Tabish Hashmi often gets in trouble for his jokes, as do most comedians. Recently, he’s been doing a special show on PSL for Geo, and some fans like how he speaks his mind.
But a video of the comedian is upsetting his fans.
In the video, Tabish asked Mariyam Nafees, his co-host, which PSL team she likes best. Mariyam said, “I like Peshawar Zalmi the most, then the other teams, and Karachi last because they don’t play well.” Tabish then said something very rude about Mariyam’s husband, which upset the audience. “Your husband is from Karachi. So, he too does not perform,” said Hashmi.
Say a word of thanks to the producers, writers and directors who decided to make dramas that were truly worth our while. They left us hooked, laughing and crying along with beloved characters.
Check out the best of Pakistani dramas from this year.
1. Jannat Se Aagay
Writer: Shah Yasir Director: Haseeb Hassan Channel: Geo Entertainment
Jannat Se Aagay digs into the complexities of identity and personal aspirations, focusing on Jannat and Tabassum, two young women from different backgrounds trying to discover themselves in a complicated world.
The drama stands out for its compelling storyline, unpredictable script, and engaging narrative. While not flawless for die-hard Umera Ahmed fans, it’s recommended for its entertainment value, script quality, and performances. The return of Umera Ahmed adds to the anticipation, making Jannat Se Aagay a noteworthy entry in the world of Pakistani dramas in 2023.
2. Shannas
Writer: Adarsh Ayaz Director: Yasra Rizvi Channel: Green Entertainment
Shanaas was a unique addition to our screens this year, featuring unconventional content. It follows Aneesa (Hajra Yamin), who discovers that she was adopted as a child. The drama unfolds as Aneesa navigates a journey to find her biological parents, encountering various characters tied to her past. Addressing adoption and class differences, the script, along with exceptional performances by Hajra Yamin, Sania Saeed, Shamim Hilaly, Yasra Rizvi, and others, handles the sensitive topics with care. An honest effort by the writer, director, and actors makes “Shanaas” a must-watch, delving into a sensitive subject in a thoughtful and tasteful manner.
3. Kabli Pulao
Writer: Zafar Mairaj Director: Kashif Nisar Channel: Green Entertainment
The sensational Kabli Pulao aired on Green Entertainment, immediately cementing itself as a contender for the best series of 2023, not only for its compelling narrative but also for the network, sparking anticipation for future content. An unlikely romance between Haji Mushtaq (Muhammad Ehteshamuddin) and Barbeena (Sabeena Farooq), an Afghan refugee widow, the drama delves into their unconventional love story, exploring the challenges of cross-cultural relationships. Ehteshamuddin’s portrayal captivates with depth, and Farooq’s acting keeps viewers eagerly anticipating each episode.
The drama’s commitment to shedding light on refugee struggles offers a refreshing departure from mainstream storytelling. A seamless blend of a compelling storyline and outstanding performances, “Kabli Pulao” stands out as one of the best stories of 2023.
4. Fairy Tale
Writer: Sarah Majeed Director: Ali Hasan Channel: HUM TV
Fairytale is the firm fan favourite on the list, the story of Umeed’s life—a happy, imperfect young girl with a modern perspective. Despite embracing typical romance tropes, the drama’s light approach resonated so well with young Pakistanis that a second season was created, deviating from the initial plan. Fairytale’s characters are immensely fun, and the chemistry between the heroine and the hero is what keeps the show alive.
5. Muhabbat Gumshuda Meri
Writer: Rahat Jabeen Director: Shahid Shafaat Channel: HUM TV
Ranked number 1 in the 5 Best Pakistani Dramas of 2023, Muhabbat Gumshuda Meri stands out with its crisp storyline. Initially underrated, the drama gained momentum as it progressed, proving to be the most romantic series. Dana Nair impressively portrays the role of an amateur girl experiencing love, capturing expressions and comments perfectly. Khushal Khan, akin to a desi Romeo and Juliet, acts vibrantly, overshadowing with genuine emotion. The drama showcases a passionate love story, making it a standout in the realm of Pakistani dramas.
