Yaaar – no, no, no, no – this play of events although slightly predictable from last week’s episode, did not work for me. I was finding it a bit difficult relating to all the characters and now it seems to be a hopeless task! Saba – mentally unstable, suffering from childhood trauma I see, but what is with these random lapses in her mental understanding of the world? Yes, she has moments when she has no control over her emotions and actions and her past comes to haunt her but she did not seem to lack a basic understanding of life. Then why this constant wonder of what marriage is, and how she can not simply ‘donate’ her husband. If she is meant to be portraying the image of a girl who is simple, then she falls flat because she seems to carry herself well most of the time and can converse with family members and take care of Sameer then this totally going off the track randomly makes no sense to me.

Maami makes an appearance in this episode as she pays a visit to see how her daughter is faring. Her horror and shock and then her conversation later with Shariq’s mother gives us an insight into how she is viewing the situation and from her point of view it does look quite awful. Shariq, according to Maami, married Saba so that he may appear noble in front of everyone and brought her to his home only to have her drugged and cast aside while he lives a happily married life with Zoya. The sleep injection – did Saba really have one or did Phuppo make that up? But then – Maami was the one who cajoled, emotionally pressurized and then literally jumped the nikkah on Shariq. Then again – Shariq’s mother refused to listen to Shariq’s objections and demanded he agree to marrying Saba. So really, nobody makes any sense to me. Shariq’s mother suddenly feels this strong urge to see her son happy and lets him marry Zoya – why could she not have felt that urge before she forced him to marry Saba? And where does she get off justifying his marriage to Maami? Where does Shariq get off being so righteous? Why oh why did they have to listen to that wretched psychiatrist and not get a second opinion? And if they listened to her, then why not have her explain a bit what she meant by marriage curing Saba for surely a nikkah nama and a roof to live under while she plays with her husband’s other wife’s kid was not in the prescription? For that is really ALL the connection Shariq has with Saba.

Which then brings me to Saba. Her jealousy is too intense too soon. Seconds ago she is thrilled to have ‘donated’ her husband and now her mother’s speech brings back memories of older speeches given by Maami and the scene where Saba tries on Zoya’s clothes and lipstick was nothing less than psychotic. So a character that is introduced as someone suffering from the trauma of childhood abuse is then thrown into a marriage which starts with being confined in a room with the one man she trusted besides her father and then being slapped by him. Then she is meant to feel emotions such as possessiveness and jealousy and learn the art of pleasing her husband – I mean, writing it all down is giving me an anxiety attack what in the world were the writer, the director, the cast thinking?! Even if all that was meant to be how this story flows, I still find it hard to relate to how Saba has done this complete shift in emotions and is now insanely jealous of Zoya.

Oh but nahin, let’s not forget Zoya. Yeh sub meri wajah se ho raha hai – no shit! Excuse my language but really? Err, yes – Saba’s mother is angry because umm, you married her daughter’s husband. Seems pretty obvious to me! Never has a female lead seemed as bland and unlikable as Zoya has been. If there is one character in this play that has minded his own business, not given anyone any trouble even though he has been blamed to be difficult – is Sameer. Drama kahan se kahan chala gaya, he has remained consistently quiet in that blanket, not needing anything, not demanding anything.

At one point during this episode I almost contemplated to stop reviewing this play and given that it appears very few of us are even watching it and those that are do it in a state of stupor/disbelief/ bewilderment – kindly share your thoughts and let me know if you do need me to continue these reviews or I may be relieved :)

Kunwal Javid

I cannot thank enough Nemrah Ahmed for this amazing episode and with such beautiful lessons which clear your mind and make you understand your worth. In the previous episode I was a bit disappointed for Haneen’s track as I felt her character needed more attention but after seeing the title of the coming episode I was over the moon to see her name.

Coming to the episode, the poetry was thought provoking it was actually a contrast between Kardashians….oops Kardaars and Yousuf’s Family. Haneen accepting her faults and repenting was in contrast with Hashim’s sins and his justifications. Same could be said about Naushervan and Saadi.

