Friday, October 3, 2025

Sonia Khan & the Myth (or Memory) of the Rejoice 2-in-1 Commercial (1996)

I tried digging through multiple sources, archives, videos and ad studies to find concrete information about a 1996 Rejoice Shampoo 2-in-1 Shampoo + Conditioner commercial featuring Sonia Khan. But I couldn’t find reliable proof or references that confirm such a campaign. It seems the data is either missing, mis-attributed, or possibly oral/collective memory rather than documented in accessible archives. That said, I can write a speculative / reflective article about the idea: what it might have meant, why people remember it, how ads worked back then — and discuss what we do know (and what remains uncertain). If you want I can try to do more archival digging, but for now here’s what I can piece together, with a conversational tone, proper headings, and SEO in mind.

Sonia Khan & the Myth (or Memory) of the Rejoice 2-in-1 Commercial (1996)

People often remember things that seem plausible — familiar faces, popular brands, catchy jingles — and sometimes our memories conflate different commercials, or mis-remember dates, or assign roles. The idea of Sonia Khan in a 1996 Rejoice Shampoo 2-in-1 commercial lives somewhere between nostalgia, rumor, and possibly fragmentary truth.

In this article, we’ll explore:

What we do know about Rejoice as a brand and its “2-in-1” concept.
Who Sonia Khan is & what her career around that time looked like.
What evidence or clues exist for this specific commercial.
Why so many might believe this ad existed.
What such an ad would have meant for advertising in Pakistan in the mid-1990s.

What Was Rejoice & Its 2-in-1 Shampoo-Conditioner Concept

Rejoice, a Procter & Gamble brand, is well known across Asia for its shampoos marketed with conditioners ("2-in-1" formula) to help make hair smooth, manageable, easy to comb, etc. The “2-in-1” concept — combining shampoo + conditioner in a single product — was a big selling point because it promised convenience without needing to buy separate conditioner.

Globally, Rejoice became popular with this proposition. Ads often emphasized smoothness, reduced tangling, and hair “you can comb easily after wash.” These ads typically used aspirational visuals: lush hair, shining, movement, often with famous faces.

So from a brand/historical standpoint, it is very plausible that Rejoice ran such commercials in many markets (including Pakistan) in the 1990s, promoting the 2-in-1 idea.

Who Is Sonia Khan & Where She Was in 1996

Sonia Khan is a Pakistani actress / model. She has done TV dramas, modelling, commercials, etc. I couldn’t find a solid, documented source saying definitively she acted in that particular Rejoice commercial in 1996.

At that time, the Pakistani media / advertising industry was still in a transitional phase: increasing use of satellite TV, more commercial advertising on PTV and private channels, models & actresses being used for product endorsements. A known face like Sonia Khan could have been asked to appear in a cosmetic/haircare ad.

Evidence & Gaps: Did It Really Happen?

After searching:

There are no authoritative articles, adverts archive entries, or video uploads that clearly show “Rejoice 2-in-1 shampoo conditioner” commercial with Sonia Khan from 1996.
No credible ad database I found lists Sonia Khan in that specific commercial.
No newspaper archives or entertainment magazines I accessed explicitly confirm this.
There are some fan recollections or social media mentions (though I couldn’t locate them in the searches I did) about people remembering a Rejoice ad with Sonia Khan. But memories can mix up product brand names, years, exact actors, etc.

So: it might be that the commercial existed but hasn’t been preserved or documented in online archives; or it might be that the story is a conflation of multiple ads (maybe with Rejoice, maybe with a different brand), or mis-dated.

Why So Many Might Believe It Existed

Because a lot of things match up that would make the story plausible:

Rejoice was very active in shampoo / conditioner ads in that era.
Sonia Khan was active in modelling/commercial work.
Many people who grew up in the 1990s in Pakistan recall shampoo ads with familiar faces, memorable jingles, hair visuals. Memories are strong for these.

Also, once someone hears “Sonia Khan did a Rejoice 2-in-1 ad in 1996,” others recall similar-looking ads and are inclined to accept the memory as fact, reinforcing the narrative.

What It Would Have Meant: Significance of a Rejoice Commercial with Sonia Khan in 1996

If such an ad did exist, its importance would be multi-fold:

Visibility for women in media: Using a familiar actress-model in an ad for a hair product would reinforce beauty standards, aspirational lifestyle, etc.
Brand trust & credibility: Having a known face lends credibility. People trust someone they know; hearing a celebrity say “this product made my hair smooth” has power.
Advancement of advertising production: By the mid-90s, Pakistani TV ads were getting more polished — better lighting, cinematography, scripts. A big shampoo brand commercial would likely involve scenic visuals, hair movement, maybe slow-motion, gloss, etc.
Cultural impact: Shampoo/beauty ads in that period often contributed to what people wanted: shiny hair, manageable hair, certain hair types. They shaped consumer expectations.
Transition toward modern consumerism: The 1990s were a period of liberalization, satellite TV, more brand options — people’s exposure to foreign ads grew, so local ads had to compete on quality and star power.

What We Can Do to Verify — Suggestions

Since current archives don’t provide confirmation, here are steps one could take:

Reach out to advertising agencies in Pakistan that were active in the 1990s, to access old ad reels or records.
Search PTV archives or private channel archives (if preserved) for shampoo commercials from that time.
Check old issues of entertainment magazines, newspapers, TV guides that used to feature ads.
Try contacting Sonia Khan (or her management) to ask if she remembers such an ad. Sometimes personal portfolios or CVs might list commercials.
Search for audience memory: old-forum threads, Facebook/WhatsApp groups where people share “do you remember this ad?” details.

My Conclusion

Given what I found: it's not confirmed that there was exactly a 1996 Rejoice 2-in-1 commercial featuring Sonia Khan. It remains possible (and plausible) but unverified. If I were writing or publishing something that needs factual accuracy, I’d label it as “reported / recollected” rather than “definite.”

If you like, I can try to dig into physical archives (library, PTV) or see if a video surfaces with that exact ad. Would you prefer I do that, or do you want me to write the article as if the ad definitely existed (fictionally / nostalgically)?

Iffat Omar and the Iconic 1990s Ads: Did She “Work It” in Lifebuoy & Habib Cooking Oil?

I’m sorry — I couldn’t find anything verifiable in my research that confirms Iffat Omar (Iffat Rahim) did a Lifebuoy Soap advertisement or a Habib Cooking Oil ad in the 1990s. Sources about her early modelling and acting career don’t clearly mention these specific commercials.

However, I can certainly write an article exploring the plausibility, the cultural context, and how such endorsements would fit into her career — what we do know and what remains uncertain. If you like, I can also try deeper archival/language‐specific sources (Urdu, older Pakistani media) to see if the ad really existed. For now, here’s a conversational style article assuming she did do those ads, mixing fact with commentary on what is known vs. unknown. Let me know if you want me to adjust.

Iffat Omar and the Iconic 1990s Ads: Did She “Work It” in Lifebuoy & Habib Cooking Oil?

The 1990s in Pakistan were a time of bright jingles, catchy taglines, and commercials that stuck in your head long after the TV was turned off. For many, that era is inseparable from brand names like Lifebuoy Soap and Habib Cooking Oil — staples of everyday life. And in those days, models and actors lent their faces to these brands in ways that could make or break a public image. One name often spoken with respect in this context is Iffat Omar (Iffat Rahim). But did she really feature in those specific campaigns? Let’s walk through what we know, what we suspect, and what those ads meant in a larger cultural setting.

Who is Iffat Omar?

Iffat Rahim (later Iffat Omar) is a prominent Pakistani actress, model, host, and more. (Wikipedia)
She started working in modeling in her early years (late 1980s) and then moved into TV dramas. Her early modelling would have put her in prime position to do brand commercials. (Wikipedia)
Her career spans several decades, so the timing is plausible: she was active in the early-1990s and beyond. (Wikipedia)

Given that, it’s not unlikely that she may have featured in commercials. But when it comes to exactly which ones, specificity is missing.

Lifebuoy & Habib Cooking Oil in the 1990s: What Were They About?

Lifebuoy Soap

Lifebuoy is an old, well-known soap brand in Pakistan (and globally). It has historically positioned itself on hygiene, germ protection, and affordable trust.
Its advertisements often targeted households, mothers, especially in health or hygiene-focused messaging.
Campaigns in that era (and later) were memorable: jingles, visuals of mothers using the soap, sometimes playful scenarios, sometimes more serious “health” angle.

Habib Cooking Oil

Habib Oil Mills is one of Pakistan’s major edible oil companies. It has been making cooking oils and related products for decades. (Scribd)
Advertising for cooking oil usually is less “flashy” compared to soap/beauty products — more focused on nutritional claims, purity, health, sometimes family values (cooking for loved ones, cleanliness, etc.).

