Kabli Pulao is the only drama at the moment which has not gone off track even once. Not only has the Kabli Pulao team given us the most unforgettable on-screen jodi but through this drama, the writer has redefined the concept of love. Also, it goes without saying that it is always great to watch quality entertainment that breaks stereotypes and does so without preaching. Haji Mushtaq and Barbeena’s journey has been filled with ups and downs. This recent episode was the most important one because with this episode these two officially recognized each other as husband and wife. Both these characters have been penned down so well that they always manage to surprise you. This was another episode in which not a single scene was out of place. It marked the new beginning of a relationship that has evolved greatly in the past 8 weeks. The performances continue to be beyond impressive and the execution of the drama is always up to the mark.

Barbeena’s Strengths

The one thing that stood out for me more than any other in this episode was Barbeena taking control yet again. I find it extremely interesting the way Barbeena has been taking the first steps in this relationship right from the start. Starting from the nikkah to the consummation of this marriage everything was Barbeena’s decision. This character is the perfect combination of sensitivity, empathy, intelligence, and strength. She has been observing Haji Mushtaq’s sacrifices for her and others around him silently. At the same time, she has been reliving her past. These two things combined together have increased the ‘respect’ she has for Haji Mushtaq and through these circumstances the writer has shown that respect indeed is love in action!

The flashback scenes with Baraan in the previous two episodes showed a different side of Barbeena. The love she felt for and shared with Baraan was completely different from the one she feels for Haji Mushtaq now. The circumstances have changed drastically and these two men are poles apart as well. I must say that Barbeena is anything but a victim but there are times when I feel for this character. She is the perfect representation of how war changes lives tragically almost overnight. She could have lived a much more comfortable and happier life had she not been driven away from her home. However, even in the current circumstances, Barbeena has shown the kind of strength of character that is a rarity in Pakistani dramas. Even though there were so many situations in which the writer could have twisted the situations to make the viewers feel for Barbeena even more he chose not to do so.

Haji Mushtaq – An Unforgettable Character

Right from the beginning Haji Mushtaq’s character stood out not just as an unconventional leading man but also as a realistic representation of a ‘good man’. Even though he is a wise and resourceful man, the writer has never held back while showing his vulnerabilities. His vulnerabilities and shortcomings make this character more human. At the same time, the writer has made sure that Haji Mushtaq’s positive traits stand out. Just the way Barbeena’s strength shines out more than her other character traits, Haji Mushtaq’s commitment and dedication towards his relationships is one of those traits that supersedes all the others. Right from the beginning, he has done nothing but serve those he loves and he has done so against all odds. Starting from his mothers to his siblings, his commitment to not just protect his family but also to ensure that they are happy is one of those personality traits that has kept his relationship with Barbeena from withering away. Even though this was a commitment that was forced on him he accepted it whole-heartedly nevertheless.

It is also interesting the way these two people who are overflowing with love and dedication are now trying to do whatever they were doing individually before. Barbeena and Haji Mushtaq’s escape from the family home to save Chammo’s marriage was a classic example of how far these two individuals can go to save those they love.

Heartwarming Moments

This episode started off on a bleak note but as the story progressed there were so many heartwarming moments that reflected the special bond which these two exceptional characters shared. The way Barbeena explained to the judge how much Haji Mushtaq had paid to ‘buy’ her was one of the best scenes in this particular episode. I found the fact that she counted all the ‘khwari’ as well to be the most touching aspect of this scene. It was also good to hear that pyar and mohabbat came before izzat this time around. Another scene that won me over was Haji sahab making breakfast for his new bride. A person who could not even think about such a day in his life a few days back was now owning it and living it as if he deserved it. These were the kind of scenes you can go back and watch over and over again.

The Sidetracks

Chammo and Ghaffar’s track had to be the most important side track in this particular episode. Instead of making Chammo understand that Ghaffar was not worth the tears or the trouble, Haji Mushtaq allowed his sister to follow her heart. Also, it is quite clear by now that this family is extremely conservative and will do anything at all to save a marriage because of societal pressure. Chammo ‘loves’ her good-for-nothing husband and the fact that she cannot bear children perhaps makes her put up with a lot that she would not have put up with otherwise. Among all the female characters in the drama Chammo is the only one who is not wise. Ghaffar’s conversation with Qayyum also showed that hitting women was not something that was frowned upon in this family.

