Zindagi Channel, known for its commitment to promoting cultural exchange, is all set to present the latest trending Pakistani show ‘Kabali Pulao’ for the first time on Indian television. This is a very special milestone in life, as it validates the decision of the Hon’ble Bombay High Court, which has lifted the ban on Pakistani artists in India. The launch is an example of Zindagi channel’s efforts to celebrate artistic freedom, diversity and the rich fabric of stories from both sides of the border.
‘Kabali Pulao’ is an unconventional and emotion-filled series, which has received rave reviews for its remarkable writing, direction and serious acting. Under the thoughtful direction of Kashif Nisar, well-known Pakistani writer Zafar Myraj has created an artistic story that reveals the complexities of human emotions. Watch this 18-episode series taking the audience on a heartwarming journey on 11 November 2023 at 10 PM, Monday to Sunday only on Life. Zindagi Channel DTH services are available on Dish TV, D2H, Tata Sky and Airtel. Also, both the countries (India and Pakistan) will watch the spectacular telecast of the finale of ‘Kabali Pulao’ together on Zindagi.
Kabali Pulao is a unique creation that reaches deep into the heart through the powerful performances of its lead actors – Mohammad Ehteshamuddin and Sabina Farooq, who breathed life into their characters. The show also features a mesmerizing original soundtrack ‘Ankhe’ sung by music maestro Rahat Fateh Ali Khan. This song has already created a space in the hearts of the audience and it shows the beauty of the Nagma show.
‘Kabali Pulao’ is the story of an honest man from Lahore, Haji Mushtaq aka Mohammad Ehteshamuddin, and a needy Afghan girl, Barbina, played by Sabina Farooq. The story revolves around how Haji (an ordinary bachelor who is around 50 years old) meets a young girl, Barbiena (20 years old), while seeking medical care for his sick mother. As Haji Mushtaq spends more time with the girl, he begins to see the world from a different perspective and falls in love for the first time in his life.
A show focusing on refugees and empowering female characters, Kabali Pulao has garnered over 100 million views on YouTube and counting. The show exemplifies progressive storytelling that invites viewers to connect with characters and form relationships that extend beyond the screen.
Ehteshamuddin, a freelance director of films like ‘Superstar’ and ‘Dum Mastam’ and TV shows like ‘Sadke Tumhare Mohammad’, who plays the lead role of Haji Sahib in the show, on the recent announcement of the telecast of ‘Kabali’. Pulao’ Hai in India, says, “The show explores the depth of love in the most unexpected and heart-warming way and shows the power of love, the pursuit of happiness and the intersection of cultures in an inspiring story. It is a beautifully written story, which goes deep into the human heart. Kabali Pulao will always hold a special place in my heart as it was perhaps one of the few occasions that I got the chance to appear in front of the camera in the role of Haji Mushtaq after being behind the camera for many years. It’s great to see the love and appreciation this show is getting. It is a great feeling to see this slice of life show being telecast in Pakistan as well as India and seeing the audience truly connect with this heartwarming cross-border journey. I am thrilled to be a part of it and now I am patiently waiting for the love and thoughts of the Indian audience.”
Lead actress Sabina Farooq, unlike her character in her recent hit show ‘Tere Bin’ where she played an evil character, will be seen in a completely different and lovable character as Barbiena in Kabali Pulao. Talking about the show’s release in India, she says, “Acting in Kabali Pulao has been an amazing journey of emotions. The depth of the characters and the realism of the story is unlike anything I’ve worked on before. It is a privilege to be part of a project that demonstrates the power of love to change lives. This particular story is beautifully reflected throughout the show and I am sure it will make an impact on everyone who watches it. I look forward to the Indian audience joining us on this emotional journey as ‘Kabali Pulao’ takes the audience into a believable world that makes them feel close to home.”
Director Kashif Nisar said, “Kabali Pulao is an exploration of love and life beyond the ordinary. Creating interesting stories that engage the audience has always been my passion. ‘Kabali Pulao’ allowed me to create a story that connects human emotions with the fascination of food traditions. My mission was to create a show that was faithful to the storytelling. Kudos to Sabina and Mohammad for portraying the raw and complex emotions of love with such care. His performance made an emotional impact on the audience and left a lasting impression with every scene. I feel very proud to present ‘Kabali Pulao’ to both Indian and Pakistani viewers, where Zindagi is going to air the grand finale together for the first time on Channel Television. Ultimately, our team is very grateful to Life for bridging this gap by showcasing content across borders and opening new doors for artists.”