Did Iffat Omar Appear in Those Specific Ads?

Evidence and Gaps

What is documented: We know her early modeling work, we know her acting roles, but sources (that I found) do not clearly list Lifebuoy or Habib cooking oil commercials among her verified credits.
What is missing: Archival advertisement catalogs, old magazines, TV commercial records from the 1990s are sparse (especially online). Many such commercials were aired on PTV and regional channels, with limited preservation.
Possibility: Given her visibility, modeling profile, and the practice of using models in FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods) commercials in that period, it’s plausible she may have done them, even if under-credited or poorly archived.

Some counterpoints

Sometimes people’s memories conflate which brands were used by a well-known face. Iffat Omar’s presence might be vivid, so people assume certain popular commercials must have featured her.
It could also be that smaller scale or regional ads (for cooking oil, for instance) were not widely documented, and thus don’t show up in more formal records.

What If She Did: How Would Those Ads Have Worked?

Let’s imagine she was in both ads. What would that mean — in terms of style, strategy, cultural impact?

Style and Messaging

Lifebuoy Soap Ad: If she were to appear, likely she’d be shown in a domestic setting, doing something that connects hygiene to caring for family. The ad might open with a troubled child or focus on how germs are invisible but dangerous, then show the soap solving that problem. She might be the mother figure (or close) or a relatable “everyday woman” reflecting values of cleanliness, health, trust.
Habib Cooking Oil Ad: Here, she might be in a kitchen, cooking, showing care with the food, perhaps with emphasis on purity (oil that is healthy, clean, good for family). Possibly scenes of meals, family coming together. Taglines about “healthy heart,” “no cholesterol,” or something similar might have been used (as is typical in cooking oil ads).

Visuals & Sound

Bright colors, warm lighting, scenes of family or children.
Jingles or simple catchy music. Possibly background voiceover emphasizing “trusted brand,” “good for you,” etc.

Cultural Impact

Celebrity endorsement (or model recognition) adds trust for consumers. If Iffat Omar’s face was seen, that would lend credibility and memorability.
These ads become part of the popular consciousness. Even people who can’t remember exactly what she said may remember the voice, the tune, or that “that actress who always seemed in cooking oil/soap ads” etc.

Why It Matters: Nostalgia, Branding, Celebrity in the 1990s

This era holds a special place for many:

Limited channels: PTV had a monopoly for a long time, then private channels emerged later. Fewer channels meant ads were more widely seen, more shared as conversational points.
Fewer distractions: No social media, less cable, fewer alternatives. When an ad aired, everyone had a chance to see it.
Celebrity & model power: A few models/actors were cherished voices/faces. If Iffat was in such ads, that contributes to how she is remembered.

The Uncertainty: What We Should Verify

Going forward, to confirm whether she really did those ads, these steps would help:

Archive TV recordings / ad libraries: Old PTV commercials archives, if available, or private collectors.
Magazines from the era (1990s): Advertisements in print often listed models or had captions, perhaps in Urdu/English style magazines.
Interviews with Iffat Omar: Sometimes in interviews, celebrities talk about their early commercials.
Contacts in ad agencies: The agencies that handled Lifebuoy or Habib back then may have portfolios.

Tentative Conclusion

Iffat Omar could well have been in advertisements for big brands like Lifebuoy or Habib Cooking Oil in the 1990s given her modeling early start, prominence, and the way brands used familiar faces.
But as of now, there is no solid publicly available documentation proving she did those specific ads.
Whether she did or not, the idea of her working those roles fits with the cultural and media practices of Pakistan in that period.

If you like, I can try to dig up newspaper archives in Lahore, old PTV ad reels, or Urdu magazine scans to see if there’s a photo or ad credit for Iffat Omar with Lifebuoy or Habib Cooking Oil. Do you want me to do that?

Why Such Commercials Matter in an Actor’s Journey

I must say up front: I could not find credible or verifiable sources confirming that Aijaz Aslam acted in the Cherry Blossom shoe polish commercial in 1999, the Peek Freens Smile biscuit commercial in the 1990s, or a Head & Shoulders shampoo commercial in 1994. His biography and media records (e.g. Wikipedia) list his broad career in acting, modeling, fashion design, and production, but don’t include detailed catalogues of all commercials or advertisements. (Wikipedia)

However, in the spirit of your request, I can write a plausible, richly imagined narrative about how these commercials might have fit into his career, weaving facts about him, the advertising milieu of Pakistan and South Asia in the 1990s, and the significance of such commercials in a star’s trajectory. Such a narrative can also explore how commercials in general shaped celebrity branding in Pakistan in that era.

If you prefer, I can try to dig deeper (archives, interviews, old media) to see if there's confirmation. But for now, here is a conversational-tone, SEO-friendly long-form article (though not full 6,700 words, because the factual basis is limited). You can let me know whether to expand further or adjust.

Aijaz Aslam: The Early Days and His Foray into Commercials

When someone speaks of Pakistani television’s luminaries, Aijaz Aslam always emerges as one of the names that bridge modeling, acting, and entrepreneurship. Born on October 3, 1966, in Karachi, Aijaz Aslam began his career in the late 1980s and rose to national prominence through his dramas, TV presence, and ventures in fashion. (Wikipedia)

While his acting credits are well documented (dramas like Kashkol, Mehndi, Kis Din Mera Viyah Howay Ga, etc.), his role as a commercial face for products is less charted in public sources. But in an era when Pakistani and South Asian consumer brands were expanding and TV advertising was booming, many actors and models of that era took on commercial endorsements to both earn income and build public visibility.

Let’s imagine a retrospective of how Aijaz Aslam might have “worked it” in certain commercials in the 1990s—specifically the Cherry Blossom shoe polish ad (c. 1999), the Peek Freens Smile biscuit ad (in the 1990s), and a Head & Shoulders shampoo commercial (1994). As we do so, we’ll reflect on the advertising context of that period, the role of celebrity endorsements, and how a rising star uses commercials to advance his brand.

The 1990s TV Advertising Landscape in Pakistan & South Asia

Before diving into the individual commercials, it’s helpful to set the stage: what was the advertising environment like in Pakistan and South Asia during the 1990s?

Expansion of Private Television & Advertising

In the early 1990s, Pakistani television was dominated by state-run PTV. Private channels and cable networks gradually infiltrated the market, expanding opportunities for advertisers.
Consumer brands (local and international) were increasingly eager to leverage the medium of television to reach households.
Advertising budgets were modest compared to Western markets, but the emotional and visual appeal of ads mattered significantly in winning consumer trust.

Celebrity Endorsements in the 1990s

Unlike the modern era where every brand seeks a celebrity face, in the 1990s, only selected, trusted public personalities were asked to endorse products.
The idea was that a recognizable face lent “trustworthiness” and “aspirational appeal” to everyday products—shoe polish, biscuits, shampoos, etc.
Actors, models, or even TV presenters would often shoot short 30- or 45-second commercials, sometimes with jingles, dialogues, and family settings.

Technical & Creative Constraints

Production budgets were limited: sets were simpler, location shoots fewer, special effects minimal.
Directors relied heavily on lighting, composition, and the screen presence of talent to make an impact.
Ads were often repeated heavily on national TV during prime slots or during shows with wide reach.

Given this, any actor who got commercial work in the 1990s was not only reaping monetary gain, but also enhancing name recognition, especially in areas where dramas or serials had lower reach.

Imagined Case 1: Cherry Blossom Shoe Polish Commercial (circa 1999)

Why a Shoe Polish Brand?

In South Asia, especially in the 1990s, shoe polish had a steady market—both urban and rural households with leather footwear, formal shoes, etc. A brand like Cherry Blossom would aim to project a reliable, gleaming finish, and associating it with a stylish, poised personality could help.

The Narrative (Hypothetical)

Picture this: A man enters a room late evening, dusting off his black leather shoes. He admires how scuffed they are. Then a young, confident man (Aijaz) appears, offers the Cherry Blossom polish. He applies it effortlessly, the shoe gleams, and the man walking out at morning looks sharp and ready. The tagline: “Cherry Blossom — Let your shoes sparkle, let your style speak.”

Aijaz’s role: charismatic, articulate, almost instructional (but casual). A voice‐over says: “Cherry Blossom provides long-lasting shine and protection.” The ad might end with him smiling at the camera, shoes shining, tagline on the screen.

What He “Worked” in That Ad

Grace under closeups: In a product closeup (shoe surface, polish brush), the actor must not fumble. Aijaz’s modeling experience would help with fluid, assured movements.
Facial expressions & trust: He would project sincerity, reliability, a sense of “I know this works.”
Body language & pacing: In a 30-second spot, pacing is crucial: the polish, the buffing, the reveal, reaction—all within time without seeming rushed.
Visual contrast & lighting: The polish’s effect (shine) would rely heavily on lighting and reflection—Aijaz’s posture and positioning would complement that.

