

"It is a phenomenal drama and a story that touches the heart," she said, adding that the cast had done a commendable job with their respective characters.

The veteran actress also praised the production facilities provided for the project, saying she had not faced any major difficulties during the shoot. She particularly admired the set, describing it as "outstanding" and saying it reminded her of the television productions of her earlier career.

Jabeen, who began her acting journey on stage in the 1980s before moving to television, became widely recognised through PTV productions during the 1990s. Her breakthrough came with Dasht, while Aaghosh, Duniya Dari and Beti are among her other notable television dramas. She has appeared in more than 50 television serials during her career.

Reflecting on the changes in the television industry, Jabeen said the working environment and production standards had evolved considerably over the years.

"Earlier, we managed to do more with less. Now, there is more, but we are managing with less," she said, describing it as one of the major changes she has observed during her career.

However, she believes the biggest challenge facing Pakistani television today is the lack of fresh writing.