Ayesha’s character depicts the change that the new generation is bringing with it. Her relationship with her husband is completely different. They are not just friends but she clearly dominates. Zubaida’s character has to be one of the many likable side characters in this drama. Her relationship with Haji Mushtaq and her role as the bari bahu has been translated on-screen brilliantly by Munazzah Arif. Shamim’s scenes have been penned down so powerfully and Nadia Afgan has breathed life into them. She is one of the many imperfect but intelligent female characters in the drama. All these characters have their own peculiar personalities and each actor has performed their respective role so well that it is difficult to pick a favorite. I am wondering where the Chammo-Ghaffar track is going because it is getting more negative with every passing episode.

Final Remarks

Kabli Pulao has set the standards really high with exceptional performances, a script that keeps on giving, and direction that never ceases to impress. The preview of the next episode actually made me sad and upset. It would have been nice to see Barbeena and Haji Mushtaq live a few days of their life peacefully but with Baraan’s entry, that might change. However, this will also add another dimension to this story which is not going to be easy to handle but I have faith in Zafar Mairaj. He has handled everything logically and intelligently so far. I am waiting to watch where the story goes from here.

Are you watching Kabli Pulao? Please share your views.

Kabli Pulao is an exceptional drama that showcases the remarkable talent and dedication of the entire team. It has it all; captivating storytelling, masterful direction, and outstanding performances. The exceptional on-screen chemistry not just between the leading actors but every single actor involved elevates the level of Kabli Pulao like no other. This drama has been flawlessly executed from the start till now and this could not have been possible without the perfect coordination between the cast, crew, and the technical team. The visuals and camera work along with the intelligent use of the beautiful OST make Kabli Pulao a drama that is not just unique but also poignant.

This drama delves into complicated emotions with such depth and sincerity that you cannot help but feel for everyone involved. It also captures human emotions so authentically that you forget you are watching a drama. I am completely hooked to Kabli Pulao and I genuinely feel that this drama is a class apart. Also, I am truly glad that Kabli Pulao is getting the love and attention it deserves from the viewers. This goes to prove that quality content always captures viewers’ attention and the public wants to watch such dramas.

Love’s Unexpected Journey

These past few episodes have been so eventful that I actually could not write a review without finding out first how this new turn in the story culminates. This week Haji sahab and Barbeena won everyone’s approval. Ayesha took the lead and made decisions that her parents could not. In these 3 weeks, Haji sahab and Barbeena both have undergone character development. Haji sahab’s character development was shown in the most subtle yet impactful manner. This is one of those characters that won me over right from the first episode and I knew I was in for an unforgettable ride. I can now say after all these weeks that Kabli Pulao superseded my expectations. In this particular episode, the embarrassment that Haji sahab felt was translated on-screen skillfully by Muhammad Ehteshamuddin. From locking himself in his room to failing to make eye contact Haji sahab’s state of mind was conveyed so well by these situations and gestures. Even though he knew this was going to be a difficult route, this time around Mushtaq made this decision himself. When he entered into nikkah earlier, he was left with no choice. For the first time, he chose to stay with Barbeena even though he was not even sure why he did so.

The guilt he felt later on was conveyed perfectly through dialogues and situations which made his state of mind crystal clear. My favorite scenes from this particular episode were Haji sahab’s trembling hands welcoming Barbeena into his life and his brother giving him his approval through that meaningful gesture. There are few dramas in which every character and scene leaves a lasting impression and Kabli Pulao is one of them. Therefore, it is not easy to choose a favorite scene from an episode but these two really stood out for me.

Haji sahab and Barbeena’s unique and extraordinary connection does not adhere to traditional norms. The circumstances under which these two entered into a nikkah were anything but typical. Everything that has happened since then has been one surprise after the other. There is so much to fall in love with. Barbeena’s innocence, her humility, authenticity, sincerity empathy, dedication, and top it all her strengths make her an on-screen character that will be remembered for a long time. The way the relationship dynamics between these two characters keep on changing depending on the situation and circumstances has been the most interesting element of this track. The exemplary precision with which Sabeena Farooq has portrayed Barbeena’s character on-screen is a testament to her dedication to her craft.