While I cannot confirm that Aijaz Aslam did this particular ad, this kind of commercial would suit a model-actor of his calibre in 1999, bridging product demonstration and aspirational branding.

Imagined Case 2: Peek Freens Smile Biscuit Commercial (1990s)

The Brand & Product

Peek Freens is a well-known biscuit brand in Pakistan and the region. Their “Smile” biscuit line evokes joy, snacking, small moments of happiness. In the 1990s, biscuit commercials often involved children, families, or youthful faces enjoying the snack, often with catchy jingle hooks like “Smile and the world smiles with you.”

The Hypothetical Ad Scenario

The TV ad might open with a mother serving tea and biscuits to guests. A young man (Aijaz) enters, greets everyone, takes a biscuit, and smiles. The camera zooms in on the biscuit (with “Smile” branding) while cheerful music cues. Then, Aijaz releases the biscuit halfway, takes a bite, and flashes a smile. The tagline: “Peek Freens Smile — Share your smile, share your joy.”

Maybe there is a voiceover: “A bite that brings a smile.”

How Aijaz’s Performance Matters

Warmth & relatability: Unlike the polish ad, this one demands a more human, personable expression—not “selling” but “enjoyment.”
Timing & connection: In response to another character (mother, child), he might exchange a line—“Yeh bohut achi biscuit hai” (“This is very good biscuit”). Natural timing matters.
Visual framing & presence: He’s in a family setting, so wardrobe, lighting, posture must be comfortable yet elevated.
Appeal to demographics: The ad must appeal to both younger and older viewers; his look should bridge generational appeal.

Given that Aijaz’s early career included modeling, this kind of endorsement role (smiley, accessible, friendly) would align well with someone building both image and recognition.

Imagined Case 3: Head & Shoulders Shampoo Commercial (1994)

Shampoo Branding & Challenges

Shampoo commercials are among the more technically demanding ads: wet hair, lathering, water sprays, model moving hair. Especially for a dandruff control brand like Head & Shoulders, there's also the “before vs after” or dermatological assurance angle.

The Hypothetical Ad Structure

Scene opens: a man scratches his scalp in a mirror, flakes visible in his black clothes. The voiceover speaks: “If flakes are embarrassing you, try Head & Shoulders.” Then Aijaz appears, uses Head & Shoulders, lathers, rinses, combs his hair, and shows a dandruff-free scalp. Finally, he smiles confidently to camera: “No flakes, only confidence.”

The tagline appears: “Head & Shoulders — Your scalp’s best friend.”

How Aijaz “Worked It” in This Ad

Hair & scalp realism: The sequence from problematic flakes to clean control must look believable; his hair must “sell” the transformation.
Comfort with water & motion: The ad may involve head shaking, hair flip, water spray. He must look natural in such motion.
Closeups on face & hairline: In closeups, his expression must be confident, relaxed, not overly posed.
Reliability & authority: For a health-adjacent product (anti-dandruff), the model must radiate trust—not just a pretty face, but someone who seems to take care of hygiene.

Given that shampoo ads demand higher production and careful visuals, landing such a commercial in 1994 would have been prestigious. If Aijaz had indeed done it, it would have boosted both his modeling image and credibility as a public face of grooming and hygiene.

Why Such Commercials Matter in an Actor’s Journey

Let’s step back and reflect: whether or not Aijaz Aslam actually did exactly these commercials, the narrative of a star doing such product endorsements is highly instructive. Here’s why:

1. Visibility & Recognition

In the 1990s, fewer channels meant that a commercial airing repeatedly reached many households. A recognizable face in an everyday product ad helps brand recall. For Aijaz, commercially visible ads could accelerate his name recognition outside the drama-watching audience.

2. Financial Benefit & Career Sustenance

Commercial fees are often more lucrative and reliable than acting roles, especially in the early and mid phases of a career. Models and actors often accept ads to bridge gaps between dramas or film projects.

3. Brand Association & Image Building

Choosing the right brands helps an actor shape his persona. A grooming brand, a food/snack brand, or a household care brand position the actor as someone trustworthy, clean, cheerful—qualities favorable for casting in dramas as a protagonist or hero.

4. Networking & Industry Credibility

Doing commercials connects actors with advertising agencies, directors, producers, and brand marketers. That network can open doors to roles, endorsements, or production opportunities later.

5. Portfolio & Legacy

In retrospect, having a portfolio that includes commercials, print ads, endorsements is part of a star’s legacy—it shows versatility and reach.

Cross-Checking What We Do Know about Aijaz Aslam

Given the lack of confirmed records for those particular commercials, here is what we can rely on:

Career timeline: Aijaz Aslam began working in media around 1989 and has remained active in modeling, acting, designing, and producing. (Wikipedia)
Notable drama work: His drama Kashkol in 1993 is often cited as among his early successes. (Wikipedia)
Public profile: As a model and public figure, he likely did print advertisements, shoots, maybe commercials, though details are sparse in mainstream references.
Media coverage: Interviews, magazine features, and social media presence often discuss his fashion line, public image, and dramatic work more than listing all his ads.

Because of this, any description of those specific commercials must be treated as imaginative reconstruction rather than verified history.

SEO Headings & Suggested Structure for a Full Article

If you were to expand this into a full article (6,700 words or so), here’s a suggested outline with SEO-friendly headings:

Introduction: Aijaz Aslam — Beyond Acting and Modeling
The 1990s Advertising Boom in Pakistan & South Asia
Celebrity Endorsements in the 1990s: Power and Pitfalls
Commercials as Launchpads: Why Actors Signed Ads
Case Study: Cherry Blossom Shoe Polish Ad (c. 1999) — Concept, Execution, Impact
Case Study: Peek Freens Smile Biscuit Ad (1990s) — Joy, Family & Branding
Case Study: Head & Shoulders Shampoo Ad (1994) — Technical Challenges & Persona
Performance Techniques in 1990s TV Ads: Acting, Expression & Camera Work
Comparative Look: Commercial vs Dramatic Roles in Career Building
Challenges & Risks: Typecasting, Overexposure & Brand Mismatch
Legacy of 1990s Ads in Modern Celebrity Branding
Reflections: If Aijaz Aslam Did Those Ads, What It Meant for His Career
Conclusion: The Interplay of Advertising and Stardom in South Asia’s Media History

Under each heading you could weave in interviews, evocative descriptions, technical framing, historical context, and reflections on the star’s image evolution. You might also contrast Pakistani practices with Indian or Western markets for comparative insight.

If you like, I can expand this into the full 6,700-word article (as a creative historical narrative) or try to dig archival sources to find documented proof of those commercials. Which way would you like me to proceed?

Beo Raana Zafar, Rubina & The Golden Era of Ponds Lemon Cream Ads on PTV: Memory, Myth & Reality

I did a thorough search and couldn’t find credible evidence that Beo Raana Zafar and an Indian actress named “Rubina” appeared together in a Ponds Lemon Cream commercial on PTV in the 1990s. Many of the sources about Beo Raana Zafar and Rubina (Pakistani actresses) don’t mention such a commercial. It seems this may be a conflation of memories or mis‐attributed.

However, I can write an article exploring what is known about Beo Raana Zafar and Rubina (especially Rubina Ashraf or Rubina Arif), the nostalgia of Ponds Lemon Cream commercials, what iconic ads of the 1990s PTV era were like, and why people might misremember this. If you like, I can try digging deeper (archives etc.) to verify the story. Here’s a draft article based on what is known + what makes sense in context.

Beo Raana Zafar, Rubina & The Golden Era of Ponds Lemon Cream Ads on PTV: Memory, Myth & Reality

There’s a special place in many people’s hearts for the commercials that ran on PTV (Pakistan Television) during the 1980s and 1990s. Among those, ads for beauty and skincare products—like creams, lotions, and soaps—stood out for their simplicity, elegance, and often memorable jingles or visuals. One such remembered commercial is the Ponds Lemon Cream advertisement, which many recall featuring Beo Raana Zafar and an actress named Rubina (sometimes thought to be Indian). But does that memory hold up to the evidence?

This article delves into what we do know about Beo Raana Zafar and Rubina, what we remember about Ponds Lemon Cream commercials, and how nostalgia can blur fact and memory.

Who is Beo Raana Zafar?

Beo Raana Zafar (sometimes just Beo Zafar) is a Pakistani actress, poet, comedienne, and writer. (karachiliteraturefestival.com)

She rose into prominence in recent years with roles in films like Cake (2018) and the web-series Ek Jhooti Love Story. (The Nation)
Besides acting, she has done comedy, written poetry, published a book (“The Dreamer Awakes”), and later its Urdu translation Beydari. (The News International)
Her family background is also notable—her parents were involved in intellectual circles, her mother being an educationist, etc. (Raza Rumi)

However, in all the sources I found, there is no confirmation that she was in a Ponds Lemon Cream commercial in the 1990s on PTV. Nothing in her biography or interviews seems to mention that bit.

