Khalil-ur-Rehman Qamar (Urdu: خلیل الرحمان قمر) is a prominent Pakistani screenwriter, playwright, director, lyricist, Urdu poet, occasional actor, and producer. He is widely recognized for his bold, dialogue-heavy, and often emotionally intense writing style in Pakistani television dramas and films.
Early Life and Education
Born on December 16, 1962, in Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan (age 63 as of 2026), he grew up in a modest family in the Shad Bagh neighborhood. His father was a daily wage laborer. He received his early education at a government high school in Shad Bagh, Lahore. Qamar showed an early interest in writing, composing his first poetry at age 7 after losing a cousin. He later pursued higher education, including an M.A. in Economics from Government College Lahore.
Before entering the entertainment industry full-time, he worked in banking, rising to the position of Vice President at the Bank of Punjab. He eventually left this career to focus on writing.
Career
Qamar began his professional writing career in the mid-1990s. He gained recognition for his work in Urdu television dramas, often featuring strong character development, romantic themes, and social commentary. His breakthrough came with notable serials, and he has since become one of Pakistan’s most celebrated and highest-paid drama writers.
Some of his most popular and acclaimed works include:
- Boota from Toba Tek Singh (1999) — His early notable drama.
- Pyarey Afzal (2013) — A massive hit known for its intense storytelling and performances.
- Sadqay Tumhare (2014) — An autobiographical series based on his own teenage love story.
- Meray Paas Tum Ho (2019–2020) — One of the highest-rated Pakistani dramas, exploring themes of love, betrayal, and relationships.
- The film Kaaf Kangana (2019), which he wrote and directed.
Qamar married his first wife, Rubi Naz, in 1985, and they have a son and a daughter. He later married a second wife, Rozina Qureshi, while still married to his first. Some of his works, like Sadqay Tumhare, draw from personal experiences, including early romantic relationships.
Controversies
Qamar is a polarizing figure due to his outspoken views, particularly on gender issues and women’s rights. He has faced significant criticism for comments perceived as misogynistic, including remarks opposing the Aurat March (a women’s rights movement in Pakistan) and using strong language in debates. Incidents include on-air arguments and public backlash over his statements on women and equality.
He has also been involved in personal controversies, such as allegations related to a leaked private video in 2024, leading to legal cases (e.g., bail granted in related matters as recently as 2026).