The Women in Haji Sahab’s Life

It is amazing how the connection Haji sahab shares with all the women in his life has been the highlight of this drama. Even though he was unmarried for the longest time, there are so many women who hold him dear and look out for him. Ayesha definitely tops the list! Haji sahab’s sister takes second place. Zubaida respects and loves Haji sahab more than his own brother does. Shamim might have made a huge mistake but her feelings for Haji sahab are as genuine as that of any other female I mentioned. And of course, then there is Barbeena, a girl who just entered Haji sahab’s life but is already shaping it up in so many ways. All these wonderfully penned-down female characters and the kind of connection they share with Haji sahab show the strength of females in such a unique manner. And then there is Haji sahab who even on the most important day of his life couldn’t help but notice the sadness on his sister’s face. He went and talked to Ghaffar as soon as he could. Even though some of the things he said were highly inappropriate Haji Mushtaq did not react at all because he knew what was at stake.

Ayesha’s dialogues were used intelligently in this particular episode to voice what Haji sahab could not say himself. It is true; he has not been able to accept his relationship with Barbeena, something that Ayesha understands better than anyone else. She is an intelligent young girl who arranged this entire function to make it more ‘real’ for her aba ji in the hope that it would be the brand new start he deserves. Ayesha and Haji sahab’s bond was used intelligently by the writer to take the main track in a completely different direction. Ayesha’s connection with her aba ji is wholesome. The confidence given to her by her aba ji is now being used by her to protect him. Her love for Haji Mushtaq shines through in all her gestures and she does everything so unapologetically that there is no room for criticism. It is amazing how the women in Haji sahab’s life are both a source of conflict and resolution at the same time. All these amazing actresses have done complete justice to their respective roles. The credit for that obviously goes to the writer and director as well. The writer gave them characters that have room for performance and the director’s vision made all the difference as well.

Final Remarks

Kabli Pulao is the finest example of perfect storytelling. Everyone involved has given this project their best. This drama explores so many different relationships in such a way that the viewers cannot help but connect to each one of these tracks. Haji sahab and Barbeena obviously take the lead but even the side characters make their presence felt. The director, Kashif Nisar, has yet again captured the nuances and subtleties of human connections on screen effectively. The way the flashback scenes were used to add more clarity to the narrative and show Barbeena’s inner conflict was pure genius. Muhammad Ehteshamuddin’s performance in Kabli Pulao is nothing short of a masterclass in acting. Sabeena Farooq’s riveting performance makes falling in love with Barbeena so much easier. Each one of the supporting actors shines in the role they are playing and it is impossible to pick a favorite performance. You might like a character more than others but each one of the performances is equally impressive.

Please feel free to share your thoughts about this masterpiece.

Kabli Pulao continues to consistently surprise and engage. Much like a plate of Kabli Pulao, the dish the drama is named after, each episode has a distinctive and unexpected flavor that keeps its viewers entertained. This drama continues to tantalize its viewers with a blend of suspense, drama, and unexpected twists. The main track’s emotional depth definitely takes precedence over all other elements. In this latest episode, in particular, the viewers were treated to many poignant moments, as the two endearing and affectionate protagonists were pushed into uncharted territory. These characters which the viewers cherish and find relatable, were confronted with circumstances that tested the limits of their love and resilience. These shifts in this track although upsetting have added a layer of vulnerability to the personalities of both Haji Mushtaq and Barbeena and showed another side of their character and relationship. It also makes you wonder where their story will go from here and how these latest developments will impact their relationship.

New Challenges

Haji Mushtaq and Barbeena have made some really difficult decisions through the course of this drama. Both of them have proven so far that they are strong individuals who stand by their decisions and honor them. Haji Mushtaq has lived his life with a remarkable sense of dignity and grace. Also, he never really wanted much for himself in life, he always lived for others. It is nothing short of ironic that now that he has found someone who has altered his life in the most unexpected ways, he lacks the energy and physical strength to embark on this new chapter of his life the way he would have wanted to. Haji Mushtaq has had to constantly adapt and navigate especially after he entered into a Nikkah with Barbeena therefore tonight when he lost his cool and focus, it made perfect sense.