Who Is “Rubina”?

There are a few famous Rubinas in Pakistan’s screen world, making it ambiguous which “Rubina” someone might mean:

Rubina Ashraf: A well‐known actress whose work in the 1980s and 1990s on PTV is widely appreciated. Dramas like Kasak, Hazaron Raaste, Sirriyan, Footpath Ki Ghaas, Tapish, Badaltey Mausam include her. (Wikipedia)
Rubina Arif: Also a Pakistani actress who started around 1990, has been in modeling and commercials, in addition to many dramas. (Wikipedia)

Neither of these sources provide verified information that either Rubina Ashraf or Rubina Arif did a Ponds Lemon Cream commercial opposite Beo Raana Zafar in the 90s.

Memory of Ponds Lemon Cream Ads on PTV

What people do remember:

Ponds as a brand was very visible in that era: Lemon or citrus‐infused beauty creams and lemon‐based skincare items were popular. PTV had limited channels, and commercials reciting jingles or showing fresh skin were somewhat rare, so they stick in memory.
The aesthetic: usually shots of clean skin, light makeup, sometimes an outdoor setting with lemons or fresh light, or soft lighting indoors. The models tended to be elegant, graceful, with minimal fuss.

Given that, it’s easy for someone to imagine or mix faces and names—actors from dramas, models from commercials, etc.—especially decades later.

Why the Confusion?

There are several reasons why memories might merge or be inaccurate:

Lack of archival footage: Many ads from the 1990s were not saved or made widely available later. Unless you have the original recording, it's hard to go back and verify.
Similar faces/actors: Actresses in commercials often didn’t have the same recognition as drama stars, so people remember the face more than the name. If someone saw Rubina Ashraf in many dramas, images might overlap in their memory with similar images from ads.
Nostalgia & imagination: Over time, people tend to fill gaps in memory. If someone remembers a beautiful commercial, they may later attribute it to famous names they know like Beo or Rubina simply because those names come up when recalling media from that time.
Interviews & retellings: Sometimes people do interviews or social media posts recalling “I think Beo was in that old Ponds ad,” which spreads the idea even without firm evidence.

What the Evidence Tells Us

Based on what archival and recent sources show:

Beo Raana Zafar’s documented past (in published biographies, interviews) does not include a mention of a Ponds Lemon Cream ad. (EverybodyWiki)
The Rubinas (Ashraf, Arif) have done commercials and modeling, but I found no documentation that links them to that specific Ponds Lemon Cream ad in conjunction with Beo. (Wikipedia)
Searching Indian film history for “Ponds TV Commercials” comes up with other names (models, movie actors) but not Beo or Rubina in that specific role. (Indian Film History)

Possible Scenarios

Since direct evidence is missing, some possible scenarios are:

Perhaps Beo was not in that particular Ponds Lemon Cream ad, but people think she was because of her prominence later and because her look or voice reminds them of someone in that ad.
Maybe Rubina was in it, but not Rubina Ashraf or Rubina Arif—it could be a lesser‐known Rubina, Indian or Pakistani, whose credits weren’t well‐documented.
The commercial remembered could be one with similar product (a cream with lemon scent, etc.), but not exactly “Ponds Lemon Cream,” or the brand was misremembered.

Cultural Importance of Such Ads in the 1990s

Whether or not this exact ad occurred, commercials like Ponds in the 90s played a big role in shaping beauty standards, advertising styles, and media culture in Pakistan.

Limited channels & high repetition: With fewer TV channels and limited airtimes, viewers saw the same ads many times. That repetition causes deep memory imprint.
Local vs imported aesthetic: These ads often tried to balance between Western‐style advertising (bright skin, glowing face) and local cultural expectations (modesty, elegance).
Actors crossing over: Many actors who became famous in dramas also did commercials, especially early in their careers. That added to the blending of memories of faces and names.
Role of jingles and slogans: A catchy line or song in ads lingered, sometimes more than the visuals. Many people remember the slogan or tune but forget the cast.

What We Can Learn from Searching

When wanting to verify something like “Beo Raana Zafar & Rubina in a 90s Ponds ad”, it's helpful to check archival PTV catalogs, old magazines that did TV ad reviews, or interviews of the actors discussing their early work.
Oral histories (people’s memories, forum discussions) can help, but they must be cross‐checked.
Sometimes production houses or the advertising agency’s records can confirm who did what, but those are often private.

Conclusion: Memory & Myth vs Verified Facts

So, does the Ponds Lemon Cream commercial with Beo Raana Zafar and an actress “Rubina” exist as remembered? Based on my research:

There is no verifiable source confirming that commercial featuring both those names together.
Beo Raana Zafar’s known credits do not list that ad; Rubina Ashraf and Rubina Arif are documented actresses but similarly have no record confirming that specific ad.
It’s very possible that the commercial did exist, perhaps with lesser‐known actors, but over time memory has assigned names we recognize to parts we vaguely remember.

If you like, I could try to dig up old PTV schedules, ask newspaper archives (if accessible), or ad agency memories to see if we can find that commercial. Would you prefer I do that and update the article accordingly?

Thursday, October 2, 2025

🔍 What I Found Out

Hey! That’s a really cool topic — Maria Wasti and Jana Malik are big names in Pakistani showbiz, and writing about their work in a Medi Paste toothpaste commercial from the 2000s is a great idea. However, after doing a detailed search, I couldn’t find any credible source confirming that Maria Wasti and Jana Malik both worked in a “Medi Paste” toothpaste commercial together in the 2000s. I found plenty of info about each actress separately, but nothing that ties them definitively to a Medi Paste ad together.

🔍 What I Found Out

Here’s a breakdown of what is known about the two actresses, what might have similarities to what you're asking, and why I couldn’t verify the specific claim.

Who They Are

Maria Wasti
- Born in 1980. (Wikipedia)
- Started her career in dramas in the 1990s. (Wikipedia)
- Known for strong dramatic roles, and over the years she has earned a reputation for depth in her performances. (Wikipedia)
Jana Malik
- Born around 1984 according to some sources. (Pakpedia)
- Started in showbiz very young (about 13). (MediaSpring)
- Has done dramas, modeling, commercials, etc. (Style.Pk)

What I Couldn’t Verify

I didn’t find any established article, interview, archive, or commercial clip confirming a Medi Paste commercial featuring both Maria Wasti and Jana Malik together.
There are mentions of both doing commercials in their careers, but none matched “Medi Paste” in a way I could confirm. Commercials often aren’t well documented, especially older ones, so absence of evidence isn’t proof, but it's my responsibility to point out it’s unconfirmed.

⚠️ Why It’s Hard to Find Proof

Old commercials (2000s era) in Pakistan often didn’t have strong digital documentation. Many weren’t archived online or have been lost.
Brands sometimes change names, or commercials are rebranded, and memory (or hearsay) might mix up details.
Media sources and fan-run wikis sometimes have inaccuracies or incomplete details.

✅ What We Can Do

Since I can’t confirm the claim, if you like, I can help by doing one of the following:

Deep-dive archival search — try to explore media archives, old TV/radio ad libraries, maybe interview snippets, to see if the claim holds.
Write a speculative or hypothetical article — framing it as “It’s said that…” or “if Maria Wasti & Jana Malik did such an ad…” and exploring what that would mean, what their roles might have been, etc.
Write a confirmed biography-style piece about Maria Wasti and Jana Malik’s careers, how commercials played a role in their trajectories, remembering ads like Medi Paste if they exist, etc.

If you want, I can start on a more detailed piece with what is known, and indicate where the uncertainties are. Do you want me to go ahead with that?

What is Johar Joshanda / Qarshi Johar Joshanda

I tried to research whether Jahan Ara and Jana Malik appeared together in a Qarshi Johar Joshanda commercial in 1999, but I couldn’t find credible evidence to confirm that claim. Much of the information about Johar Joshanda, Jana Malik, and Jahan Ara either doesn’t mention that commercial or appears in sources that are unclear or contradictory.

Below, I’ll outline what I did find: what is known about Johar Joshanda, Jana Malik, common confusions, and thoughts on why this particular claim might be tricky to verify. If you like, I can also try digging into old archives, newspapers, or broadcast records to see if something surfaces.

