The Pakistani drama industry is known for its powerful and wealthy stories that profoundly impact the local audience. The core reason for this success is the talented writers who create the characters, plots, and dialogues. These writers entertain millions and make people think, inspire change in them, and reflect the realities of Pakistani society. Each writer has a unique style that has significantly contributed to the industry, covering various genres, including romance, family stories, social issues, and history. In this article, we will highlight the 16 best drama writers in the history of Pakistani television who have created some of the most iconic and beloved shows for viewers.\
Famous Drama Writers of All Time in Pakistan
Here are the list of best drama writers , check the list below
Umera Ahmed
Umera Ahmed was born on 10 December, 1976 in Sialkot, Pakistan. With the passion of writing from early ages she is one of the most celebrated Pakistani writer, author, and screenwriter. She started her career in 1998 with short stories in monthly magazines and till now wrote more than 35 books, different novels, and short stories out of which 22 were converted into dramas. “Zindagi Gulzar Hai” was her first story, written for digest magazine that attracted a lot of readers and later on got so much popularity that authority demanded for a full-length novel of it. At the age of 21, story was written by her and in 2012 it was featured in a popular Pakistani drama with the same name given by her. She spends a very private life and gives a very few interviews.
Umera Ahmed’s Work History
Some of the most Popular writings, dramas, and novels by her includes:
| Born Date | 10 December 1976 |
| Alma mater | Murray College |
| Occupation | Writer, Novelist, Scriptwriter |
| Notable Works | Pir-e-Kamil, Zindagi Gulzar Hai, Meri Zaat Zarra-e-Benishan |
| Awards and Recognitions | Pakistan Media Awards 2014 (Best writer of the year) Hum Awards 2014 (Best Writer) |
| instagram.com/umera_ahmedofficial/ | |
| YouTube Channel | youtube.com/@UmeraAhmedChannel |
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Mustafa Afridi
A star born in Dera Ismail Khan, KPK, Mustafa Afridi comes second in our list of one of the best drama writers in Pakistani history. If we look back at his history, he joined the industry and went to the National Academy of Performing Arts to become an actor. Still, at that time, his teachers found him much better at writing because of the unique storytelling capability he was born with. He has a great power to convert pen-written dialogues into real-world situations, giving the audience an impactful and emotional touch. Mustafa has received two Lux Style Awards and Hum Awards for being the Best Television Writer in his journey. His first project was for PTV, and it was an episode named Mukti. He also portrayed the character of Azhar in Hum TV’s drama Aangan and wrote the screenplay for the series as well.
Mustafa Afridi’s Work History
Some of the notable dramas by Mustafa includes:
| Occupation | Writer, Screenwriter |
| Genres | Drama, Historical, Social Issues |
| Awards | Hum Awards 2017 (Best Television Writer) Lux Style Awards 2018 (Best Television Writer) Lux Style Awards 2023 (Best Television Writer) |
| Born In | Dera Ismail Khan, KPK |
| Famous Drama | Sang e Mar Mar |
Khalil-ur-Rehman Qamar
Khalil-ur-Rehman Qamar was born on 16 December, 1962 in Lahore. His journey in the Pakistani entertainment industry is a long story of passion, a lot of controversies, but undeniable talent. Despite pursuing a B. Com and an MBA degree, his heart remained stead for storytelling. Initially working at the National Bank (NBP), he eventually left his job to chase his dreams for writing for television and films. His debut in TV drama came with Dastak Aur Darwaza in 1995, where he not only wrote the screenplay but also acted. The iconic drama Boota from Toba Tek Singh in 1999, established his reputation for crafting compelling narratives. Over the years, Khalil-ur-Rehman wrote several hit dramas that provided more and more fame to his career. He often explores intense romantic relationships, society pressures, and conservative topics.