Barbeena’s journey has been an extraordinary one, marked by experiences that have tested her resilience multiple times. She witnessed war, lost family members, and had to restart her life all over again. But she has shown remarkable strength throughout. Tonight, when she broke down it was primarily because she could not see the man she loved hurting. Right from the beginning, just like Haji Mushtaq, Barbeena has also been shown as someone who lives for others. Barbeena derives her purpose and fulfillment from selflessly serving others but at the same time, she holds her integrity and well-being dear.

Every time their relationship has been tested because of the people around them, Barbeena has risen to the occasion more than Haji Mushtaq. Haji Mushtaq has always ‘initially’ given a response that highlighted his insecurities more than any other. These insecurities and vulnerabilities make his character more realistic and add depth to this relationship. Barbeena and Haji Mushtaq continue to grow as individuals as well especially when times are tough.

In this episode the challenge they faced was familiar but it was on a completely different scale. This entire conflict was presented convincingly on screen keeping the emotional element of the track alive, as always. Haji Mushtaq’s insecurities made sense but I could not help but question Barbeena’s approach. She was not just willing to show her face on social media but also felt amused by those messages. Did the writer intend to portray her ‘personal development’ in this episode through these scenes and situations? I am waiting to find out because it appeared as though her choices and behaviors did not align seamlessly with the established development of her character up to this point.

We all know that Barbeena is undeniably innocent in some aspects; however, she has also demonstrated wisdom in numerous other aspects of her life. Therefore, I found it difficult to relate to her naivety with respect to the kind of attention she was getting. Perhaps this was the writer’s method of portraying her limited wisdom due to her age but then we have seen Barbeena choosing Haji Sahab over a much younger individual only because she could see who could actually be well-suited for her given the situation. She also knew that she was not ready to fall in love and start a relationship therefore an older person would be the right match. There have been so many other instances when she made decisions that showed her wisdom but tonight we saw a naïve side of her which was difficult to relate to.

By the end of this episode, Hajra’s documentary encapsulated the profound influence of social media, and how it impacts even those individuals who are not seeking attention. This was the surprise that presented an important message which is the need of the hour. However, what Hajra did was also exploitation therefore, I am not sure if she was the best person to put this message forward. The idea behind this development was definitely right but the way it was executed was not ideal. Does Hajra’s message absolve her of responsibility? This was an important development that could have been handled in a better way. This documentary is going to change a great deal and as the preview of the next episode showed it will lead Haji Mushtaq’s family to him.

What Stood Out

Just like every week, what truly stood out in this episode were those poignant and heart-warming moments that make Haji Mushtaq and Barbeena an unforgettable on-screen couple. Barbeena handing over her first pay to her husband was the best scene from this episode. This symbolized not only her love and commitment but also her unwavering support for their partnership. Also, the way she reacted when she found out this was ‘her’ money was one of the many heartfelt moments in this episode. In this episode, Haji Mushtaq and Barbeena’s struggles stood out individually as well as partners in this relationship. Muhammad Ehteshamuddin and Sabeena Farooq’s exceptional performances as well as their remarkable on-screen chemistry combine to create a viewing experience that is truly memorable and engaging. They are the heart and soul of Kabli Pulao.

The conversation between Ghaffar and Hakim also stood out because it revealed the unspoken truth about Haji Mushtaq’s character. The hakim spelled out loud how Barbeena’s presence had changed Haji Mushtaq’s life and also spoke the truth which has shaped Haji Mushtaq’s life especially the present events. If it weren’t for the pressure from Ghaffar, Haji Mushtaq, and Barbeena could have lived a comfortable life in their house with the family.

The way Hajra’s documentary covered Haji Mushtaq and Barbeena’s story also stood out even though I did not completely agree with how Hajra decided to share her views publicly without asking for permission.

The Side Tracks

I honestly feel that the pace of the drama could have been better if the focus stayed on the main track and the other tracks did not get so much screen time. Since Kabli Pulao has more than 30 episodes, I am guessing we will be seeing a lot more of Ghaffar and Shammo’s unappealing track in the upcoming episodes as well. These two played a crucial role in moving Haji Mushtaq and Barbeena’s track to a different direction but does it really need this much screen time? For instance, Ghaffar’s efforts to bribe Illyas lacked value, these scenes failed to hold my interest in an otherwise interesting episode. Similarly, I don’t find Illyas’ tracks or scenes particularly interesting. I am certain these characters will continue to play an important role in moving the main plot forward but they are not the most engaging element of the drama and disrupt the flow of the main narrative. On the other hand, Ayesha is one of the most likable supporting characters, benefiting from precisely the right amount of screen time that sustains her charm. Shamim is another supporting character that retains its appeal because she has never been given unnecessary screen time.