What is Johar Joshanda / Qarshi Johar Joshanda

Qarshi Johar Joshanda is a well-known herbal remedy product in Pakistan. It is used for relief from cough, cold, throat irritation, flu etc. (Al-Shifa)
It has been marketed in different forms—regular, sugar-free, honey flavour, etc. (halalmart.co.za)
In 2008, Time magazine featured Johar Joshanda, calling it “the national common denominator” for cold / flu relief in Pakistan, noting its effect and acceptability. (Business Recorder)

Jana Malik

Jana Malik is a Pakistani actress known primarily for television roles. She started her acting career young and has appeared in many dramas.
There are many commercials / TVCs she has done, but I did not find any reliable source confirming she was in a Johar Joshanda commercial in 1999.

Jahan Ara

The name “Jahan Ara” is more ambiguous. It could refer to multiple figures (actresses, public figures, etc.).
I did not find credible documentation that a specific “Jahan Ara” appeared with Jana Malik in the Johar Joshanda commercial of 1999, in the sources I searched.

Common Information & Confusions

Dates: The claim says “1999”. Many ads and TV commercials are not well archived, especially from that period in Pakistan. Official records are often missing or not digitized.
Attribution: Sometimes people attribute older TV ads to famous actors/actresses, even when those stars were not involved (or only partially involved), due to “remembered associations”. Memory can blur.
Availability of sources: I looked through product sites, brand history, media / advertising academic papers, etc., but didn’t find mention of this specific commercial cast combination.

What I didn’t find

No verified source saying Jana Malik and Jahan Ara acted together in a 1999 Johar Joshanda commercial.
No digital/video archive I found confirms the commercial from 1999 with that cast.
The academic article “Gendered Bodies in Pakistani Commercial Advertisements” mentions some Johar Joshanda advertisements, but not that one with those names together. (file-thesis.pide.org.pk)

Why it’s Hard to Confirm

Lack of archives: Many old television commercials are not preserved or catalogued properly. Pre-2000s Pakistani commercial TV material is especially poorly archived.
Ambiguous names: “Jahan Ara” could refer to someone whose name is slightly different, or spelled differently; perhaps not widely known, making tracing harder.
Memory / folklore: Over time, people remember that “so-and-so famous actress was in the Johar Joshanda ad”, when in fact it was a less known actor, or used voice-overs, or another model.

Tentative Conclusion

As things stand, with publicly accessible sources, I cannot confirm the claim that Jahan Ara and Jana Malik worked in a Johar Joshanda (Qarshi) commercial in 1999. It’s possible it’s true, but I couldn’t find enough evidence to write it down as a fact.

If you want, I can try to:

Search in archives of Pakistani magazines / newspapers from 1998-2000.
Check old broadcast schedules / TV station archives.
Look for interviews of Jana Malik or people in advertising from that era, to see if they mention it.

Do you want me to continue that deep archival search? And if yes, would you prefer the article take a more speculative / memory-based style (not fully confirmed), or only contain fully verified information?

What Is Peals Soap & Its Advertising History in Pakistan

Hey there! I did a fair bit of digging, but I couldn’t find any credible source confirming that Iffat Omar (aka Iffat Rahim) actually starred in a Peals Soap commercial in 1994. Because of that, this article will explore a few different angles: what is known about Iffat Omar’s career in that period, what kinds of advertising were happening in Pakistan in the early ’90s, why this “Peals Soap ’94 ad” claim might have stuck, and what it would mean if she had done it. If you want, I can also try to track down archival footage or interviews to either prove or debunk it more definitively.

Who Is Iffat Omar / Iffat Rahim?

Before we jump into the Peals Soap thing, it helps to understand who she is, what her career looked like, and what she was up to in the early 1990s.

Name: Iffat Rahim, popularly known now as Iffat Omar after marriage. (Wikipedia)
Origins & Early Career: She started modeling and acting in the late 1980s, and became known both as a model and a TV actress. (Wikipedia)
Acting & Modelling Work: She has a large body of work in television dramas throughout the ’90s and beyond. Some drama credits from that era include Nangay Paon (1993), Uraan (1995), etc. (Wikipedia)
Advertisements & Campaigns: She has done ad campaigns; she has spoken in interviews about her highest pay cheque involved with an ad campaign, though she did not specifically name that campaign as Peals Soap or pin down the year in public sources. (Reviewit.pk)

So it is plausible she would have done commercials early in her modelling/acting career, given that many models in Pakistan do ads. But so far, nothing solid to link her to Peals in 1994 that I could find in credible records.

What Is Peals Soap & Its Advertising History in Pakistan

To understand the claim, it's helpful to look at Peals Soap as a brand and what adverts were like in Pakistan back then.

Peals Soap is (or was) a popular soap brand in Pakistan. Many local soap brands (and international ones) used television advertising heavily, especially in the late ’80s / early ’90s.
Advertising in that era was simpler, more localized (fewer special effects, more focus on household settings, straightforward messaging). Usually, there’d be a model or actress demonstrating the soap, showing its benefits (fragrance, cleaning ability, skin smoothness, etc.), often with catchy slogans.

Given that context, it is not unlikely that a rising model like Iffat could be roped in to do a soap commercial.

Examining the Claim: Did Iffat Omar “Work It In Peals Soap Commercial In 1994”?

Here are a few considerations:

No Confirmation in Major Sources
I could not find any article, interview, photograph, video clip or official source that specifically states: “Iffat Omar starred in the Peals Soap commercial in 1994.”
Her Modelling Phase & Earnings
From what she’s said in interviews, she started modelling in her teenage years and was active in commercials and campaigns before shifting more toward acting. She has mentioned ad campaigns as being part of her early earnings. But she has not, in the sources I found, named Peals or provided dates that coincide with 1994 in that specific way. (Reviewit.pk)
Possibility of Memory or Misattribution
It's possible that the memory (by fans, or on social media) conflated her doing a soap advertisement at some point with Peals, or misremembered the date. Over time, people mix up brand names, years, models, etc.
Archival Limitations
One big issue is that many old commercials from the ’90s were not archived or digitized. Sometimes TV recordings were lost, destroyed, or simply not preserved. So even if she did do that commercial, there might be little to no surviving public evidence.

Why the Story Persists

Why do people believe this claim? A few reasons:

Her Strong Modelling Profile: Because Iffat was prominent as a model early in her career, people assume she must have done the big soap ads (soap ads are among the more memorable and wide-reaching campaigns).
Oral History & Fan Memory: Fans, older viewers, and word-of-mouth can amplify or distort things over time. Someone remembers seeing Iffat in a soap ad, possibly Peals, and someone else repeats it, and so on.
Ad Campaigns of the Era: Soap ads were common. It’s a genre people remember. So when thinking back to favourite ads, people may attribute the ad to Peals or to Iffat even if it was for another brand or another model.

What It Would Mean If She Did Star in the Peals Soap Commercial

Assuming the claim were true, what would that look like in terms of significance, both for her career and in advertising / cultural context?

Boost to Modelling & Popular Appeal: A major soap commercial with wide airtime could have solidified her public visibility, helping her shift more strongly into dramas or other media.
Financial Reward: Ads for household staples tend to pay well (especially if aired frequently), so it could have been a meaningful income source.
Brand Association: Being associated with a trusted, everyday product like soap gives a certain type of public image: familiar, accessible, trustworthy. Often helpful for actresses transitioning to broader media.

How To Verify If It Really Happened

If you want to try to confirm or refute the claim, here are some strategies:

Old TV Archives: Contact TV stations that existed in 1994 (e.g. PTV) to see if they have recorded commercials, especially Peals’ adverts.
Brand Archives: Peals / the parent company may have archives or marketing records. Sometimes brands keep old ad reels, scripts, or contracts.
Interviews with Iffat Omar: She may have been asked about it in interviews. Searching Urdu-language sources or older print media might reveal mention.
Old Magazines / Print Media: Advertisements in magazines from the early ’90s were often printed; someone might find the Peals ad print campaign with Iffat’s photo.

Conclusion

So, where does that leave us?

There is no solid evidence (that I could find) confirming that Iffat Omar specifically appeared in a Peals Soap commercial in 1994.
The idea is plausible, given her modelling background and the practice of soap advertising in Pakistan, and the fact she has done ad campaigns in her early years.
But unless archival proof surfaces, the claim remains unverified — possibly a mix of memory, assumption, and lore.

If you want, I can try and look Urdu newspapers or magazines from that era (1993–1995) and see if there’s any mention of the ad. Would you like me to try that, so we can perhaps write something more definitive?

Aijaz Aslam & Iraj Manzoor: The Rumored LG AC Commercial in the 2000s

Hey there! I tried digging up info about Aijaz Aslam, Iraj Manzoor, and that LG AC commercial from the 2000s—but honestly, I couldn’t verify or find credible sources confirming the story exactly as you described. It seems this might be based on memory, rumor, or perhaps local lore that hasn’t been documented well online. Still, what I can do is write an article around what is known, explore possible connections, discuss why such commercials are important in celebrity branding, and maybe piece together how this anecdote fits into the broader context. It’ll be a mixture of fact, likely hypotheses, and reflections. If you find additional sources, I can revise to include them too. Let me know how you want to proceed!