Khalil-ur-Rehman’s Work History
Some of the notable work by Khalil-ur-Rehman is stated below:
| Born On | December 16, 1962 |
| Genres | Drama, Romance, Social Issues |
| Awards | Hum Awards 2014 (Best Writer Drama Serial) |
| Professional Debut | Dastak Aur Darwaza (1995) |
| Famous Drama | Teri Meri Kahaniyaan |
Farhat Ishtiaq
Farhat Ishtiaq is a famous Pakistani writer born on 23 June, 1980. She is renowned for her romantic novels and screenplays. With a master’s degree in civil engineering, she made a significant career shift in 2005, choosing to leave engineering behind. This decision has since enriched Pakistani television with her remarkable storytelling. Her literary journey includes a vast range of novels, books, and short stories that captivate readers. Some of her famous works are Humsafar, Diyar-e-Dill, Dill sa Niklay Hain jo Lafz, and much more. Farhat Ishtiaq’s screenplays are also remained successful in her whole journey. Two of her novels Rehaai (2013) and Udaari (2016) have incorporated real societal issues, resulting in earning numerous awards. She has published Hindi editions of her works such as “Woh Yakeen ka Naya Safar” on platforms such as Amazon and she also released a Roman Urdu Edition of her short story “Rait sa But na Bana”.
Farhat Ishtiaq’s Work History
Some of the famous novels, books, and short stories by her are stated below:
| Born On | June 23, 1980 |
| Genres | Romance, Drama, Social Issues |
| Awards | Hum Honorary Phenomenal Serial Award 2013 (Best Writer Award) 4rth Hum Awarsd 2016 (Best Writer) |
| instagram.com/farhatishtiaq |
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Faiza Iftikhar
Faiza Iftikhar is a prominent Pakistani writer, known for her impactful contributions to the Pakistani television industry. Her capability to write on romantic and socially relevant topics, made her audiences to like the narratives. Faiza Iftikhar holds a master’s degree in Political Science and Sociology. She resides in Lahore with her son and two daughters. During her academic years, Faiza was inspired by the renowned Urdu novelist, Altaf Fatima, who encouraged her to pursue writing. Faiza Iftikhar’s exceptional talent has been recognized through various nominations and awards. Her some of the famous works includes writing for Ranjha Ranjha Kardi, Dill Lagi, and Prem Gali. Tich Button, a Lollywood film, is also written by Faiza Iftekhar. Her contributions to Pakistani drama have made her one of the most influential figures in the industry.
Faiza Iftikhar’s Work History
Some of her renowned novels and films are stated below.
| Genres | Romance, Social Dramas |
| Residence | Lahore, Pakistan |
| Awards | Lux Style Award for Best TV Writer (Ranjha Ranjha Kardi), Hum Award Nominations (Best Writer for Bilqees Kaur and Yahan Pyar Nahin Hai), PISA Nomination (Best TV Writer for Ranjha Ranjha Kardi) |
| Mentor | Altaf Fatima |
| Novels | Hissar-e-Mohabbat, Ghar Aangan, Mera Tera Khali Kamra Hoon, Phulaan De Rang Kalay, Saray Gulab Le Jana, Roag |
| Famous Drama | Pheli si mohabt |
Imran Nazir
Imran Nazir is another prominent personality in the world of Pakistani renowned writers. He is known for his unique and captivating storytelling and exceptional talent that impacts audiences and viewers alike. His career skyrocketed with the success of “Rishty” and “Muhabbat Aag Si” that earned widespread fame for being the Best TV Writer. As the head of content at Larachi Entertainment and a Freelance writer at Geo Entertainment he has made a significant contribution to the industry. His filmography includes a wide range of television dramas, each showcasing his creativity. Imran Nazir has ability to explore complex human relationships and emotions some of which includes jealousy, insecurity, and love and adds a unique dimension to his stories. In just few years Imran Nazir has established himself as a key player in the Pakistani drama industry and earned him a loyal fan following.
Imran Nazir’s Work History
Some of the most famous contributions by Imran Nazir are stated below:
| Born in | Lahore, Pakistan |
| Filmography | Topi Drama, Rishtey, Mohabbat Aag Si, Aas, Sada Sukhi Raho, Larka Karachi da, Kuri Lahore di, Khot, Nazr-e-Bad, Jithani, Pinjra, Rasm-e-Duniya, Thays, Kashf, Mehboob Aapke Qadmon Mein |
| Themes | Human relationships, Jealousy, Insecurity |
| Awards & Nominations | Nominated for Best TV Writer at the 15th Lux Style Awards (2016) |
Noor-ul-Huda Shah
Noor-Ul-Huda Shah was born on 22 July, 1951 is Hyderabad. Her career is marked by a deep commitment to addressing social issues and advocating for women’s empowerment through her creative work. Educated at Sindh University, she is known for her impactful storytelling and dedication to social change. “Jungle” was her first play, that aired in 1983 on Pakistan Television Corporation (PTV) and she started her career from here. The drama went successful and established her reputation as a writer who could blend education content with entertainment. Throughout her career she has written in both Sindhi and Urdu and produced many popular TV serials and scripts known for their meaningful content. She has performed her role in different media houses in Pakistan including Geo, Hum TV, and A-Plus television where she served as a CEO. In 2017, she joined Bol Network. In addition to all these services, she writes column for the online news forum HumSub, further extending her influence and advocacy. In 2013, she served as the information minister.