Final Remarks

Haji Mushtaq and Barbeena’s story continues to hold my interest because of its uniqueness and unpredictability. The promo for the next episode piqued my curiosity even more. Barbeena and Baran will also meet in the next episode; this will open up a world of endless possibilities. I can’t wait to tune into Kabli Pulao next week.

Did you watch this episode? Do share your views.

Kabli pulao remains a compelling narrative with depth. Haji Sahab and Barbeena’s unexpected encounter has now blossomed into a mutually fulfilling relationship. The most interesting element of Haji Sahab and Barbeena’s track is that these two individuals had never comprehended the depth of their need for one another until they had the opportunity to personally witness the magic that their union so profoundly possesses. Prior to their encounter, they were living separate lives, each unaware of the void the other could fill. However, as fate brought them together, they embarked on a journey of self-discovery and mutual understanding, ultimately unveiling the unexpected magic that their relationship had in store for them.

Haji Sahab and Barbeena – Soulmates

The remarkable acting prowess displayed by Sabeena Farooq and Muhammad Ehteshamuddin has been nothing short of transformative for the narrative. In their roles, the stark contrast in age and outward appearances between the two becomes inconsequential. Their performances are a testament to their undeniable chemistry, compelling you to peer beyond the surface. As their characters evolve within the storyline you are more convinced than ever that these two are soul mates. With every scene they share, their performances deepen the conviction that destiny has brought these two individuals together in a way that defies societal norms and expectations, creating an authentic and powerful portrayal of soulmates.

Haji Mushtaq and Barbeena’s dinner with Hajra and Asad was pleasantly overshadowed by Haji Sahab’s open-mindedness and warmth. This unexpected turn of events, in retrospect, seemed almost inevitable given Haji Sahab’s character. Barbeena, despite her best efforts, found it challenging to conceal her astonishment throughout the meeting since there were so many ‘surprises’ in store. Haji Sahab’s refreshing personality and genuine open-mindedness caught his guests off guard.

Haji Sahab’s willingness to accept the difference between them and his ability to empathize with the young couple’s situation immediately put them at ease. This meeting also highlighted the theme of generational contrasts within the drama. It became evident that sometimes, the older generation can surprise the younger one with their progressive attitudes and capacity for acceptance. Haji Sahab’s open-mindedness served as a poignant reminder that preconceived notions and stereotypes should not be hastily applied to individuals, regardless of their age or background.

Favorite Scene

The most heartwarming moment in this particular episode undoubtedly centered around Haji Sahab’s mention of Baraan, accompanied by the heartfelt explanation behind his curiosity. This conversation added another layer of depth to the narrative, revealing the emotional core of these characters. As Haji Sahab opened up about his continued inquiries about Baraan, the reason behind his persistence resonated profoundly. He wasn’t just inquiring about Baraan out of ‘curiosity’; his motivation was driven by a genuine concern for Barbeena’s happiness. This unexpected revelation highlighted the depths of Haji Sahab’s love for his wife, emphasizing that his primary goal was her contentment and well-being.

Barbeena’s response to Haji Sahab’s query was equally touching. Her willingness to move on from her past and embrace her present demonstrated her growth as a character. Her honesty, and the refusal to fabricate her feelings, indicated her respect for their relationship’s foundation of trust and transparency. Haji Mushtaq’s observation about Barbeena’s wisdom while he was talking to his hosts at the dinner table was another interesting addition. It underscored the notion that wisdom in a relationship often transcends age or experience. Barbeena’s emotional intelligence makes their bond even stronger.

Ultimately, the exchange between Haji Sahab and Barbeena served as a beautiful reminder of the essence of a successful marriage. It emphasized that at the core of any meaningful relationship lies the mutual desire to bring happiness to one another. This heartfelt moment highlighted the love and understanding between Haji Sahab and Barbeena, making it one of the best scenes in the episode.

Baraan’s Entry – More Surprises

I have to admit, I wasn’t eagerly anticipating Baraan’s entry. Up until this point, I had this misconception that he was Barbeena’s husband, which had created a sense of apprehension. However, to my surprise, that does not seem to be the case. Also surprisingly enough, I found Baraan’s character to be quite likable.

