Karachi: Pakistani actor Sheheryar Munawar has expressed gratitude to fans in Bangladesh after his portrayal of Abu Bakar in the drama Dar e Nijaat received attention from Bangladeshi audiences and media outlets. Munawar shared an Instagram post highlighting a headline attributed to Bangladesh's Bengali language newspaper Prothom Alo, which described viewers in Dhaka as captivated by his character.
The actor reposted the coverage to acknowledge the response to his performance, which has generated discussion on social media in Pakistan, Bangladesh and India. The development comes as Pakistani television dramas continue to reach audiences beyond the country through YouTube and streaming platforms.
Munawar plays Abu Bakar in Dar e Nijaat, which began airing on ARY Digital on August 1, 2026. Written by Umera Ahmed and directed by Saqib Khan, the drama also stars Durefishan Saleem as Zaryab and Nameer Nawaz Khan as Zamil.
The story explores relationships, marriage, forgiveness and the decisions made by its characters. Abu Bakar's relationship with Zaryab has become a subject of discussion, with viewers commenting on his approach to disagreements and his willingness to support others.
Bangladeshi publication The Daily Star reported on November 4 that viewers had been debating the personalities of Abu Bakar and Zamil, with some praising Abu Bakar's conduct while others questioned whether his behaviour was realistic. Social media discussions have also compared the characters' approaches to relationships and emotional responsibility.
Despite the praise surrounding his role, Munawar has said Abu Bakar should not be regarded as a character without flaws. During an interview with BBC Asian Network presenter Haroon Rashid, the actor described Abu Bakar as someone who struggles to refuse requests and feels responsible for helping others. He explained that the character's upbringing had contributed to his tendency to prioritise other people's needs.
Munawar also discussed Abu Bakar's feelings towards Zaryab, saying he had incorporated clues about the character's interest in her during earlier episodes. The actor's comments prompted further discussion about the difference between the qualities audiences admire in fictional characters and the challenges those traits can create in relationships.
Pakistani dramas reach audiences across borders
The attention surrounding Dar e Nijaat reflects the role of digital distribution in bringing Pakistani television productions to viewers in neighbouring countries. Episodes and clips shared online allow audiences to follow dramas without relying entirely on television broadcasts.
In Bangladesh, several entertainment publications have reported on the series and its characters, particularly Abu Bakar and Zaryab. The response also illustrates how discussions about relationships and family life can connect audiences across linguistic and national boundaries. For Pakistani actors and production companies, such attention creates opportunities to reach viewers outside their domestic television market. However, social media reactions alone do not establish the size of a drama's audience in a particular country.
Munawar's acknowledgement of Bangladeshi fans comes as Dar e Nijaat continues to air, with discussions about its characters and storyline extending beyond Pakistan.