Noor-ul-Huda Shah Work History
Some of her renowned contributions to the industry are stated below:
| Born on | July 22, 1951 |
| Birth Place | Hyderabad, Sindh, Pakistan |
| Languages | Sindhi, Urdu |
| Awards | President’s Award for Pride of Performance (2008) |
| Publications | Short stories collection titled “Jala Watan” |
Aliya Bukhari
Aliya Bukhari is another famous Pakistani writer who began her career by contributing to Khawateen Digest, a popular women’s magazine, where her captivating storytelling gathered quickly a lot of loyal readerships. Over the time her novels and stories were shifted to television, earning her further reputation in the industry. One of her notable works, “Dil-e-Muztar” captured attention of a lot of audience and established her as an esteemed writer in the industry. The drama was highly praised for its compelling narrative that solidified her reputation. In addition to “Dil-e-Muztar”, her series “Mere Qatil Mere Dildar”, “Mausam” and “Maana ka Gharana” have been equally renowned showcasing her skills and thought-provoking content. Her literary contributions include a lot of novels that displays human emotions and true relationships alike. Aliya Bukhari’s books, dramas, magazines, short-stories, or novels have made significant impact among the audience, making her standout in the industry.
Aliya Bukhari’s Work History
Some of her renowned projects includes:
| Notable Works | Dil-e-Muztar, Mere Qatil Mere Dildar, Mausam, Maana Ka |
| Telefilms | Jeena Hai Mushkil |
| Awards & Nominations | 2012: Hum Award for Best Writer Drama Serial – Mere Qatil Mere Dildar (nominated), 2013: Hum Award for Best Writer Drama Serial – Dil-e-Muztar (nominated) |
| Language | Urdu |
| Career Start | Khawateen Digest |
Samira Fazal
Born in Karachi, Pakistan, Samira fazal is a prominent Pakistani author who has created some of the most memorable dramas in Pakistani television history. One of her most renowned works is “Dastaan” , an adaptation of Razia Butt’s famous feminist novel “Bano”. The drama very well explains the complexities of partition and its impact on personal lives. It earned Samira the best writer award for most challenging subject at the 1st Hum Awards in 2012. Her talent for explaining the difficult topics and situations is a proof in other popular dramas including “Vasl,” “Khamoshiyan,” “Bari Aapa,” and “Mera Naseeb.” Her script for “Mera Naseeb” won her the Lux Style Award for Best TV Writer in 2012, highlighting her exceptional skills in creating stories that resonate deeply with audiences. At the 1st Hum Awards, she was nominated for Best Writer Drama Serial for “Bari Aapa.” Her work on “Chup Raho” and “Mann Mayal” continued to earn her great repo, solidifying her reputation as one of Pakistan’s leading screenwriters.
Samira Fazal’s Work History
Some of her famous contributions includes:
| Born in | Karachi |
| Language | Urdu |
| Website | samirafazal.weebly.com |
| Profession | Author, Screenwriter |
Shahid Nadeem
Shahid Mahmood Nadeem is another Pakistani writer that comes in our list of one of the best writers in the Pakistani industry. He has made a lot of contributions to both the media and the arts. Born in 1947 in Sopore Kashmir he migrated and settled in Lahore, Pakistan. His early life is marked with the backdrop of political unrest. Shahid Nadeem’s career is marked by various ups and downs including his imprisonment three time between 1969 and 1979. He was forced to move to London where her worked for Amnesty international until 1988 continuing his advocacy from abroad. In addition to activism, his contributions to theater and television have been significant. As a director and writer, he has created variety of plays and TV series. His daughter from his first marriage, Savera Nadeem, is a well-known television actress. Later, Nadeem married Madeeha Gauhar, with whom he has two sons, Sarang and Nirvaan. Nirvaan has followed in his parents’ footsteps, becoming a TV, film, and theatre actor/director and a columnist for The Nation.
