Famous Pakistani director, writer, and producer Wajahat Rauf is known for his successful films like Karachi Se Lahore, Lahore Se Aagey, Chhalawa, and Parde Mein Rehne Do. His dramas, including Pinjra, Hadsa, and Raqs-e-Bismil, have also earned him praise. Currently, his drama Goonj is airing on Hum TV and receiving good feedback from viewers. Wajahat is married to Shazia Wajahat, and the couple’s two sons, Aashir and Nail, are also talented artists.
Recently, Wajahat appeared on the FHM podcast with Adnan Faisal, where he strongly criticized the style of drama reviews done by shows like Kya Drama Hai, judged by Marina Khan, Nadia Khan, and Atiqa Odho.
He explained that criticism is still new in Pakistan’s drama industry. For decades, dramas aired without review shows, but now such programs are common. Sharing his thoughts, Wajahat said, “If you are reviewing, talk about the story, acting, and direction—if you actually understand direction. I saw a clip where reviewers spent minutes discussing Khaled Anam’s scene, where he made breakfast for his daughter and the egg was burnt. They kept asking why she ate the burnt egg. Is that really a review? These things make no sense. Reviews should have some calibre.”
He further stressed that logical criticism is always welcome, but picking on meaningless details is not the right approach. “You can question the story, but saying things like why someone wore certain socks, used an orange cup, or chose a particular outfit isn’t valid criticism. If your only goal is to get views, then of course you’ll talk negatively. But if you really understand the craft, then criticize with depth and knowledge,” he added.
Wajahat Rauf’s comments highlight an important issue in the entertainment industry—that reviews should focus on substance and creativity rather than unnecessary details.