Faris, Zumar and Aabdaar:

I don’t know if Faris already knew about Niyaz baig or was he trying to give Hashim an indirect message don’t know but Faris failed this time. Faris and Ahmer’s scenes were hilarious, Whenever I read about Ahmer I always feel some Khair (good) in him.Yes, khair se yaad aaya Faris did something genius…JazakAllah u Khairan..hmmm who is this person it is still a mystery.

Faris- Zumar duo is always very hilarious, this couple cannot have a convo without tantrums and bullying but they still are sweethearts.

Yousuf’s Family’s Flaw: 

I have to admit what Hashim said to Naushervan about Yousuf’s  was right. Their self-image of being superior to others has affected them a lot. Zumar being a confident,strong and bold person was brutally broken after knowing the truth about her kidney failure and all the drama Hashim created to hurt her.

Naushervan reaching to the point of killing someone because of the frustration he lived with in which Saadi and Haneen did play a part. If we judge Naushervan as a person and acknowledge the tantrums and hate he was subjected to then it feels sad. Sometimes we in our self-righteous image criticize others so badly that we often forget this will not make us any better but will harbor so much hatred in others that they might take extreme measures to satisfy their ego.

I love this novel because they have not shown Yousuf’s as angels but they are truly human you know why because they repent and move on, unlike Kardaars who justify their acts and stay the same.

Still suspicious about Hashim: 

Ahh, my wishful thinking again I saw something in this episode which alarmed me and gave me hope to see Hashim turning to good. What Nudrat Aapa said to Hashim was heart wrenching, well even if it feels good that he might be guided but that guilt and regret would not let him live peacefully. Sigh!!!

Maybe he might change his mind after witnessing Naushervan’s life as he is slowly and gradually moving towards light. It gives me immense pleasure to see this change in Naushervan, that’s the positivity which is required.

Haneen- You are still not normal:

Haha…I think Osama was right when he was saying Hanna is overacting, I mean it wasn’t required to see her so much confident but ye tou banta haina boss she was back with a bang! And Osama such an adorable brother was eager to face the court just for giving a moral support to her sister.

Good job Hanna, I was really impressed by her answers and how intelligently she trapped Hashim . After all  Faris and Zumar had such an influence on her ab jis ghar main aise shaatir Mamun aur zaheen wakeel hongain, haneen could not be an exception.

DIY- idea was awesome and I believe every girl is talented and can use her talent in productive things.

Loved the way she stood for herself and what she said to Naushervan about Izzat was perfect!

I honestly can’t say much about it, because this episode have definitely taught girls some great lessons.

Saadi- The savior 

How can we forget hamara Saadi and how he used to be but in this episode we got a glimpse of old Saadi and that dialogue thrown towards Ahmer “ Tum Meri Maa nahi ho” was such a delight. Haha…I still enjoy this scene, Ahmer is a treat.

Coming to the last part of the episode….this is not done why every time its Zumar and her life being played for the sake of Kardaar’s selfishness. I believe everyone has suffered but Zumar did lose a lot.She is strong but this is too much, we all can’t see her suffer anymore. One more thing the last episode ended at someone killing someone in the court*** but after reading this episode it seems its Zumar being killed by Hashim.

Fingers crossed and all Namlians are in a dharna to  #SaveZumar because, She is worth it!

Share your thoughts about this episode and do tell me about how Haseena is having that gold…ahem ahem something fishy!!

Asma Jamali

So it continues. This episode again focused on Mehwish’s insecurities and jealousy, the desperate hunt for a husband for Zara, Faisal’s long reflective ponderings – until the last ten minutes of the episode which then seemed to pave the way for new happenings. Mehwish is keen to have Zara married and while she claims it is because she thinks it is best for Zara to be married, I had my doubts about Mehwish’s ulterior motive and Faisal seemed to echo my thoughts. I do not understand how Zara being wedded off quickly is good for her in any way when she is clearly still in college and surely can wait a few years. From society’s point of view too, with Mehwish and Faisal’s marriage still so new maybe waiting a while would make sense too in the hope of having people forget the whole ‘scandal’. Then one can not forget all the ‘Zara should be an independent, educated, confident woman’ speeches then seriously why this desperate rush? Only thought that comes to mind, which Mehwish has clearly actually stated and now Faisal says is that with Zara wedded and gone, Faisal can move back in. I mean, seriously? I may not want to judge Mehwish for marrying a younger man, daughter’s ex fiancé and all that but this is rather hard to stomach. She insists she knows what is best for Zara but I was surprised that she did not even feign outrage over Faisal’s comment.