Shahid Nadeem’s Work History
Some of the famous films and plays by Shahid Nadeem includes:
| Date of Birth | 1947 |
| Place of Birth | Sopore, Kashmir |
| Television Dramas | Neelay Hath, Zard Dopehar, Uraan, Janjaal Pura |
| Significant Collaborations | Worked with Madeeha Gauhar and Ajoka Theater group |
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Anwar Maqsood:Best Drama Writer in Paksitan
Anwar Maqsood Hameedi was born on September 7, 1939, in Hyderabad. Maqsood’s early life began in Hyderabad, where he attended the Gulbarga Trust School in Aurangabad. In 1948, following the creation of Pakistan, his family migrated to Karachi, Pakistan settling in PIB Colony. Anwar’s large family is quite notable, with several members making significant contributions to Pakistani society. His sister, Fatima Surayya Bajia, was a writer who took on a maternal role after her early divorce, nurturing her siblings. His career in entertainment began with his work for PTV Home programs and being credited with discovering talents like Bushra Ansari and Moin Akhter, who are now a prominent figure in Pakistani television industry. Throughout his career he has received numerous awards including the pride of performance award by the Government of Pakistan in 1994, the Hilal-e-Imtiaz Award in 2013.
Anwar Maqsood’s Work History
Some of his notable contributions includes:
| Born on | 7 September 1939 |
| Place of Birth | Hyderabad State, British India (now in Pakistan) |
| Career | Scriptwriter, Television Presenter, Satirist, Humorist, Infrequent Actor |
| Notable Dramas | Aangan Terha, Chun Chunao, Talaash, Nadan Nadia, Colony 52 |
| Notable Lyrics | Wrote lyrics for Nestlé Nido Young Stars theme, “Meri Pyari Ammi Jaan” |
Syed Nabeel
Born and raised in Karachi, Syed Nabeel is a Pakistani writer and director. He pursued a degree in Commerce from Punjab University and later completed an MBA from Quaid-e-Azam University. His early career was marked by his involvement with the Saanjh Theatre Group in Islamabad from 1996 to 2000. During this period, he gained international recognition by participating in the Cairo International Festival for Experimental Theatre in 1997. Nabeel’s career in television began in 1993, with his first appearance in the show Dua on NTM. His career took off in 2003 when he began working with prominent television channels like PTV and Indus TV. In recent years, Nabeel has been active with shows like Dil Nawaz, which aired on APlus Entertainment in 2017, and has also been working on Aap Ko Kia Takleef Hai (Season 2) with Bol Entertainment. His creative projects also led to the direction of Junoon and Chehray on PTV Home, and the successful Tanveer Fatima BA on Geo Entertainment.
Syed Nabeel’s Work History
Below are given some of his most renowned contributions:
| Born in | Karachi, Pakistan |
| Career Start | 1993 |
| Television Debut | Dua (NTM) |
| Director | Aap Ko Kia Takleef Hai, Khudkalami, Junoon, Chehray, Shaadi Ka Laddu, Aap Ko Kia Takleef Hai (Season 2), Bandish |
| Writer | Naak Mein Dum, Half Set, Aap Ko Kia Takleef Hai, Main Aur Tum, Jaein Kahan Armaan, Rookhey Naina, Tanveer Fatima BA, Dil Nawaz |
| Actor | Dua, Half Set, Aap Ko Kia Takleef Hai, Rookhey Naina, Tanveer Fatima BA, Chemistry, Mera Haq |
| Other Work | Documentaries for International Development Partners (Norway), live shows for PTV (2004-2005) |
Tariq Ali
Tariq Ali was born on 21, October 1943 in Lahore. His family’s notable political legacy, including his mother’s connection to the Unionist Muslim League and his father’s commitment to progressive causes, shaped his early perspectives. Ali’s academic journey took him to Exeter College, Oxford, where he studied Philosophy, Politics, and Economics. His time at Oxford was marked by significant activism; he was elected President of the Oxford Union in 1965 and engaged with figures like Malcolm X. Tariq Ali’s career is marked by a series of influential books and critical works on global politics and conflicts. He has been involved in filmmaking too. His screenplay, The Leopard and the Fox was premiered in New York in 2007. In 2009, he co-wrote the screenplay for Oliver Stone’s South of the Border. He has been a member of the editorial committee of New Left Review and Sin Permiso.
