“Aakhir Kab Tak” is a drama that depicts the sort of trauma women can face when coming from oppressive homes that don’t value their daughters. Focusing on two sisters, Noor and Fajar, we see that while Fajar becomes a victim of sexual assault due to her upbringing, Noor has emerged a fighter, a woman who will do what it takes not only to rise above her circumstances, but to pull her mother and sister out as well. Starring Ushna Shah, Srha Asghar, Haroon Shahid, Adeel Hussain, Azfar Rehman, Javeria Abbasi, Shahood Alvi, Gul E Rana and others, the story has been written by Radain Shah and directed by Syed Ali Raza Usama.
In episode 14, Fajar’s (Srha Asghar) mother-in-law is at her wits end with Fajar, wanting to get Saim (Haroon Shahid) and Fajar divorced, rectifying what she believes was her mistake. However, Saim stands firm beside his wife, stating that he wants to stay with her and build his life with her. However, his mother is simply unable to accept this relationship, particularly after discovering the pregnancy was a lie. However, there’s a wonderful scene between Saim and Fajar where the two embrace, indicating the level of trust Fajar now has in Saim – something she has never felt for any man. But will Saim stand strong with her when he finds out about her troubled past? Srha Asghar is doing a wonderful job as Fajar, pulling the audience in to her struggles.
Haroon Shahid’s Saim is a winning character on this show, one that really manages to stand out amongst some really great performances. But why is that? Saim is essentially an ideal husband, a man who not only cares for his wife who has come with a multitude of emotional and mental baggage, but also stands upright in protection for her. He fights for her with his own mother and stands firm in his relationship with her, one of love and respect – and he certainly does respect her despite the chaotic situations Fajr may be putting him through. Haroon Shahid has generally been relegated to side neglected hero type roles, so it’s wonderful to see him not only in a lead role, but also in one that is truly allowing him to shine – and set an example to men.
On the other end, Nasir (Adeel Hussain) finally bows down to Noor (Ushna Shah) and, in a dignified manner, admits his liking for her. Noor, suspicious of his intentions up until now, is impressed by his honest confession and accepts his friendship – but just friendship (for now). The dynamic between these two characters is wonderful, because they are on the same “level” in terms of their confidence and determination. This is not a man who would bog Noor down – and vice versa. Ushna Shah and Adeel Hussain are both fabulous. Noor continues to battle with her family both within the home and outside. However, it seems Basam will soon leave his parents in a mess, left to rely on Noor and her success when he wastes their money under the presentence of his education.
Of course, the highlight of the show is when Safia (Javeria Abbasi) finally, on Noor’s encouragement, finds her voice and decides to stand up for herself. Tired of being a punching bag, Safia lashes out at her mother-in-law, realizing that she tolerated all this due to her husband – who is no longer in any condition to say anything. Javeria Abbasi’s acting in this episode is applause-worthy and the viewer wants to do exactly that – applaud. “Aakhir Kab Tak” is one of those shows that has an intense storyline that does touch upon a social issue and yet, it’s so well-written and has great characters, leaving the audience waiting for the next episode with baited breath.