As this year ends, we’ve picked the most controversial dramas of 2023, a tough job since so many serials keep throwing out objectionable stories. These dramas stood out in the sea of shows, focusing on themes like marriage and family conflicts. They’ve earned recognition for capturing large audiences and getting top ratings but also angered parts of the audience with misogynistic or sexist content.
Here’s the list for the most controversial dramas of 2023:
Mayi Ri
Writer:Sana Fahad Director: Meesam Naqvi Channel: ARY Digital
Mayi Ri, aired on ARY Digital, created waves in the drama scene, garnering attention, criticism, while also generating significant discussion. Considered a game-changer, it proved pivotal for stars like Aina Asif and Samar Jaffry, and marking a significant comeback for Maya Khan. While anticipated to address child marriage issues, the drama’s controversial content led to divided opinions. Despite criticism, the drama amassed a massive fan following defending its storyline against perceived problems.
2. Jurm
Writer: Sana Fahad Director: Mehreen Jabbar Channel: Geo Entertainment
Jurm was another mini-series this year which cannot be overlooked. It was the first mini-series of its kind which had it all – drama and mystery. Jurm also marked Mehreen Jabbar’s comeback to television and she made her presence felt in a way that only she can.
The story follows a newlywed couple deeply in love, willing to go to any lengths for each other. Their happiness takes a hit when Wahaj is attacked by thugs, and his wife gets kidnapped. Despite Wahaj appearing innocent due to his injuries, suspicions arise suggesting his possible involvement in the abduction of his wife. However, Jurm’s underwhelming end was the worst part of the series.
3. Jaisay Aapki Marzi
Writer: Naila Jaffri Director: Saba Hameed Channel: ARY Digital
Jaisay Aapki Marzi is a current favorite among viewers. It’s not just a show earning good ratings; many women, in particular, find it relatable. Unlike other dramas, it strikes a chord with the audience, connecting with their experiences and resonating with their lives.The story of drama revolves around Aleezay’s journey. She dreams of a successful career and living life on her terms but succumbs to parental pressure, marrying Sheheryar.
The plot unfolds as Aleezay grapples with a harsh reality—a marriage into a family dominated by abusive clinical narcissists.Despite some repetitive elements, it remains engaging, particularly when approached without a critical perspective. Mikaal Zulfiqar and Kiran Naz’s performances receive praise for their exceptional quality.
4. Hadsa
Writer: Zanjabeel Asim Director: Wajahat Rauf Channel: Geo Entertainment
Hadsa, the story of a rape survivor, landed in a perfect social media storm. Critics alleged that the serial insensitively portrayed a sensitive and distressing subject. Rape is a serious issue, and it’s crucial for media outlets and creators to consult with experts and survivor advocacy groups when tackling such topics. The drama, aired on Geo, left many expressing discomfort due to its perceived mishandling of the sensitive subject and its resemblance to a real-life horrific incident on the motorway in 2020. Supporters said that the drama highlights struggle and bravery of a rape survivor who fights against sexual violence.
5. Tere Bin
Writer: Nooran Makhdoom Director: Siraj-ul-Haq Channel: Geo Entertainment
Tere Bin has gained immense popularity, winning the hearts of millions worldwide. Its engaging storyline and outstanding performances have made a lasting impact on television, creating a remarkable presence in the entertainment landscape. As the highly popular Pakistani drama Tere Bin nears its conclusion, fans are preparing to bid a bittersweet farewell to the beloved characters of Murtasim and Meerab. Meerab and Murtasim, childhood friends, experience separation when Meerab is forced into a marriage she doesn’t want. After years apart, they reunite, and their bond evolves into love.
The series explores themes of love, separation, and the chance for a fresh start.But a surprise allusion to a marital rape scene cast a negative light on the chemistry between the lead cast. The shocking scenes stirred heated reactions on social media, with Tere Bin trending on Twitter. People voiced their concerns to the makers, questioning the decision to include such content at a time when women in Asian nations are already grappling with domestic violence issues.