Tariq Ali’s Work History
Some of the famous contributions by Tariq Ali includes:
| Born on | 21 October 1943 |
| Alma mater | Exeter College, Oxford, Government College University, Lahore |
| Notable Associations | Oxford Union President (1965) Member, International Marxist Group (IMG) Supporter of the Bolivarian Revolution in Venezuela |
| Nationality | Pakistani-British |
| Famous Drama | youtu.be/ogH_VYEiScw?feature=shared |
Saima Akram Chaudhry
Saima Akram Chaudhry, born on 23 June 1985, has made a significant mark in the television industry with her compelling storytelling. Her entry into the television industry came with her debut serial, Muhabbat Ab Nahi Hugi, which aired on HUM TV in 2014. The following year, she wrote for Anaya Tumhari Hui for Geo Entertainment, followed by a continuous series of successful projects that solidified her reputation. In 2020, her creativity extended to television films, with Love Siyappa and Dil Tera Hogaya airing on Geo TV. Chaudhry’s more recent works include Hum Tum and Chaudhry and Sons, both of which aired in 2022. Her 2024 telefilm Achari Mohabbat for ARY Digital signals her ongoing commitment to bringing fresh and captivating stories to audiences. She had further established herself with Adhi Gawahi on Hum TV.
Saima Akram Chaudhary’s Work History
Some of the major contributions of Saima Akram Chaudhary includes:
| Born on | 23 June 1985 |
| Alma mater | Islamia University, Multan |
| First Serial | Muhabbat Ab Nahi Hugi |
| Language | Urdu |
| Intsgarm Profiel | instagram.com/saima.akram.chaudhry |
Fatima Surayya Bajia
Fatima Surayya Bajia, born on September 1, 1930, made an indelible mark on Urdu literature and media, but unfortunately, she passed away on February 10, 2016. Despite never attending formal school, her education was carried out at home, guided by a family tutor. During 1947 partition, Fatima Bajia and her family migrated to Pakistan. Her career began in the 1960s when a delay in her flight led her to the PTV Islamabad station, where Director Agha Nasir noticed her. Fatima Surayya Bajiya’s first play was Mehmaan. Her career was marked by her advocacy for women’s rights through captivating storytelling. Her contributions to the arts are widely recognized too and she received various awards because of it, especially Pride of Performance Award in 1996 from the Pakistani government and Japan’s highest civil award. S. After the six years of research a biography was also released in name of her named as “Apki Bajia” by Syeda Iffat Hasan Rizvi.
Fatima Surayya Bajia’s Work History
Here are some of the notable writings by Fatima Surayya Bajia.
| Born on | 1 September 1930 |
| Died on | 10 February 2016 |
| Resting Place | Gizri Cemetery |
| Awards | Hilal-i-Imtiaz (2013) Pride of Performance (1996) |
| Famous Drama | Ana |
Top 16 Iconic Drama Writers in Pakistani Television History
Explore the creative minds behind some of the most memorable Pakistani dramas. These 16 iconic writers have significantly shaped the television landscape with their compelling stories and unique perspectives.
| Sr. | Drama Writer Name |
| 1 | Umera Ahmed |
| 2 | Mustafa Afridi |
| 3 | Khalil-ur-Rehman Qamar |
| 4 | Farhat Ishtiaq |
| 5 | Faiza Iftikhar |
| 6 | Sarwat Nazir |
| 7 | Imran Nazir |
| 8 | Noor-ul-Huda Shah |
| 9 | Aliya Bukhari |
| 10 | Samira Fazal |
| 11 | Shahid Nadeem |
| 12 | Anwar Maqsood |
| 13 | Syed Nabeel |
| 14 | Tariq Ali |
| 15 | Saima Akram Chaudhry |
| 16 | Fatima Surayya Bajia |
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Final Notice
The 16 best drama writers highlighted in this discussion by expert Tashheer writers have each contributed uniquely to the Pakistani television. As the industry continue to evolve, the legacy of these writers serves as a testament to the power of well-crafted storytelling. Their work remains as a source of inspiration for both current and future generations. If you wish to reach out to any of the renowned drama writers or other popular personalities mentioned, feel free to contact the Tashheer team. They can assist in facilitating connections and provide additional support.
About the Author: Alishba
