The recently released Indian web series trailer Gram Chikitsalay has raised debate on social media platforms, as fans highlight conspicuous similarities with the Pakistani drama Zard Patton Ka Bunn. The original Pakistani drama, under the direction of Saife Hassan and script written by Mustafa Afridi, featured on Hum TV and revolved around the realities of limited health care availability within rural populations. With exceptional performances by Hamza Sohail and Sajal Aly, the drama received mass appreciation, including a solid fan base in India.

Following the release of Gram Chikitsalay’s trailer, comparisons started emerging on the internet. Most fans are of the opinion that the Indian series’ plot and themes seem to be heavily inspired by Zard Patton Ka Bunn. Even the casting has been remarked upon, with people opining that the lead actor resembles Hamza Sohail quite closely, adding fuel to the fire of imitation speculations.

These responses come at a moment when Pakistani entertainment programming is under heightened censorship in India, particularly following the recent Pahalgam incident. Even as such bans continue, critics maintain that concepts from Pakistani productions remain imitated without giving credit.

Social media users were not shy, with comments like, “They banned our shows but are now remaking them for their audience,” and “Even the lead actor resembles Hamza Sohail.” Some social media users jokingly called the situation by labeling the industry as “Copywood.”

Until now, the authors of Gram Chikitsalay have yet to respond to the comparisons or provide clarification. In the meantime, the audience with knowledge of Zard Patton Ka Bunn is left feeling disappointed with what they perceive as a lack of originality and acknowledgement of the original production.

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