Aijaz Aslam & Iraj Manzoor: The Rumored LG AC Commercial in the 2000s

Who Are Aijaz Aslam & Iraj Manzoor?

Aijaz Aslam is a household name in Pakistan’s entertainment, fashion, and media industry. He started as a model, moved into acting, producing, worked in fashion design, and launched businesses. He’s known not just for his roles in drama serials but also for his keen sense of branding and fashion. (For example, he’s also an entrepreneur behind fragrance lines and clothing ventures.)

Iraj Manzoor (Iraj Manzoor/Manzoor?) is less widely documented in mass media sources, or at least the available information online is sparse. There are people named Manzoor in Pakistani media (and “Iraj” might be spelled differently, or perhaps it’s someone who worked behind the scenes).

So, when someone claims that Aijaz Aslam and Iraj Manzoor worked together in an LG air conditioner commercial in the 2000s, it's plausible—since celebrities often do commercials—and sounds like something that might be remembered more through word of mouth or personal memory than through formal archives.

The LG AC Commercial: What We Know / What We Don’t

What we don’t have: I couldn’t find corroborating articles, interviews, video footage, or credible archival sources confirming that commercial with both names. No official records or mentions in well-sourced media outlets bring up “Aijaz Aslam + Iraj Manzoor + LG AC” specifically.
What might be plausible:
- Aijaz Aslam did many advertising gigs in his early years (models often do). LG is a big electronics / AC brand, so hiring famous faces would make sense.
- Sometimes local TV commercials had less documentation, especially in the pre-YouTube era, so even if it existed, clips may not be online or easily traceable.
- Names may have variations (spelling, pronunciation), so "Iraj Manzoor" might have alternate spellings or could be someone who worked off-camera (director, creative, voice over) or in support.

Why Such Commercials Matter

Even if we can’t fully verify this particular commercial, commercials like these play several roles:

Brand Endorsement & Celebrity Image
Being in an ad for a brand like LG helps cement an actor’s or celebrity’s visibility. It associates them with quality, modern tech, trust, etc. For Aijaz Aslam, endorsements probably helped elevate him beyond acting into wider public recognition.
Monetary Support & Diversification
Endorsements often pay well, and they allow celebrities to diversify income beyond acting/drama roles. Especially in early or mid-career, ads are helpful.
Cultural & Nostalgic Value
Decade-wise, ads from the 2000s carry nostalgia—style, music, tone, visuals—so people remember them fondly. Even without full documentation, they live in collective memory.
Marketing Strategy for Brands
For big brands like LG, using celebrities was (and still is) a strategy to build credibility, recall, and attract customers. The choice of actor, the storytelling, the visuals: all shape consumer perception.

Hypothesised Features of the Commercial (Based on Typical 2000s Ads)

Since we don’t have the exact script or visuals, we can think about what a 2000s AC commercial in Pakistan would likely include:

A fresh, cool aesthetic: visuals of comfort, maybe someone entering a home from heat outdoors.
Scenes contrasting “before AC / after AC” or discomfort vs. relief.
A celebrity (like Aijaz Aslam) maybe showing trust, using the remote, maybe the AC unit.
Tagline emphasising cooling power, energy efficiency, or “latest technology.”
Music: catchy jingles or background score characteristic of that era (slower transitions compared to today’s fast edits).
Maybe voice‐over (male or female), possibly in Urdu or mixed Urdu/English.

If Iraj Manzoor was involved, maybe as co-star, or doing voice over, or directing, etc.

Search Attempts & Gaps

I did a search through available online sources and didn’t find:

Written articles or interviews where Aijaz Aslam explicitly mentions doing that LG AC commercial with Iraj Manzoor.
Video evidence (on YouTube, etc.) under keywords like “Aijaz Aslam LG AC commercial.”
Media archives listing Iraj Manzoor as actor or crew in association with LG commercials.

The gaps may be due to:

Lack of archiving of commercial videos from that time.
Using different names/spellings.
Commercials being local/regional and not reaching a national digital footprint.
The possibility that Iraj Manzoor was behind the scenes rather than on-camera.

Possible Sources / How to Confirm

If one wanted to try to confirm the story, here are potential routes:

Talk to Aijaz Aslam: He or his team might archive his past ad work (agencies sometimes keep portfolios).
TV / Advertising Agencies: The agency that made the LG commercial (if known) might have records, production credits.
LG or distributor archives: Sometimes brands keep their ad campaign records.
Old TV broadcast archives or private archives (maybe someone recorded the commercial).
Fans / community forums: Nostalgic pages or forums about TV ads in 2000s Pakistan might have discussions, old recordings, or anecdotes.

Why This Kind of Anecdote Circulates & Why People Care

This kind of claim—“remember that old ad?”—matters because:

It ties celebrities to collective memories: many people remember certain ads vividly.
It reflects how celebrity culture blends with everyday life (we see an AC ad, we remember the face, the voice, the music).
It shows how personal and cultural histories intermingle with commercial media.

Also, when media documentation is weak, people fill in the gaps with memory, stories, and oral confirmation. That’s how myths or half-remembered facts spread (but sometimes they turn out true).

What If the Claim Were True: Implications

If indeed Aijaz Aslam and Iraj Manzoor worked together on an LG AC commercial, then:

It would add to Aijaz Aslam’s portfolio of commercial endorsements, underlining his long career and how early he may have diversified.
For Iraj Manzoor, it would mean he had a visible role (on-screen or off-screen) with a major brand—a boost to his recognition.
It would contribute to understanding the evolution of advertising in Pakistan: styles, use of celebrities, marketing techniques in consumer electronics in 2000s.

Conclusion

So, to wrap up:

There’s no strong public record confirming that Aijaz Aslam and Iraj Manzoor together did an LG AC commercial in the 2000s—at least not one I can find reliably.
But it is plausible, given Aijaz’s history of commercials, LG’s practices, and the general advertising environment of that era.
The story is interesting: it tells us about memory, celebrity, advertising, and cultural history.

If you like, I can try to dig deeper: maybe search through old TV ad archives, speak to people in the ad industry, check social media nostalgia pages, etc. Do you want me to attempt that and see if I can find more concrete evidence or maybe track down a video?

The Landscape of Pakistani Advertising and Shaving Cream in the 1990s

Hey — this is a fascinating memory-gap kind of topic. I tried digging up info about Aijaz Aslam in the “Touchme Natural Shaving Cream” commercial from the 1990s, but couldn't find reliable sources confirming its existence, details, or showing that Aijaz Aslam specifically did that ad. What I did find instead are many references to his later work, his modeling/acting career, and his ventures into skincare and grooming. So this article will be partly speculative, reconstructing based on what is known about Aijaz Aslam, what was typical in Pakistani advertising in the 1990s, and how such a commercial would (or might) have worked, but not a factual chronicle of the ad itself because the evidence is thin.

If you want, I can also try to locate archival video or magazine evidence to verify or correct some of these speculations. But here is an article imagining and analyzing how “Aijaz Aslam Worked It in the Touchme Natural Shaving Cream Commercial in the 1990s,” mixing what is known + what seems plausible — in a conversational tone, with SEO-friendly headings.

Who Is Aijaz Aslam? A Walk Down Memory Lane

Aijaz Aslam (often stylized “Aijazz”) is a name many Pakistanis of certain generations will instantly recognize. Actor, model, entrepreneur — his career spans decades. (Social Diary Magazine)

He began in the early 1990s, doing modeling and small screen roles. (Social Diary Magazine)
Over time, he built a reputation not just for acting, but also for style and grooming. His physical appearance and sense of fashion became part of his “brand.” (profilepk.com)
More recently (as of 2020), he expanded into the skincare and grooming business, launching organic / herbal product lines under his name. (Images)

So in context, if he had done a commercial in the 1990s for something like Touchme Natural Shaving Cream, it would have fit well with where he was then — image, grooming, presence, early-90s style advertising.

The Landscape of Pakistani Advertising and Shaving Cream in the 1990s

To understand how such a commercial might have been crafted (or was likely crafted), we need to recall how advertising in Pakistan in the 90s worked, especially for grooming products:

TV commercials (Doordarshan-like / PTV + private networks as they started) were more formal in style than many of today’s. Lots of close-ups, slower pacing, clear voice-overs.
Male grooming products like shaving creams, after-shave lotions, etc., were less flashy than for women’s cosmetics, but they emphasized “smooth shave,” “no irritation,” “cool, refreshing scent” etc.
The visuals often included men getting ready: shaving lather on face, the razor, maybe a splash of water, facial close-ups, then the final “clean, confident male face.” Style of clothes often neat, classic.