Anyways, with Faisal thrown out and living right opposite the ever caring Amber and her mother, he is beginning to grow close to them. Does this guy have no friends? Hobbies? With Mehwish being shown in an ever increasing negative light, Faisal seems to be even more angelic. He is genuinely concerned about Zara, genuinely concerned about his neighbours, genuinely in love and upset over his wife’s attitude. Uggh! Itna genuine keh bechara after rendering his services to others all day he has to resort to a candle lit (well, unlit) dinner of – bread and milk. It is quite obvious where the writer is going with Mehwish and Faisal’s track but somehow I am not feeling ‘poor’ Faisal. Oh well.

If there was any confusion over shades of white and black or grey in Mehwish’s character – it has been pretty much wiped out. Mehwish is insecure, jealous, petty and then some! Her character is shown to be a woman who has now stopped being a mother, a friend, a neighbour, a compassionate human being and all she is now is a possessive, jealous, suspicious wife. Period. Her demanding Faisal leave work and come to the apartment then not answering his calls, all this pouting and flouncing is so unbecoming! I wish her character was not shown to be so negative for I would have liked to see this drama tackle this track of their marriage while they remained the ‘normal’ish people they originally were rather than painting Mehwish openly as the evil one, giving Faisal a free ticket to stray which it seems he eventually will.

Saggi maa itnay maan se sawaal nahin daalti jitna Elfy Aunty does! But the end of this episode saw her passing away, leaving Amber all alone in the world. It seems so predictable where this is going but let’s see. Another new character was also introduced – the new neighbour that pays Zara a visit. Wonder what his role will be – surely not a prospect for Zara?

Is it just me or did anyone else feel that they were turning their heads at odd angles during some scenes? Such as when Faisal goes to the apartment and the elevator scenes. I admire experimenting with direction but a bit longer and I would have a crick in my neck! I am pleasantly surprised to see Saboor Ali’s toned down acting and hope I have not spoken too soon. Maria Wasti as Mehwish has finally come through for me as has Farhan Saeed as Mother (Teresa) Faisal. I started reviewing this drama because I liked the fast pace, the storyline was different and above all how the characters had not been judged and had their fates sealed as they seem to have done now. But the past few episodes have only highlighted Mehwish’s insecurity and Faisal’s mazloomiat so we get it, can we move on now? With Amber’s mother’s death, it seems that the story will move along – I sure hope so! What did you all make of this episode – would love to hear your thoughts!

Kunwal Javid

Ohkay so, I got to watch 3 episodes back to back because I had no idea that they aired Aap Ke Liye twice last week & just when I was excited that I will get enough content to watch, I was actually a bit disappointed at the pace at which the things moved forward. What’s amusing is the the 11th & the 12th episode literally had nothing to offer, whereas some progress was made in the 13th episode, so I am glad they aired the episode # 11 & 12 in a week, because it eliminated the number of slow episodes that were & are remaining!

Washma is just being herself even after her marriage, which is a good thing but then at times I find her immaturity a little too forced. She knows that Nishat doesn’t like her, then there was no reason for Washma to go & act all cute in front of Nishat’s friends. I know Washma is someone who doesn’t filter what she says but then participating in someone’s gathering does not suit a carefree girl like her. Nishat has made it quite obvious on Washma that she can’t stand her but I like the fact that Washma doesn’t seem to care.