What struck me most was Baraan’s profound love for Barbeena and his overall persona. With every scene, my feelings towards this character changed and by the end of this episode I no longer saw him as a ‘threat’. On the contrary, he is another character who is deeply entangled in the complex web of emotions, desperately searching for his own happiness.

The fact that Baraan was already aware of Barbeena’s marital status was another surprise. It made the narrative even more engaging and captivating. This unexpected twist sheds light on the complexity of the characters and their relationships, creating a storyline that is anything but predictable. It’s a testament to the depth and intricacy of the drama’s storytelling, keeping viewers thoroughly engaged and eager to see how these characters’ journeys unfold.

After watching this latest episode, I felt I needed to watch the earlier one in which Barbeena shared the details of her love story with Ayesha and her sisters. Rewatching those scenes actually deepened my empathy for Baraan and made me relate even more to his love for Barbeena. It became increasingly evident that Baraan, much like many of the other characters, is a victim of the circumstances that have shaped his life. His character transcends the typical archetype of being merely a third tier in a love triangle. Instead, he emerges as a multifaceted individual, just like Shamim, who is dealing with the complexities of love, longing, and the unpredictable twists of fate. The parallels between Baraan and Shamim’s characters showcase the depth of storytelling in this drama.

Abdullah Farhatullah’s performance in this episode was yet another one of the many pleasant surprises. He skillfully embodied his character, effectively conveying Baraan’s intelligence, heartbreak, and resilience all in one compelling performance. It’s truly gratifying to watch him make a comeback that will redefine his acting career.

Weaving the Magic

Kabli Pulao is the perfect example of the art of crafting compelling narratives, where all the essential elements of drama converge seamlessly to create a masterpiece. First and foremost, the plot is a testament to meticulous storytelling. It weaves together intricate threads of emotion, conflict, and suspense. The pace of the drama has been perfect throughout, allowing the story to unfold at just the right tempo, revealing secrets and surprises at precisely the right moments. Each character’s journey is thoughtfully constructed, enabling viewers to empathize with their struggles and celebrate their triumphs.

The performances by the cast, led by Sabeena Farooq and Muhammad Ehteshamuddin, are nothing short of exceptional. Their ability to breathe life into their characters is a testament to their talent, creating a genuine emotional connection between the audience and the story. Their chemistry and nuanced portrayals contribute significantly to Kabli Pulao’s success.

The direction and cinematography are equally commendable. The choice of camera angles, lighting, and visual aesthetics adds depth and dimension to the storytelling, enhancing the overall viewing experience. The music and soundtrack, carefully selected to complement the drama’s mood, evoke a range of emotions, highlighting key moments in the narrative.

Final Remarks

Kabli Pualo continues to be a harmonious symphony of writing, acting, direction, and cinematography, orchestrated to perfection. It is a testament to the art of drama-making, where all the elements converge to create an unforgettable and emotionally resonant experience for the audience. This drama shows that drama makers do not need to bank on stereotypes to get the public’s attention.

The preview of the next episode was so intriguing that it is going to be difficult to wait another week to watch it. Haji Sahab and Barbeena are going to be internet sensations perhaps without their consent. I am waiting to find out how this development impacts their journey. It seems as if this will cause more problems for them. Some of the scenes from the OST also suggest that they will end up being business partners as well. I can’t wait to watch what Zafar Mairaj has in store for us next.

Are you watching Kabli Pulao? Share your views.

Writer: Zafar Mairaj
Director: Kashif Nisar
Schedule: Every Tuesday 8pm on Green TV Entertainment

After masterpieces such as Dumpukht, Inkaar, and Lashkara, the dynamic and exceptionally talented writer/director duo is back with another drama that started off on an extremely promising note. Kabli Pulao’s first episode, just like its title, was a combination of many different ingredients added in the right proportions to make the perfect final product. It also had its own distinctive flavor exactly like the dish it is named after.

 Kabli Pulao a Must-Watch

The unfamiliar yet appealing characters coupled with the most unexpected initial storyline made Kabli Pulao truly stand out among all the new dramas that have aired on Green TV Entertainment so far. Impressive performances, perfect execution, well-written dialogues, and a gripping plot made Kabli Pulao’s first episode thoroughly engaging. This episode definitely had “Raqeeb Se” vibes even though the plot and the characters are entirely different. The opening episode of Kabli Pulao belonged to Haji Mushtaq, Muhammad Ehteshamuddin, who I am certain, will give every present-day hero out there a run for his money.

