Director Wajahat Rauf has revealed that his upcoming crime thriller Shandaar, set to air on Express Entertainment, takes inspiration from several real-life roadside killing cases that have sparked public debate in Pakistan. In an interview with The Express Tribune, Rauf explained that the 16-episode series is not based on a single incident but weaves together elements from multiple cases.
Inspiration from Real Events
Rauf stated, "These days we often hear about people being killed on the road. Later, reports emerge that influential people were allegedly involved, and the cases become widely discussed on social media." He noted that these incidents served as the starting point for Shandaar, which he describes as a fast-paced crime thriller rather than a direct retelling of any one event.
Ensemble Cast and Unique Characters
The series features a large ensemble cast, including Shamoon Abbasi, Shahzad Sheikh, Areeka Haq, Ali Dayan, Ahsan Afzal Khan, Laila Wasti, and several other actors. Shamoon Abbasi recently shared behind-the-scenes pictures on social media, offering fans a glimpse into the making of the series. Abbasi said, "My character in this drama is completely different from the roles I've played in the past. It was also my first experience working with Wajahat Rauf and I truly enjoyed every moment of it."
Distinctive Approach
When asked what sets Shandaar apart from other dramas currently on television, Rauf pointed to its grounding in real-life events and realistic performances. "I think the fact that it is inspired by true stories sets it apart. Besides that, we have a stellar ensemble cast, and the actors have portrayed their characters very realistically," he said. Rauf added that the makers aimed to present a gripping crime story with a fast-moving narrative while keeping the treatment as realistic as possible.
Premiere Details
The 16-episode series is expected to premiere soon on Express Entertainment.
