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Barzakh Drama Overview
“Barzakh” is a 2024 Pakistani fantasy television series directed and written by Asim Abbasi. The series, which stars Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed in the lead roles, premiered on 19th July 2024 on ZEE5. This intriguing drama delves into themes of love, loss, and mystical connections, set against the backdrop of Karachi and the picturesque Hunza Valley.
Barzakh Drama Story
The story of “Barzakh” revolves around Jafar Khanzada, a man who, in his youth, ventures to the city to amass wealth, hoping to buy a gold necklace for his beloved Mahtab. Tragically, upon his return, he discovers Mahtab’s death and her burial near her ancestors under a tree. Heartbroken, Jafar builds a resort at the site and prospers.
Decades later, now in his seventies and a father to two sons, Shehryar and Saifullah, from two different marriages, Jafar invites them to a wedding at the top of a mountain during a full moon. The twist lies in his declaration that the bride will be Mahtab, his only true love, who passed away years earlier. The narrative weaves through time, exploring themes of unrequited love and supernatural elements.
Barzakh Drama Cast
The cast of the drama serial Barzakh includes:
Fawad Khan as Shehryar
Fawad Khan is a prominent Pakistani actor renowned for his charismatic presence and versatile performances. He gained widespread acclaim with his roles in popular dramas like “Humsafar” and “Zindagi Gulzar Hai,” as well as the blockbuster film “The Legend of Maula Jatt.” In “Barzakh,” Khan portrays Shehryar, one of Jafar Khanzada’s sons, navigating the complex dynamics of his family and past. Known for his subtle yet powerful acting style, Khan brings depth and nuance to the character of Shehryar, adding layers to the mystical and emotional aspects of the series.
Sanam Saeed as Scheherezade
Sanam Saeed is a celebrated Pakistani actress known for her impactful performances and strong screen presence. She gained fame with her role in “Zindagi Gulzar Hai,” and continued to impress audiences with her work in films like “Cake.” In “Barzakh,” Saeed plays Scheherezade, a character that intricately weaves the mystical and the real, offering a compelling narrative arc. Her portrayal is marked by a blend of vulnerability and strength, making her a pivotal figure in the series. Saeed’s ability to convey deep emotions and her commanding on-screen presence add significant depth to the story.
Khushhal Khan / Salman Shahid as Jafar Khanzada
Khushhal Khan and Salman Shahid together bring to life the character of Jafar Khanzada at different stages of his life. Khushhal Khan depicts the younger Jafar, capturing his journey from a hopeful lover to a man determined to secure a better future. Salman Shahid portrays the older Jafar, a wealthy patriarch haunted by his past and his enduring love for Mahtab. Shahid’s portrayal is especially poignant, as he embodies the complexities of Jafar’s character, marked by regret, nostalgia, and an unfulfilled longing. Together, they create a rich tapestry of a man whose life is defined by love and loss.
Faiza Gillani as Tasleem
Faiza Gillani is a talented Pakistani actress known for her diverse roles in television dramas. In “Barzakh,” she plays Tasleem, a character that adds significant complexity to the narrative. Gillani’s portrayal of Tasleem is marked by subtlety and depth, showcasing her ability to handle intricate emotional scenes. Her performance enhances the drama’s exploration of interpersonal relationships and the mystical elements that permeate the story. With her nuanced acting, Gillani brings a grounded and relatable quality to the series.
Eman Suleman as Leena
Eman Suleman is a rising star in the Pakistani entertainment industry, known for her bold and impactful roles. In “Barzakh,” she portrays Leena, a character shrouded in mystery and integral to the unfolding plot. Suleman’s performance is characterized by a strong screen presence and the ability to convey complex emotions with finesse. Her role in the series highlights her versatility as an actress, as she navigates the delicate balance between the real and the supernatural. Suleman’s portrayal of Leena adds a fresh and intriguing dimension to the narrative.
Anika Zulfikar as Mahtab
Anika Zulfikar brings a haunting beauty to the character of Mahtab in “Barzakh.” As Jafar Khanzada’s long-lost love, Mahtab’s presence is felt throughout the series, influencing the lives of the other characters even after her death. Zulfikar captures the ethereal and melancholic essence of Mahtab, making her a pivotal figure in the story’s exploration of love and loss. Her portrayal is both tender and enigmatic, leaving a lasting impression on the audience. Zulfikar’s performance is a blend of grace and mystery, adding a crucial layer to the series’ mystical atmosphere.