The occasion of Eid ul Azha is finally here and the leading entertainment channels are all set to broadcast various dramas and telefilms during all three days of Eid festivities. Geo Entertainment is always in the lead with its superhit dramas, movies and special telefilms.
Geo has got something special lined up for us on each day of Eid, so let’s take a detailed look at their Eid line-up for all three days:
Eid Day 1
On the first day of Eid, Geo Entertainment has got us all covered with feature films, special telefilms, and drama serials. Geo will be kicking off Eid celebrations with a signature feature film, Heer Maan Ja, which will go on-air at 10:30am. The film features Ali Rehman Khan and Hareem Farooq in lead roles and covers their exciting journey of how they parted ways and then met years later only for their lives to turn upside down and turning into a rollercoaster ride where Heer falls into danger and needs Kabeer’s help.
Up next, they’ve got the perfect animated film to keep the children busy, which is The Donkey King, which will air at 2pm. Followed with Kurulus Osman Season two, Mega Episode, which will be aired at 5pm. The show follows the life of Osman Ghazi as he struggles to find and control the Ottoman Empire. After that, Bechari Qudsia will be on television at 7pm. The drama serial which features an ensemble cast follows the life of a young middle-class girl and how she loses her true identity once she is exposed to new surroundings.
At next at 8pm, they’ve got the super hit drama serial by 7th Sky entertainment, which is Fitoor. Starring Faysal Qureshi, Hiba Bukhari and Wahaj Ali in pivotal roles, this drama serial is a must watch! Produced by the media moguls of the entertainment industry, Abdullah Kadwani and Asad Qureshi, the drama narrates a love story that transcends above all and how a person in love is bound to forget his worries of the past and the uncertainty of the future.
Finally, at 9pm they’ve got an all-new rom-com telefilm, perfect to watch with your family members, Romantic Razia. Another ace production by 7th Sky production, the telefilm features Hina Altaf and Azfar Rehman in lead roles. Hina, who plays the role of Razia dreams of going to the northern areas for her honeymoon and Rameez, played by Azfar, crosses paths with Hina. However, a misunderstanding happens between the two and so their families try to resolve it as they try to bring the two together. A great watch during the Eid holidays and something to look forward to for sure!
To conclude day one, Dil Tera Hogaya will go on-air at 11pm. Starring Feroze Khan and Zara Noor Abbas, this is another great telefilm produced under the banner of 7th Sky Entertainment. The story follows two families who are divided by familial relationships but united by hearts. The perfect end to Eid day one!
Eid Day 2
Just like the first day of Eid, Geo has got some pretty interesting picks for the second day as well. Kickstarting the day at 10:30am with a hilarious film, Wrong No starring Danish Taimoor, Javed Sheikh, Sohai Ali Abro, and Danish Nawaz, this film will definitely get you in a great mood at the start of Eid day two.
Up next is 7th Sky Entertainment’s hit telefilm, Teri Meri Kahani at 2pm. This romantic telefilm starring Haroon Kadwani and Seher Khan is the perfect watch!
Followed with another Mega Episode of Kurulus Osman at 5pm, another new episode of Bechari Qudsia at 7pm, and then an all-new episode of the drama serial Fitoor at 8pm.
Keeping the tradition and spirit of Eid alive, an all-new telefilm by the maestro production house, 7th Sky Entertainment, Dadi Ka Damad will go on-air at 9pm. The telefilm, produced by Abdullah Kadwani and Asad Qureshi, stars the lovely duo of Affan Waheed and Madiha Imam and centres on familial ties and two families reuniting. The trailers of the telefilm have already created a lot of buzz amongst fans and it’ll no doubt be a great watch with the family during the Eid festivities.
Eid day two comes to an end with another must-watch telefilm, Zoya ne haan kardi, which goes on-air at 11pm. This story is about a young couple starring Agha Ali and Hiba Bukhari who are bound by their families, struggle to get into a relationship with each other. This light-hearted telefilm is the perfect end to a perfect Eid day two.