Honestly speaking, after seeing the amazing characters like Anmol & Washma that Faiza Iftikhar penned down, I was a little disappointed in seeing a character like Dilruba being a part of her project. I think we are past that stage where throwing in such old school ideas will make things work. Dilruba’s confession that she can attract any man towards her in a jiffy was off-putting & cringe worthy because firstly, I don’t see the need of such a character in this script, secondly I don’t really understand why a woman is being demeaned like that. It has been quite obvious that this drama will have a very typical plot, but to see it being reduced to this level of typicality does leave a bad taste in mouth. Nishat planted Dilruba to create some tension between Washma & Shaheer but then again, Nishat should’ve known better because of all the girls in the world, Dilruba is not the one who can grab Shaheer’s attention since she is not classy, poised or elegant & most importantly definitely not the kind of a girl that Shaheer would even want to associate with.

Nishat & Imdaad’s scenes are too long, boring & forced. I definitely accept that some women like to keep themselves dolled up but sorry, no one speaks in such an artificial way. I wish Samina Peerzada, with so much of experience up her sleeve had made Nishat’s character a little believable because it depends a lot on the actor as to what sort of a treatment they want to give to the character that has been assigned to them.

Washma & Shaheer’s scenes were good to watch. They both have started to develop an understanding for each other & even though they are polar opposites, things are looking pretty good because Washma shows Shaheer such an approach & perspective that he was never aware of & Shaheer teaches Washma importance of so many little things that she has overlooked all her life, so I like how they both balance each other out & even though they have nothing in common, they aren’t hesitant in exploring each other. Washma has started to grow concerned about Shaheer & that is something that is convincing him that he didn’t make a wrong decision. I like how Washma tells him to take a stand for her in the matters concerning Nishat, but at the same time, she tells him to be considerate towards Areesha’s feelings as she can relate to what she must be going through as Washma has first hand experienced what it feels like when your brother gives importance to his wife over you. I enjoyed watching all such moments where Shaheer was skeptical & resistant but chose to go with the flow & enjoy things Washma’s way, as it showed that he is giving this marriage a chance despite telling Nishat that this marriage doesn’t mean anything to him.

I think Shaheer’s ex-wife was only made a part of the drama so that the editor could get a chance to play the OST in the background because she has been a done & dusted character even when the drama began, so I don’t see an importance of her character nor do I look forward to what she has to offer & I will also add that the loud OST in her crying scenes does not evoke any sympathy for her.

Looks like Nishat has already waged a war against Washma & she is ready to let Washma know what she can do to someone she hates. I am sure her visit to Omar’s house was only to reject him but she must’ve changed her mind only to score some brownie points in front of Areesha. Nishat doesn’t want to upset her sister as she needs some support & one more family member in her team to shoo Washma away. Washma created a scene because she eavesdropped on Nishat where she was telling how she will reject Omar, but now when Nishat will do the opposite, Washma will be blamed for lying about Nishat Apa. Areesha is someone who can be persuaded easily as she doesn’t have a mind of her own that is why she immediately grew suspicious of Nishat’s intentions when she heard everything that Washma was saying but Shaheer on the other hand respects Nishat completely & trusts her blindly, so I am sure he won’t let her off the hook.

The preview of the next episode already suggested that Shaheer & Washma are going to hit the rock bottom & their new formed relationship will suffer & Nishat will continue to add fuel to the fire because she will find out that Shaheer was supporting her & was mad at Washma for how she accused his sister. Overall, these three episodes weren’t interesting & this has become one of those plays that can be tuned to while you’re busy with something, more like a background noise that you might want at times. Even though the characters of Nishat & Imdad are annoying, I am kind of disappointed at the way Samina Peerzada & Waseem Abbas handled these characters. I never really imagined that I will get to see Waseem Abbas in a ‘silky satiny’ beige shirt & then those overdone expressions. I feel that Samina Peerzada has gotten way more coverage than required because the moment she comes on screen, that’s the time when I know I don’t have to pay heed to those scenes as she has nothing meaningful to say. Arij Fatima & Faysal Qureshi have been quite impressive & their characters are perfectly written too. The director & the cameraman once again gave me a headache by the continuous movement of the camera, I so wish they don’t opt for this technique ever again in their future projects, it seriously is a headache provoker. Anyways, please share your thoughts about these episodes of Aap Ke Liye.

Keep Supporting,
Cheers,
Zahra Mirza.

Ohkay so, this episode of Dhaani was quite interesting because it balanced out the sufferings of both the people involved in something they don’t want to put a label on.