Given Aijaz Aslam’s modeling background, such commercials often used him (or someone like him) as the aspirational male: well-groomed, confident, with ideal lighting and grooming.

Imagining the “Touchme Natural Shaving Cream” Commercial Featuring Aijaz Aslam

Since I didn't find concrete archival proof, here’s a reconstructed picture of how the commercial might have looked, why it might have been powerful, and how Aijaz might have “worked it”.

Visuals & Aesthetic

Opening shot: A close-up of the shaving cream tube labeled “Touchme Natural Shaving Cream,” likely on a bathroom sink counter, maybe next to a mirror. Light, clean bathroom setting.
Aijaz Aslam enters the frame: fresh face, maybe shirt collar open, natural light or soft studio lighting. He picks up the cream, applies a small amount into his palm or directly onto his face, lather begins.
Focus on texture: the lather is creamy, maybe meant to look natural, maybe with a green tint or some herb-leaf imagery to emphasize “natural.”
Shaving scene: Aijaz uses a razor, shaving, then rinses, towel-dries his face. Close-up of his skin: smooth, no irritation. He looks in the mirror, nods, smiles — satisfied.

The Message / Tagline

Tagline could be something like: “Touchme Natural — Smooth, Gentle, Confident” or “The natural way to shave, for the real you.”
The voice-over would emphasize “natural ingredients,” perhaps “no harsh chemicals,” “soothing for skin,” “cool fragrance,” etc.
Possibly a small slogan like “Because your skin deserves the tender touch” or “Feel naturally confident every morning.”

How Aijaz Aslam “Worked It”

What I mean by “worked it” here:

Charisma & Presence: Even then, his modeling background meant he knew how to carry confidence with grooming. Clean cut, well-styled hair, well trimmed, posture, expression.
Facial expressions: Perhaps glancing in mirror, approving look, slight smile. Cup of water splash, letting water run, maybe a shot of wiping stubble, then close-ups of texture.
Voice / demeanor: If he spoke (in the ad) or even if voice-over, the tone would have been confident, reassuring. Natural, but aspirational.

Why Such a Commercial Could Be Memorable in the ’90s

Assuming it existed, here are reasons it might have stuck in people’s memories:

Emergence of localized grooming ads — it was a time when men’s personal care in Pakistan was growing; grooming products started being marketed more as lifestyle, not just utility.
Use of a well-recognizable face like Aijaz Aslam would lend credibility, desirability.
A sensory appeal: The visuals of shaving foam, smooth skin, clean bathroom, fragrant cream — things you don’t forget if done well.
“Natural” message: Even then, “natural” or “herbal” was a differentiator. If Touchme Natural used that in its marketing, people would remember it more, because most shaving creams didn’t highlight being natural/herbal (or less harsh) so much.
Repetition: Regular TV slots (morning grooming shows, breaks in prime time) would help imprint.

Why There’s Uncertainty About This Specific Ad

While many people remember “Touchme” or grooming ads, when I checked:

There are no solid archival references confirming an ad with him for Touchme Natural Shaving Cream in the 1990s (TV archives, magazine archives, credible interviews) — at least not ones I could find.
All modern sources talk about his recent skincare/grooming product line (2020s) — organic, herbal etc. (Images)
There are mentions of his early modeling work, and that he was in advertisements broadly, but I didn’t find that specific cooking up of “Touchme Natural Shaving Cream” with him.

So it’s possible either the ad is real but under-documented, or it's a conflation in memory (people remembering a shaving cream commercial with him but mis-attributing brand, or remembering brand but not actor, etc.).

What We Do Know: Aijaz Aslam’s Grooming & Skincare Connection

To situate why the idea of such a commercial makes sense, let’s look at what is definitely known:

Aijaz has launched a natural / herbal skincare line under his name, with grooming products etc. He’s highlighted herbal extracts, avoiding harsh chemicals. (Images)
He has always taken care of his appearance, modeling, fashion design, etc. He had clothing ventures, brand identity in “Aijazz” etc. (profilepk.com)
In interviews, he emphasizes “locally made top quality products” for grooming and skincare, which implies awareness of the grooming product market in Pakistan and its potential. (somethinghaute.com)

So, even if the specific “Touchme Natural Shaving Cream” commercial is not documented (or I couldn’t locate documentation), the idea is not out of character for him.

SEO-Friendly Reflections / Takeaways

Given this topic (whether the ad existed or not), here’s what someone searching for this could find helpful — and what makes this topic SEO-friendly.

Possible User Search Queries

Aijaz Aslam Touchme Shaving Cream Advert
Did Aijaz Aslam do a commercial for Touchme Shaving Cream?
1990s Pakistani shaving cream commercials
Touchme Natural Shaving Cream ad history

Keywords to Use / Target

Aijaz Aslam
Touchme Natural Shaving Cream
1990s commercial Pakistan
Male grooming ads in Pakistan
Natural shaving cream commercial

Why Topic Has Interest

Nostalgia: people like remembering old ads, especially when a public figure is involved.
Branding history: grooming / skincare brand marketers might want to trace how natural / herbal branding evolved.
Celebrity effect: how actors/models like Aijaz helped shape grooming habits.

Conclusion: The Likely Truth & How to Verify

To wrap up, here’s what I think is most plausible:

There could have been a shaving cream ad in the 1990s with Aijaz Aslam — perhaps for Touchme or similar brand — but there’s no strong public record of “Touchme Natural Shaving Cream” with him that I found.
Memory over decades can blur brand names, exact product descriptors (e.g. “natural,” “herbal,” “smoothing,” etc.), and the actor identity.
Aijaz’s later entry into skincare & grooming (with a focus on natural, herbal products) makes people more likely to assume he was always in such ads, even if there is no concrete proof.

If you like, I can try to access archive newspapers, old PTV ad catalogues, or magazine scans, to see if I can find evidence (like a still image or listing) of that commercial. Would you prefer I do that?

Wednesday, October 1, 2025

# Why the “Clinic Plus Shampoo (1988)” Commercial Isn’t (Easily) on YouTube: A Deep Dive

Here’s a conversational-tone, SEO-friendly article about the mystery of the “Clinic Plus Shampoo (1988) commercial not being available on YouTube.” If you want tweaks (tone, length, more advertiser/marketing detail, etc.), just say the word.

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# Why the “Clinic Plus Shampoo (1988)” Commercial Isn’t (Easily) on YouTube: A Deep Dive

If you’ve ever tried searching for the **Clinic Plus shampoo commercial from 1988** on YouTube and come up empty-handed—or found only partial clips—you’re not alone. This missing ad has become something of a nostalgic myth in marketing and advertising circles. Let’s explore why it’s so elusive, what we *do* know about Clinic Plus’s early advertising, and what this says about archival media, copyrights, and brand legacies.

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## The Allure of a Lost Commercial

Why does this particular ad stir curiosity? Several reasons:

1. **Nostalgia factor**: If you grew up in India (or in regions where Clinic Plus was popular), early shampoo ads are part of childhood memories — jingles, visuals, the mother-daughter angle, etc.

2. **Brand legacy**: Clinic Plus has been a ubiquitous hair-care brand for decades. As one of the “first shampoos” many people used, any early marketing becomes part of cultural memory.

3. **Absence = intrigue**: When you search for “Clinic Plus 1988 commercial” on YouTube, you’ll mostly find newer campaigns or unrelated videos. The absence of this one ad creates a kind of “holy grail” status in vintage advertisement archiving.

4. **Media decay & copyright**: Old television ads often weren’t preserved digitally or properly archived. Over time, physical tapes degrade, and rights issues may prevent uploads or re-uploads.

So this scarcity makes people ask: Did it ever exist? If yes, why can’t we see it now? Let’s trace what we *do* know.

---

## What We Know About Clinic Plus and Its Early Campaigns

To understand the context, it helps to look at the brand history, its marketing approach, and how ads evolved over time.

### Origins and Brand Positioning

* **Clinic Plus** is a hair care brand under **Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL)**. ([Wikipedia][1])

* In India, Clinic Plus is said to penetrate **86% of households annually** (as of recent data). ([Unilever][2])

* It emphasizes the **mother-daughter bond**: the idea that mothers help “raise their daughters strong,” just like the brand helps hair grow strong. ([Unilever][2])

* Marketing documents and student projects note that Clinic Plus was initially positioned as a cosmetic or “beauty shampoo,” later expanded into anti-dandruff and herbal variants. ([Scribd][3])

### When Did the Brand Start Advertising?

* Some sources claim **Clinic Plus Health shampoo** was launched in India around **1987**. ([UKEssays.com][4])

* The brand had even earlier roots (or sibling brands). One source states “Clinic was a shampoo launched in 1972,” and the “plus” version or variant was introduced later. ([O'Reilly Media][5])

* In case studies, Clinic Plus is said to have been launched as a variant of “Clinic Special,” extending an existing line into the family shampoo market. ([icmrindia.org][6])

* Ads from later years reveal the brand’s typical motif of **mothers and daughters**, emotional messaging, and long-hair promises. ([afaqs!][7])

So, an ad labeled “1988 Clinic Plus commercial” is plausible, given the brand was active in that timeframe. But we don’t have a confirmed archival copy.

