“Aakhir Kab Tak” is a show that is genuinely worth watching. It isn’t spoken about as much as some of Hum Tv’s other big projects these days, but it is equally deserving of the hype and attention that is enjoyed by “Parizaad” and “Hum Kahan Kay Sachay Thay,” all three shows offering quality along with unique stories. Starring Ushna Shah, Adeel Hussain, Srha Asghar, Haroon Shahid, Gul E Rana, Javeria Abbasi, Shahood Alvi and Azfar Rehman, this drama highlights the plight of a victim of sexual assault and how she overcomes her trauma, along with showing positive female role models in the form of Noor, played by Ushna Shah.
Episode 16 revolves around Fajar (Srha Asghar) and Saim’s (Haroon Shahid) relationship. The bond between this duo is getting stronger each day, made possible by Saim’s kindness, loyalty and understanding. However, Fajar also deserves credit as she’s beginning to trust Saim and confide in him, leaving little room in his mind for mistrust. While they certainly had a rocky start, Fajar and Saim’s marriage is proving to be a strong one, as well as a root-worthy relationship for the audience. However, the greatest detractor is Saim’s mother, Neelo (Sabahat Bukhari), who has completely turned against Fajar. Part of this is guilt – guilt for selecting a girl for her “perfect son” (who honestly is a little bit perfect) who is a bag of secrets and problems. While one would love for the entire world to be accepting and loving towards victims of trauma, that’s simply not the case in the real world and Neelo represents that mind-set. She dreamed of having a “normal” daughter-in-law who would laugh and interact with others in a socially appropriate way, but instead, she is horrified at how “ajeeb” (odd) Fajar is…..and adding to that, her Chachi just told Neelo that Fajar is also “characterless.” It’s difficult to be on board with such a visibly “evil” character like Neelo. But if one stops to think, would we, as general members of society, be as loving and accepting if in the same situation?
It’s here where Saim’s perfection does falter – but it’s due to wanting to be a good son as well. Neelo wants Fajar out of the house, so Saim obliges. However, it’s clear from his attitude, along with that of his father and sister’s, that Neelo will be forced to reconsider her stance. And while this is nice to see already in progress…..the “real” secret has yet to be revealed, that of Fajar’s assault by Professor Zafar (Azfar Rehman). When this is revealed, will Saim remain by Fajar’s side? Or will Fajar confide in him in the same way she did about Basam?
The entire cast is doing a wonderful job, particularly in the last few episodes. While Srha Asghar and Haroon Shahid are obviously doing well, the supporting cast is equally as good. Noor, played by Ushna Shah, takes a backseat this week, along with Adeel Hussain (though it will be great to see them in full force next week!). But Javeria Abbasi as Safia, Shahood Alvi as Ehtisham and Gul E Rana as Daadi truly stand out this week. It’s a real treat to see Safia breaking out of her shell and realizing her own self worth – and while we can’t hear Ehtisham’s thoughts, Shahood Alvi’s performance puts across that Ehtisham is slowly becoming a changed man, realizing Safia, Noor and Fajar’s value in his life. Overall, “Aakhir Kab Tak” continues to shine as a sensitive portrayal of trauma and what women endure in a patriarchal society, while also offering hope to its viewers in the form of empowerment.