Eid Day 3
Just like Eid day one and two, Eid day three also has a great, entertaining lineup for us all. Geo entertainment will be starting us off with a revenge thriller film, Wajood at 10:30am starring Javed Sheikh, Danish Taimoor, Nadeem Baig, and Saeeda Imtiaz. Up next at 2 pm, they’ve got another great film, Wrong no. 2 starring Neelum Muneer, Sami Khan, Javed Sheikh, and many others. Another great comedy that will get you in the perfect feel-good mood for the day.
Once again at 5pm, a new Mega Episode of Kurulus Osman will go on-air, following an all-new episode of Bechari Qudsia at 7pm.
At 8pm, Geo will be show-casing an all-new Mega Episode of the super-hit drama serial, which has been making serious waves in the entertainment industry, Khuda Aur Mohabbat. Produced under the banner of 7th Sky Entertainment-led by the dynamic duo of Abdullah Kadwani and Asad Qureshi- and starring Feroze Khan and Iqra Aziz, fans wait for a new episode of this drama serial every week.
The last telefilm that Geo has lined up for the Eid festivities is Filmy Siyappa. This signature telefilm by 7th Sky Production follows the dramatic love story of Nayal and Maya who are childhood lovers, however, things soon begin to change when their families’ friendship escalates into rivalry. Starring Muneeb Butt and Hina Altaf, this light-hearted, fun telefilm concludes the great Eid lineup by Geo TV.
Eid-ul-Azha is around the corner and the leading entertainment channels are set to broadcast multiple telefilms during all three days of the Eid festivities.
Here’s a list of the ten most exciting telefilms:
Uff Yeh Biwiyan Reloaded
The popular TV host Nida Yasir and director Yasir Nawaz have something special lined up on Eid. The popular comedy telefilm Uff Yeh Biwiyan was released earlier on Eid-ul-Fitr. The fans will get a special sequel to the film this upcoming Eid. This telefilm is already creating a buzz on social media with its viral behind the scene clips. The project will also feature Shaista Lodhi and Sahiba Rambo in pivotal roles.
Muneeb Butt and Hiba Bukhari will be starring in a film with some “wedding shenanigans”. During an interview, the Fitoor diva said that this is a family-oriented drama and she is very excited about the storyline to unfold. Veteran actors Rubina Ashraf and Wasim Abbas will also be seen in pivotal roles.
Ghann Chakkar
Mahnoor Baloch and Aijaz Aslam will be starring in the telefilm Ghann Chakkar. Mahnoor will be seen in a movie after a long time. Along with them, it features Faysal Quraishi and Hina Dilpazeer. It will be exciting to see the Main Aur Tum duo, Aijaz and Faysal together on screen again.
Shahzad Sheikh will be seen in an upcoming telefilm Pyar Mein Blind along with Kinza Hashmi, Noor ul Hasan and Ahmed Hassan. The shooting is still in progress.
Hona Tha Pyar
After rising to fame from Eid drama Chupke Chupke Arslan Naseer is again going to be seen in Hum TV’s next project. A telefilm starring Sanam Jung.
Some great news for Sana Fakhar’s fans. She will be starring in an upcoming telefilm along with Javed Sheikh, Azfar Rehman, Nausheen Shah and Yasir Nawaz.
Muneeb Butt and Ushan Shah will be seen in a romantic telefilm. They have previously worked in Hum Production’s telefilm, Pinky Ka Dulha. Their on-screen chemistry and performance are much anticipated.
Akkar Bakkar
A star-studded rom-com with Hina Altaf, Muneeb Butt, Sana Askari and Hina Dilpazeer. It is based on the festival of Eid. We are excited to see how the story unfolds.
This is 7th Sky Entertainment Eid telefilm directed by Saima Waseem and the story is by Sumaera Fazal. The cast includes Affan Waheed, Madiha Imam, Hina Hayat, Farhan Ali Agha and Manzoor Qureshi.
Hira Mani appeared on Geo’s Jashan e Cricket, and fell down while getting on stage, although she quickly managed to get up.
When The Current reached out to the anchor and his team to find out what happened, Shahzad Iqbal said, “I asked her (Hira) if she was okay, and needed some help during the show. These kind of things happen on live television and she was a good sport about it”.