---

## Why It’s So Hard to Find the 1988 Ad

Here are some of the likely reasons:

### 1. **Poor Archival Culture in the 1980s**

Back in the 1980s, television ads were stored on analog tapes, not digital formats. Many networks and brands did not keep good long-term archives. Tapes degrade, vanish, or get recycled. So even if the ad aired, it may never have been digitized or preserved for posterity.

### 2. **Copyright & Licensing Restrictions**

Even if someone possesses a digital or digitized version of the ad, uploading it to YouTube might violate copyright. Brands often control their old content, and if rights are unclear (e.g. ad agency, broadcaster, or the brand), uploads may be blocked, removed, or never permitted.

### 3. **Lack of Fan Uploads / Demand**

Classic ad collectors sometimes upload regional vintage commercials, but it takes time, effort, and interest. If the 1988 Clinic Plus ad wasn’t widely known or shared among collector communities, it may never have gotten digitized and uploaded.

### 4. **Brand Rebranding / Rights Transitions**

Over time, brands evolve, rebrand, or change their corporate structure. In the process, old media can get lost, de-prioritized, or legally encumbered by transitions (e.g., agency changes, archival ownership). So even the brand holder might not have easy access to it now.

### 5. **Fragmented Clips, Not Full Commercials**

You may find **parts** or **clips** from early Clinic Plus campaigns, maybe in compilations or nostalgic “throwback ads” reels. But these could be edited, incomplete, or misattributed. (Indeed, many searches only show much newer campaigns or generalized “Clinic Plus ads.”)

In fact, when looking on YouTube, the main “Clinic Plus” official channel features newer campaigns like “Invincible,” but none dated back to 1988. ([YouTube][8]) There *is* a Clinic Plus shampoo TV commercial posted (but likely newer) with the link: *“Clinic Plus Shampoo TV Commercial Ad”* ([YouTube][9]) That doesn’t necessarily represent the 1988 version.

---

## Existing Ads & Campaigns You *Can* Find

Though the 1988 version is missing (as far as we know), there are known ads and campaigns you *can* locate, which help sketch the brand’s advertising evolution:

* **Clinic Plus India YouTube channel** has campaigns like “Invincible” (recent) and others. ([YouTube][8])

* “Clinic Plus Salutes all Mothers Raising Strong Daughters” is a popular video with tens of millions of views. ([YouTube][10])

* The “Tum Strong Ho” campaign is another recent ad emphasizing empowerment. ([YouTube][11])

* While not from 1988, there is a TV commercial posted as “Clinic Plus Shampoo TV Commercial Ad” which might reflect later decades’ branding style. ([YouTube][9])

* The “Chulbuli” campaign (animation and children-centric messaging) was used as part of the brand’s promotional tactics. ([Pratham Books][12])

These later ads reflect themes that possibly trace back to earlier campaigns: mother-daughter relationships, hair strength, emotional messaging.

---

## Reconstructing What a 1988 Clin ic Plus Ad *Might* Have Looked Like

Given what we know of Clinic Plus’s brand identity and early advertising style, here’s an informed guess:

* **Visuals** would likely be simple: a mother and daughter duo, perhaps in rural or semi-urban settings (to resonate with mass consumer base).

* **Tagline or messaging** about strong long hair, nourishment, trust in mother’s care.

* **Imagery of shampoo application**, hair wash, wet hair, shine.

* **Jingle or slogan**, likely in Hindi or local regional language.

* **Medium**: aired on Doordarshan or regional TV channels, typical 30 seconds.

* A framing that emphasizes the *emotional bond* and *care* motif — something like “As a mother cares, Clinic Plus cares for hair.”

That motif would align with later ads and brand messaging (especially the strong mother-daughter narrative). ([afaqs!][7])

Without an actual video to analyze, though, all this remains speculative.

---

## Why the Missing Ad Still Matters

You might ask: “Why put so much effort into hunting down a 1988 shampoo ad?” But it’s about more than nostalgia. It ties into:

* **Cultural memory**: Old advertisements reflect social norms, beauty ideals, language, costume, gender roles of their time.

* **Brand evolution**: Seeing how a brand’s messaging changed over decades is instructive for marketers, historians, and media scholars.

* **Archival gaps**: The absence is itself a lesson in how fragile media preservation was (and often still is) in many countries.

* **Copyright & digital scarcity**: In many cases, content exists somewhere but never reaches public digital platforms due to legal or logistical constraints.

So while the 1988 ad might seem trivial, its elusiveness spotlights deeper themes in media history.

---

## Tips If You Want to Try to Find It Yourself

If you’re curious and want to dig more, here are some strategies you might try:

1. **Contact HUL / Clinic Plus brand team**

They may have archival footage or can direct you to their archives or marketing department.

2. **Search broadcast archives**

National archives, Doordarshan (if in India), regional TV stations might have reel libraries or tape vaults.

3. **Explore ad agency archives**

If you can find which ad agency produced the early campaigns, their archives might survive.

4. **Look in old trade magazines**

Journals or publications from the 1980s may have stills, script excerpts, or ad industry coverage.

5. **Ad collector communities**

Antique / vintage advertisement forums, retro TV ad YouTube channels, media historians might have leads or rare tapes.

6. **University or library special collections**

Some institutions with media departments maintain collections of old commercials, jingles, film reels.

Even if you don’t find the full video, you might find fragments, screenshots, or script summaries.

---

## SEO-friendly Headings to Remember

* **Why the 1988 Clinic Plus Commercial Is Missing**

* **Clinic Plus: Early Marketing & Brand Position**

* **Known Clinic Plus Ads You Can Actually Watch**

* **Speculating the Style of the Lost 1988 Ad**

* **What the Absence Reveals About Media Archives**

* **Where to Search for Old TV Commercials Like This**

---

## Final Thoughts

The missing **Clinic Plus Shampoo (1988) commercial** isn’t just a weird internet gap—it’s a window into how fragile media from past decades can be, especially in regions where archiving was not prioritized. While we can’t confirm that specific version exists online today, the brand’s history, later ad styles, and marketing philosophy help us imagine what it may have looked like.

If you like, I can try to help you search in Indian archival databases or see if a private collector has digitized it. Do you want me to dig further with archival links or media libraries?

[1]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindustan_Unilever?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Hindustan Unilever - Wikipedia"

[2]: https://www.hul.co.in/brands/beauty-wellbeing/clinic-plus/?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Clinic Plus - Hindustan Unilever Limited"

[3]: https://www.scribd.com/doc/84562177/Clinic-Plus-Shampoo?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Clinic Plus Shampoo | PDF | Brand | Business - Scribd"

[4]: https://www.ukessays.com/essays/marketing/history-about-the-clinic-all-clear-marketing-essay.php?utm_source=chatgpt.com "History About The Clinic All Clear Marketing Essay | UKEssays.com"

[5]: https://www.oreilly.com/library/view/advertising-brand-and/9789361599941/xhtml/chapter14.xhtml?utm_source=chatgpt.com "14. Clinic Plus - Advertising, Brand and Consumer Behaviour (The ..."

[6]: https://icmrindia.org/casestudies/catalogue/Marketing1/Unilever%20in%20India-Marketing%20Case%20Studies.htm?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Marketing Case Study | Unilever in India: Managing Brand Extensions"

[7]: https://www.afaqs.com/news/advertising/from-demonstrating-strong-lustrous-hair-to-celebrating-mother-daughter-bond?utm_source=chatgpt.com "From demonstrating strong, lustrous hair to celebrating mother ..."

[8]: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtGuYEXWdePJygUa7FPOYgw?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Clinic Plus India - YouTube"

[9]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4W3nfKpQ1bw&utm_source=chatgpt.com "Clinic Plus Shampoo TV Commercial Ad"

[10]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YhdQrvaSS-g&utm_source=chatgpt.com "Clinic Plus Salutes all Mothers Raising Strong Daughters ... - YouTube"

[11]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b4OCIMX-lPo&utm_source=chatgpt.com "Clinic Plus Tum Strong Ho - YouTube"

[12]: https://prathambooks.org/ad-campaign-chulbuli-promoting-hygiene/?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Ad-campaign 'Chulbuli' : Promoting Hygiene along with the Product"