Sajid Hassan as Jabbar
Sajid Hassan is a seasoned actor in the Pakistani entertainment industry, known for his versatility and commanding performances. In “Barzakh,” he plays Jabbar, a character that adds depth and gravitas to the narrative. Hassan’s portrayal is marked by a strong screen presence and the ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety. His character contributes to the unfolding drama and the mystical elements of the story. Hassan’s experience and talent bring a rich texture to the series, making his character an essential part of the storyline.
Fawad Khan as Saifullah
In “Barzakh,” Fawad Khan also takes on the role of Saifullah, showcasing his versatility as an actor. This dual role allows Khan to explore different facets of his acting range, portraying both Shehryar and Saifullah with distinct nuances. As Saifullah, he embodies a different set of challenges and emotions, adding complexity to the series’ exploration of family dynamics and mystical themes. Khan’s ability to differentiate between the two characters while maintaining a cohesive narrative thread is a testament to his skill and dedication as an actor.
Uzma Beg as Afroz
Uzma Beg is an accomplished actress known for her powerful performances in Pakistani dramas. In “Barzakh,” she plays Afroz, a character that deepens the series’ exploration of familial and emotional complexities. Beg’s portrayal of Afroz is marked by a commanding presence and a keen understanding of her character’s motivations and struggles. Her performance adds a layer of authenticity to the narrative, making Afroz a relatable and compelling figure. Beg’s contribution to the series is significant, providing a strong anchor for the unfolding drama.
Nighat Chaudhary as Saifullah’s Mom
Nighat Chaudhary plays the role of Saifullah’s mother in “Barzakh,” bringing a warm and nurturing presence to the series. Her character is crucial in understanding the family dynamics and the influence of the past on the present. Chaudhary’s performance is marked by subtlety and grace, capturing the complexities of a mother navigating her relationship with her sons and the memories of a lost love. Her portrayal adds depth to the series, highlighting the emotional and spiritual undercurrents that run through the narrative.
Barzakh Drama Production
“Barzakh” marks a significant collaboration between Pakistani and Indian producers. Announced in December 2021, the series reunites Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed under Asim Abbasi’s direction, following their iconic pairing in “Zindagi Gulzar Hai.” The production spanned from November 2021 to March 2022, with filming locations including Karachi and the stunning Hunza Valley.
Reception
Critical Response
The series has received praise for its artistic and narrative quality. Shilajit Mitra of The Hindu highlighted its “achingly, unabashedly artful” approach and lauded Fawad Khan’s portrayal of Shehryar. However, he noted a dip in the show’s mysticism during a “psychedelic freak-out” sequence.
Hafsah Sarfraz of DAWN Images commended the production’s high quality, emphasizing the beautiful visuals of the Hunza Valley and strong performances by the cast. Mahwash Ajaz of Khaleej Times appreciated the series’ artistic ambition, comparing its visuals to Renaissance paintings. However, she critiqued the pacing and excessive use of allegories.
Barzakh Drama Release Date
The highly anticipated series premiered worldwide at Series Mania in France in February 2023. It officially debuted on ZEE5 and the YouTube channel Zee Zindagi on 19th July 2024.
Barzakh Drama Timings
“Barzakh” is available for streaming on ZEE5 and on Youtube.
FAQs
What is the release date of “Barzakh”?
“Barzakh” premiered on 19th July 2024.
Where can I watch “Barzakh”?
The series is available on ZEE5 and the YouTube channel Zee Zindagi.
Who are the main lead characters in “Barzakh”?
The main lead characters are Shehryar, played by Fawad Khan, and Scheherezade, played by Sanam Saeed.
Who is the director and writer of “Barzakh”?
The series is directed and written by Asim Abbasi.
What genre does “Barzakh” belong to?
“Barzakh” is a fantasy drama that explores mystical and supernatural themes.
Which production house is behind “Barzakh”?
The series is a co-production between Pakistani and Indian production houses.
Who are the producers of “Barzakh”?
The show is produced under the collaboration of various production entities from Pakistan and India.