After Dhurandhar, Did Pakistan Drop Its Own Rival Show 'Jahannum Ba'raasta Jannat'?

Is Pakistan’s latest TV drama a response to the massive success of Dhurandhar? A show titled Jahannum Ba’raasta Jannat is now drawing attention online, with many social media users comparing it to the blockbuster franchise and questioning its intent.The series has gone viral through circulating clips, particularly among Indian audiences, who have been quick to highlight what they call inconsistencies and weak detailing. Several viewers have pointed out odd portrayals and inaccuracies, sparking a debate over whether the show is inspired by, or attempting to counter, Dhurandhar, directed by Aditya Dhar.Jahannum Ba’raasta Jannat, written and directed by Hussain Sahab, premiered on Pakistani channel Green Entertainment on March 29, 2026, and airs

every Sunday at 8 pm. The title translates roughly to “Hell Towards Paradise.” The show features actors including Jawed Sheikh, Umer Aalam, Momina Iqbal, and Bushra Ansari, and revolves around Pakistan’s efforts to counter alleged RAW operations.

Online criticism has largely centred on specific scenes. In one widely shared clip, viewers claimed Mumbai’s Bandra-Worli Sea Link was incorrectly labelled as “RAW Headquarters, New Delhi.” A user commented, “Weak detailing, it’s Mumbai yaar.”

Language portrayal has also drawn scrutiny. Some viewers noted that characters playing Indian agents use overly complex Urdu vocabulary that doesn’t reflect typical conversational speech. “Indians don’t generally use words like ‘Mukhalif’ in daily conversation,” one user observed.

Budget-related criticism has also surfaced, with another user remarking, “Pakistani reply to Dhurandhar. What budget?”

The show also features a familiar face for Indian audiences, veteran actor Jawed Sheikh, known for his roles in Bollywood films such as Namastey London, Dus, Apne, and Jannat. One user recalled his appearance as Shah Rukh Khan’s father in Om Shanti Om, adding a broader commentary on cross-border collaborations and political narratives.

The conversation around Jahannum Ba’raasta Jannat comes shortly after Pakistan’s Sindh Information Department labelled Dhurandhar as “propaganda” on X, while announcing its own project, Mera Lyari, which it said would present an “authentic story of pride and prosperity.”Meanwhile, the Dhurandhar franchise, helmed by Aditya Dhar and featuring actors like Ranveer Singh, Rakesh Bedi, Sanjay Dutt, Akshaye Khanna, Sara Arjun, Danish Pandor, and R. Madhavan, continues to dominate the box office, further fueling cross-border comparisons.