Pakistani actress Reema Khan is preparing to return to cinema after an absence of nearly 16 years, with her comeback confirmed in filmmaker Wajahat Rauf’s upcoming movie Panchi Pyare.

The announcement has generated excitement among fans and members of the film industry, as Reema remains one of the most recognised faces of Pakistani cinema.

Rauf said the project had received an encouraging response since its announcement, with people from both inside and outside the entertainment industry expressing their support.

He described Reema as a national treasure and a legendary actress, adding that Panchi Pyare is being developed as a family comedy with emotional elements and a broader Eid entertainment appeal.

According to the filmmaker, Reema agreed to join the project after liking its script.

Reema rose to prominence with the 1990 film Bulandi and went on to appear in more than 200 Urdu and Punjabi films during her career. Her popular projects include Nikah (1998), Mujhe Chand Chahiye (2000), Shararat (2003), Koi Tujh Sa Kahan (2005) and Love Mein Ghum (2011).

She also ventured into filmmaking and production with Koi Tujh Sa Kahan. In recognition of her contributions to the arts, she received the Pride of Performance award in 2019.

Her last major big-screen release was Love Mein Ghum in 2011, making Panchi Pyare her first major cinema appearance in around 16 years.

The filmmakers have yet to reveal details about her role or announce the complete cast.