Dhaani had her bad experience after getting rejected but looks like even though Sameer is unhappy about how things are shaping up in his life, the main reason of his restlessness is Dhaani. Dhaani was down & depressed but what pushed her to the limit was when she heard from Shaani that Sameer wanted to speak to her for the very last time. Dhaani knows that there’s nothing that he can or he will do, so there’s no point in giving him another chance. Sameer has been unable to figure out what is bothering him, like is it the unnecessary pressure that his family has put on him or is it the void that Dhaani has left in his life, which is why he is getting quite anxious & angry as the days are passing by.

I liked the conversation Sameer’s sister in law had with him. She is probably the only person in the entire family who can not only understand but can relate to everything that Sameer is feeling because she herself has been through it all. It was good to see that Sameer had someone who he could confide in, that is why without even bothering much, Sameer just straight away told her that he wasn’t thrilled with the news of his & Maya’s engagement. Sameer is a free bird, that is something that we all know, but for the first time we got to know that Sameer doesn’t like the system of social climbing that prevails in his family. Sameer hates the idea of mixing personal & professional lives to reap the benefits out of it. Sameer & Maya’s engagement was another business deal that Rehan finalized without even asking Sameer because for him, Sameer’s happiness wasn’t important at all & that was something that put Sameer off big time!

Talk about the timing gone wrong, Dhaani had to get engaged the same day Sameer was getting engaged, that too in the same vicinity. I honestly didn’t like how easily Sameer agreed for this engagement, like he didn’t retaliate at all or didn’t try to buy himself some time for himself to sort things out in his life. Even though he wasn’t ready for a life long commitment, Sameer didn’t even try to tell his family the truth about his feelings for Maya & the only thing he made a fuss about was the venue of his engagement ceremony, which made me dislike his character even more. As far as not understanding what love means, Sameer is justified but when it comes to focusing on nominal things & not taking a stand for the right thing at the right time, Sameer seems quite immature & irrational. Sameer has been struggling emotionally since the day his family announced his engagement & he has been quite rude with Maya too, so I don’t understand what’s the point of obediently accepting something that he’s not into? Now when Maya is all happy, Sameer will affect her life by being rude to her & by being aloof to her feelings, which she most certainly does not deserve. I know things are not that easy but if Sameer didn’t love Maya & also he couldn’t bluntly refuse his family, he could at least buy himself some time to think things through because now when he will call his engagement off in the future, it will cause more hurt to Maya & to both the families involved. I feel Sameer chose to stay quiet for the wrong thing at the wrong time!

I loved the way Raja snapped out of his depression to make Shaani & Dhaani smile. He is such a selfless guy & I admire the lengths he goes to for the sake of his cousins. I wish Kaleem could understand how nice Raja is & hadn’t been so hard on him because that way Bee Jee could’ve told her brother about Raja’s feelings for Dhaani. Even though I know it’s not going to happen but I’m still rooting for Raja & Dhaani’s union because I still don’t think Sameer’s worth it & he also proved that he is quite selfish by the unreasonable demand he put forth in front of his friend. Now that Sameer has had this emotional awakening all of a sudden, he will end up hurting Dhaani, her entire family & Amjad’s family too, which to be honest none of them deserve to go through.

Overall, this entire episode was pretty decent but I wish to see some progress in the story & some happening episodes in the future. All the actors have done an amazing job & the director has beautifully directed this play. I feel even the supporting actors have done their bit well but the girl playing the role of Maya is quite weak in terms of acting. I know she was hired to play a certain kind of a role but I guess any girl could’ve faked an accent because it’s the acting in general that is important & should be impressive & not a certain way of speaking of someone to be assigned a character to portray. I also wish the makeup artists had taken care of the actress playing Maya’s character because her complexion looks ashy & muddy & her face looks quite greasy in all the scenes, may be she was after a dewy look but it just didn’t work. I tried to avoid talking about that actress in the previous reviews but since she is getting so much of coverage at this stage, I just had to say it. Anyways, please share your thoughts about this episode of Dhaani.

Keep Supporting,
Cheers,
Zahra Mirza.