The Kashf actress, was her humorous self on the show and played a game where she had to predict something for celebrities and famous personalities. When Mustafa Kamal’s picture popped up, Hira expressed her request for him to transform Karachi like Lahore.
Elaborating on her point, she added that she wants Karachi’s roads and infrastructure to improve, Hira also wants the water crises in the city to be resolved at the earliest.
Hira explained her Katrina Kaif comment by saying that she likes Bollywood superstar Katrina but the Dhoom 3 actress has used botox whereas Hira hasn’t.
Saima Akram Chaudhry, who has penned the wildly successful Chupke Chupke, Ishq Jalebi and Suno Chanda has said that there will be no second or third seasons of these dramas.
“Dear fans, viewers and followers, I know you loved Chupke Chupke, Ishq Jalebi and Suno Chanda. I am grateful to all but it’s not possible for me to take your Instagram calls and talk [to] everyone,” wrote Akram on social media.
“Please accept my apologies and don’t call directly. Trust me it’s too irritating and it is too unethical to call someone at midnight,” she said further.
Chaudhry also said that she cannot help anyone launch their career in the entertainment industry as it’s not her department.
“And channels are not planning for season two or three,” added Chaudhry.
Meanwhile, earlier fans had speculated that a sequel of Chupke Chupke was in the works after Ayeza Khan shared a clip of herself and Osman Khalid Butt dressed up as Meenu and Faazi from the drama.
Furthermore, director Danish Nawaz said that there is a possibility for a sequel if the script and story are good. He said discussions on the topic are ongoing and that he cannot confirm anything as yet.
With no Eid milan parties, a ban on travelling and Apa keeping a close eye on all the pappiyan and jhuppiyan, Pakistanis are left with no other choice but to enjoy Pakistani television in the comfort of their homes.
This is the second Eid ul Fitr we will be spending in unusual circumstances where we have to keep our masks on and social distancing in mind while staying at home as per the government lockdown rules. So why not use this time to bond as a family and watch a family entertainer together?
Pakistani entertainment channels have a string of telefilms and Eid special shows lined up for the holiday weekend. Here’s your ultimate guide to those:
Ary Digital
Bulbulay
Bulbulay will air on all three days of Eid-ul-Fitr at 6 PM with it’s regular cast.
The Eid special telefilm features Yasir Nawaz, Nida Yasir and Shaista Lodhi in lead roles. It also marks Nida’s return to acting after 10 years. Uff Ye Biwiyaan will air on the first day of Eid on ARY Digital at 7 PM.
Nazish Jahangir and Hammad Shoaib will be seen in supporting roles.
Telefilm Tameezuddin Ki Batamez Family will air on the second day of Eid at 7 PM. Directed by Iftikhar Iffi and written by Hassan Imam (Taana Baana), the telefilm will feature Hina Dilpazir, Saba Faisal, Sidra Niazi, Humayun Ashraf, Raeed Alam and Qavi Khan.
Watch 1970 A Love Story, featuring Asim Azhar, Urwa Hocane and Javed Sheikh, on the second day of Eid at 9 PM. Written by Mohsin Ali Shah, the telefilm has been directed by Badar Mehmood.
The newly married Nadia Khan returns to the screens with Dilruba Cottage which is scheduled to air on the third day of Eid at 7 PM. Besides Nadia, the telefilm will also feature Babar Ali, Saifee Hassan, Daniyal Afzal, Ali Rizvi and Sabeen Syed.
ARY Digital isalso airing its blockbuster movies on all three days of Eid. Jawani Phir Nahi Aani, Punjab Nahi Jaungi and Parey Hut love will be premiered on Eid’s day one to three respectively.
Hum TV
Do Batta Aath
The Eid Special Telefilm 2 Batta 8, featuring Maria Wasti and Ahmed Ali Butt with eight children, will air on the second day of Eid at 7 PM.
What happens when two people who despise each other end up together? Find out in Dil Ke Chor on the third day of Eid at 6 PM. Hania Aamir and Momin Saqib will be featuring in Shazia Wajaht’s directorial debut.
