The beloved Pakistani sitcom Bulbulay has reached a remarkable milestone — 16 years of non-stop entertainment. Let’s dive into how this bubble of laughter has managed to stay afloat for so long.
The discussion includes the show’s longevity, the magic behind it, and its significance for Pakistani television.
For over a decade and a half, laughter from the show Bulbulay has echoed in living rooms across Pakistan. The iconic sitcom Bulbulay celebrates 16 years of uninterrupted entertainment.
Premiering on ARY Digital on October 22, 2009, the show has become a national treasure—a source of humour, nostalgia, and unfiltered joy for millions of people.
The Milestone.
- Launched on ARY Digital in 2009, Bulbulay has kept audiences tuned in for more than a decade and a half.
- The cast and crew recently marked this achievement by expressing appreciation to viewers, highlighting the show’s enduring popularity.
- With over 700 episodes across two seasons, the sitcom stands as one of Pakistan’s longest-running shows.
What Makes It Work.
- Characters we recognise: the core family—Nabeel (played by Nabeel Zafar), Khoobsurat, Momo (Hina Dilpazeer), and Mehmood Sahab (Mehmood Aslam)—have become part of many households.
- Humour for all ages: As Nabeel revealed, the sitcom appeals to children and grandparents alike, making it cross-generational.
- Cultural resonance: It mirrors typical family dynamics in a light-hearted way, making it relatable for domestic audiences.
Impact on Pakistani TV.
- Ratings success: Early episodes hit high TRP numbers, helping ARY solidify its position in the entertainment sector.
- Longevity: To keep a sitcom fresh over 700 episodes is no small feat — the writing team, cast, and production must sustain creativity and audience interest.
- Cultural footprint: Bulbulay isn’t just a show; it’s part of Pakistan’s cultural conversation. It’s referenced, re-watched, and fondly remembered.
A Few Fun Facts.
- The series first aired on 22 October 2009.
- When it launched, its blend of slapstick, domestic mayhem, and quick-fire jokes was considered a breath of fresh air.
- Throughout its journey, the show faced legal and rights issues, including attempts to switch networks, yet it maintained its affiliation with ARY.
Why This Matters
Celebrating 16 years is more than just a number: it speaks to consistency, viewer loyalty, and creative stamina.
Bulbulay’s longevity stands out in an era when many shows last only a few months or seasons. For Pakistani entertainment, it’s a benchmark of sitcom success.
A Journey That Redefined Pakistani Sitcoms.
When Bulbulay first aired, few could have predicted its meteoric rise with a cast of misfit yet lovable characters.
The show presented a refreshing take on everyday life through exaggerated humour and absurd scenarios.
It wasn’t the typical family drama — it was a rollercoaster of mischief and laughter that reshaped what Pakistani audiences expected from a sitcom.
Nabeel Zafar, who also plays the main character, created and produced Bulbulay, which presented viewers with a peculiar household that is unlike any other.
The show’s success rests on the chemistry between Hina. The show features a quartet whose comedic timing has become legendary: Dilpazeer (Momo), Ayesha Omar (Khoobsurat), Mehmood Aslam (Mehmood Sahab), and Nabeel himself.
Their chaotic yet affectionate dynamic—from Momo’s endearing confusion to Mehmood Sahab’s exaggerated seriousness—created a timeless formula.
Fans often describe Bulbulay as a “comfort comedy”—a”show that you can return to after a stressful day and still find yourself laughing heartily.
The Secret Behind Its Longevity.
Reaching 16 years on air is no small feat in today’s fast-changing entertainment landscape. So, what keeps Bulbulay relevant and adored?
According to ARY News, the show’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to make people of all ages laugh.
“Whether you’re a child or a grandparent, Bulbulay speaks your language,” says lead actor and creator Nabeel Zafar.
The show’s multi-generational fan base is one of its strongest assets — parents who once watched it as teenagers now share it with their children.
The humour, though often slapstick, taps into the universal absurdity of family life.
Every episode—from minor arguments to humorous miscommunications—offers a comical portrayal of society.
Over the years, Bulbulay has aired more than 700 episodes, spanning two major seasons. Despite occasional channel shifts and production changes, it has maintained its identity and loyal audience.
Cultural Impact and Legacy.
Bulbulay has not just entertained — it has shaped Pakistani pop culture.
Catchphrases like Momo’s nonsensical one-liners or Mehmood Sahab’s stern outbursts have become household expressions.
Memes, short clips, and nostalgic compilations of the show flood social media, ensuring that their humour continues to evolve with the digital generation.
The sitcom’s success marked a significant milestone for ARY Digital, enabling the network to establish itself as a leading provider of family entertainment.
It proved that comedy rooted in local culture could thrive and dominate prime-time ratings.
Entertainment analysts at MM News TV highlight that Bulbulay’s biggest triumph is its “relatability without realism.” It’s silly, surreal, and exaggerated — but underneath the chaos, it reflects the warmth and dysfunction of every family.
A Toast to 16 Years of Laughter.
As Bulbulay celebrates its 16th anniversary, the cast and crew have expressed gratitude to fans for their unwavering love and support.
The ends hint at more episodes to come, teasing that the “madness isn’t over yet.”
From its first laugh in 2009 to its latest episode, Bulbulay remains Pakistan’s longest-running sitcom—a testament to the timeless power of humour.
Bulbulay remains a beacon of joy, nostalgia, and cultural continuity in a world of fleeting trends and short-lived shows.
Sixteen years later, Momo’s confusion still charms us, Mehmood Sahab still lectures, and Nabeel finds himself in trouble—and we wouldn’t have it any other way.