Haji Mushtaq

This first episode focused a great deal on the main protagonist Haji Mushtaq who was originally from Punjab but was presently in Mardan with his jamaat. Haji Mushtaq’s character was introduced with the utmost clarity. The majority of the conversations and scenes gave new information about Haji’s character. His background, his beliefs as well as his relationships with those close to him were revealed through different conversations. All these conversations were to-the-point and added something or the other to the viewers’ knowledge.

Interestingly enough, Haji Sahib has quite a few interesting aspects of his personality. While he is a simple and religious individual who does not care much for worldly things, he values his relationships and holds them really dear. Maa ro pari hey hamari and so many other such dialogues about his dear niece Ayesha instantly revealed what kind of a relationship these two individuals had. This was such an interesting conversation which showed what kind of a bond he had with his siblings and their children. Perhaps, that was the reason why he never felt he needed to get married. This was such a refreshing element of this story. It is always great seeing a character who is both religious and soft.

Haji Mushtaq’s religious and balanced personality was reflected through so many other scenes as well. Not once did he come across as someone who was gullible or naïve. Nazr nayaz mein bs itni tasali honi chahyeh keh paise haq halal ke hoon was one of the finest dialogues in this particular episode that summed up the essence of his thought process while helping someone in need. Later on, when Abdullah’s sister insisted on entering into a nikkah with him only, his annoyance was translated on-screen impeccably by Muhammad Ehteshamuddin. All of a sudden the Lahori and Punjabi accents took over which came across as natural and made the scene even more relatable. The convincing manner in which this nikkah finally took place was the most satisfying part of this episode because this was such an important development.

Because Haji’s background was presented so well on-screen through dialogue and the flashback scene, it was easy to understand why he could not refuse this widow who was a complete stranger to him. He was doing this to save her because there was no other way. Barbeena and Haji’s equation in the scenes after the nikkah during the journey were some of the most enjoyable and cute scenes in this first episode. His honest question regarding Barbeena’s behavior and her equally short and honest reply was a scene that guaranteed that this union will be one-of-a-kind in so many ways. The dua Barbeena gave Haji when he gave her water and what the driver said about it was such a good way of introducing the culture and traditions of Afghanistan which might be unknown to many.

Strong female characters

Other than Haji Mushtaq’s character, what appealed to me the most were the strong female characters in the drama. Each one of these characters had an appeal and a definite presence. Even though our leading lady showed her face only in the last scene and had a story full of misfortunes, her strong personality was clearly visible from the one decision she took and stood by. She refused to marry anyone else and made sure she decided who she would eventually enter into a nikkah with. That was a really bold move even if it involved pleading to Haji Mushtaq. Also, she did not hold back while expressing herself throughout. Even though she was in a burqa, you could tell that she was intelligently observing everything.

Ayesha and all the other women in Haji Mushtaq’s brother’s household were equally empowered in their own way. Ayesha put her foot down and made his beloved uncle reach in time for the engagement. She openly spoke her mind and even chose an outfit which she wanted to wear completely ignoring all the opposition. Ayesha’s mother also did not come across as a ‘typical’ character from a Pakistani drama. The sisters did not even pay heed to their brother’s advice regarding nach gana. Everything about all these women was refreshing and wholesome. Even though these characters did not take center stage in this particular episode but they definitely made their presence felt.

Final Remarks

This first episode Kabli Pulao starting from the first scene till the last one was just as flavorful as the dish the drama is named after. The only scene that did not work for me was the last one. However, I did love the way Haji Mushtaq looked at his dulhan, he was clearly ‘smitten’ but of course, he does not know that yet ;) Sabeena Farooq’s look and expressions in that last scene truly made me look forward to more of her in the upcoming episodes. Even someone like Haji Mustafa was afraid of being judged when he entered into Nikkah with this woman, it remains to be seen how his family will actually react when they find out who Barbeena is. Will he tell them the truth or wait? I am eagerly waiting to find out.

Did you fall in love with this first episode Kabli Pulao too? Share your thoughts.