It will also be airing its blockbuster films Superstar and Parwaaz Hai Junoon on Eid day one and Eid day two respectively.
Geo Entertainment
Teri Meri Kahani
Teri Meri Kahani will air on the first day of Eid at 10 PM. Abdullah Kadwani and Asad Qureshi’s telefilm film will be introducing Ali Faizan and Saira Raza in leads alongside big names including Bushra Ansari, Javed Sheikh and Usman Peerzada.
Filmy Siyappa
Filmy Siyappa is scheduled to air on the second day of Eid at 9 PM. The unique and film love story features Muneeb Butt and Hina Altaf in the lead.
Zoya Ne Haan Kardi
Featuring Aagha Ali and Hiba Bukhari in lead roles, Zoya Ne Haan Kardi will be televised on the third day of Eid at 8:30 PM.
Meanwhile, feature Films including Donkey King, Wrong No. 1, Heer Maan Ja, Maan Jao Na, Balu Mahi, Chupan Chupai, Wajood, Khulay Aasman Kay Neechay and Mehrunisa V Lub U will also be televised during the Eid weekend. Check out the Eid schedule here:
Take a flashback to the past few years, we have been observing the trend of airing sitcoms or romantic-comedy dramas on different channels during the month of Ramzan. Although this trend initially received much criticism. However, with the passage of time, people have started to enjoy watching these entertainment packages. Chupke Chupke and Tanaa Banaa of HUM TV are giving us laughter dose after every Iftaar, while Geo TV has given Ishq Jalebi.
These dramas are offering comedy, controversies and family politics but they’ve also given us four delightful on-screen couples. Zain and Zoya from Tanaa Banaa, Hadi and Mishi, Meenu and Faazi/Ustaad Jee from Chupke Chupke and Basim and Bela from Ishq Tamasha.
Zain and Zoya
Zain (Danyal Zafar) is a young boy who fell in love with Zoya (Alizeh Shah) at first sight. The couple has interesting chemistry with Zain expressing all his love for Zoya and Zoya just starting to realise that how much Zain loves her. While Zoya is stubborn, Zain is a loving and caring husband. The two are poles apart and this keeps the drama interesting.
Hadi and Mishi
Arslan Naseer is playing the role of Hadi while Aymen Saleem is acting as Mishi in Chupke Chupke. There is a unique hidden chemistry between this couple that was initially growing in the form of one-sided love. But now that Hadi has also fallen in love with Mishi, this love story has taken a new turn and one of the reasons why you tune into Chupke Chupke every night.
Meenu and Faazi /Ustaad Jee
Ayeza Khan is playing as Meenu and Osman Khalid Butt is playing as Faaz aka Meenu’s Ustaad Jee. Faaz used to teach Meenu so she calls him Ustaad Jee. However, in a strange turn of event the two ended up getting married and while they were initially embarrassed by this development, they are now slowly beginning to catch feelings.
Faaz, who didn’t like Meenu for her carelessness and ignorance towards studies, is now falling for her innocence. Meenu too has started to like him and their cute ways of showing affection is making the drama more interesting. With many twists and turns, their wedding is at stake and everyone is eager to see what will happen next and what new problem will arise for the newly weds.
Basim and Bela
Ishq Jalebi stars the Madiha Imam and Wahaj Ali in leading roles. Basim who is on the lookout for a shortcut to go abroad is in cahoots with Bela (Madiha Imam). She is his sidekick, best friend, and partner in crime in all that he does and also his maternal cousin who was orphaned as a child and lives with them. While Basim may not have realised how much Bela truly loves him, we the audiences can definitely see it and are absolutely loving the chemistry the two have with each other. With scenes that will make your heart have a happy dance, these two stars are a treat to watch and we’re anxious to see what Ishq Jalebi has in store for them next.
While each couple has its own charm, my favourite has to be Meenu and Faazi. Both Osman and Ayeza have brought Meenu and Faazi to life brilliantly. Very much like Faaz, I used to detest Meenu and didn’t want him to marry her. But as the story progressed, I am also enjoying their naivety, blamelessness and non-romantic fondness. Looking forward to seeing how they will cross all obstacles among them and finally become husband and wife.
Love triangles and cheating husbands are not new to Pakistani television. I have seen at least one if not more dramas on the subject and they have pretty much been done to death. Fitoor, which airs on Geo Entertainment, is the latest love triangle on the block with our hero oscillating between two women: one his wife and the other his pehli mohabbat (first love). He is unable to make a decision or decide who he wants to spend his life with. In this review, I try to break down whether our hero is confused and masoom or if he’s simply being unfaithful and enjoying the attention of both the women in his life.
Haider (Faysal Quraishi) was (or is) in love with his cousin Mehmal (Kiran Haq) since the two were young and Haider was poor. However, Mehmal, who wanted a better life (read money) ditched him and got married to her other cousin Ansab (Tipu Sharif), a well-off man with many indulgences including women and alcohol. From the beginning, Ansab made it clear that he was not going to change his ways. Haider is heartbroken with Mehmal’s bewafai and doesn’t get married focusing all his energies on building his business and becoming rich.
He has a chance encounter with Dilnasheen (Hiba Bukhari) at a wedding and falls for her and soon the two get married. Now that Haider is rich and married, Mehmal starts feeling insecure and regretting her decision so she leaves her husband and settles into Haider’s house with her young daughter.
She continues to make advances on Haider, who makes half-hearted attempts to tell her off but Mehmal is persistent. When Haider’s mother (Ismat Zaidi) realises what is happening, she throws Mehmal out of the house. However, Mehmal spins this around and gains Haider’s sympathies. Instead of taking her back home to face the wrath of his mother, Haider books Mehmal into a hotel under the name of Mr and Mrs Haider Salman. Not only that, but he also spends a substantial amount of his day with her in the hotel.
While initially, we gave Haider the benefit of doubt, understanding that Mehmal was his first love and it is hard for him to get over her, we have now had enough. Haider is simply not making a decision or taking a stand but is instead yo-yoing between the two women. He spends his mornings with Mehmal, allowing her to fawn over him, and in the evening he goes home and gets cosy with his wife who is spending all her energies trying to win his heart.
Haider has also saved Mehmal’s name as Muneer on his phone and one wonders why he needs to do that unless he is hiding something. Besides, he also lied to Mehmal telling her that his phone’s battery was dead when in fact he was sharing a romantic moment with his wife. By doing this he is leading Mehmal on and giving her hope instead of drawing the line.
In the latest episode, Dilnasheen catches Haider having lunch with Mehmal at the hotel and decides she has had enough. She leaves and goes back to her mother’s house. The scene that plays out at her mother’s house is disappointing, to say the least. Dilnasheen’s mother (Saba Faisal) not only justifies Haider’s behaviour but also tells her to accept it and try to win Haider’s heart. On the other hand, Dilnasheen’s brother Yawar (Kamran Jilani) blames the entire situation on her, telling her that she still harbours feelings for her ex-boyfriend Hamza (Wahaj Ali) and has not accepted Haider as her husband.
Mehmal’s damsel in distress act and reluctance to go back to her husband is also getting tiring and one wishes that Haider would stop constantly trying to be the knight in shining armour for her. At this point, it’s getting a little hard to believe that Haider is confused. He knows exactly what he is doing but is continuing to do so under the act of being caring and supportive towards his “yateem” cousin. So unless he pulls his act together, he’s going to get the label of a ‘cheating husband’.
While Fitoor may seem typical on the surface, it is saved by great performances. Each actor has slid perfectly into their roles, giving solid performances. We may hate Haider but we are thoroughly enjoying Faysal’s performance. The writing is strong in most places as is the direction. The production value is a little weak with jumps in many scenes and Dilnasheen terribly needs a good stylist – the flowy clothes and hair are doing her no good. Especially when Mehmal’s outfits ooze glamour. Quraishi’s makeup is also terrible, making him look older and plastic in some places.
Written by Zanjabeel Asim and directed by Siraj ul Haq, Fitoor airs every Thursday on Geo Entertainment.
