There are a staggering six Ramadan dramas this year. “Very Filmy,” “Dil Pe Dastak,” “Ishqaway” and “Tere Mere Sapnay” are on the generally more popular channels, Hum TV and Har Pal Geo. However, one of the gems of this Ramadan season, “Chand Nagar” is airing on Bol Entertainment and has, through word of mouth, been gradually pulling in audiences for its unique storytelling. Starring Atiqa Odho, Javed Sheikh, Omair Rana, Aijaz Aslam, Hajra Yamin, Maha Hassan, Arez Ahmed, Raza Samo, Jenaan Hussain and many others, the story has been written by Zeeshan Junaid and directed by Yasra Rizvi.
The story follows Mrs. Khanum, played by Atiqa Odho, a widow who has a son working abroad. While the family tradition has always been to spend Ramadan together, her son is unable to get time off and, for the first time, Mrs. Khanum is confronted with the idea of spending Ramadan alone. She puts an ad out in the paper inviting guests to spend the month with her in her home. This brings in a multitude of characters including Maha Hassan as a runaway, Raza Samo and Fariya Hassan as a newly married couple, Arez Ahmed as a man trying to find himself and Hajra Yamin as a……robot?
What “Chand Nagar” sets out to do is both entertain and highlight the true meaning of Ramadan. Ramadan is about more than simply sitting at the table and eating a big meal at the end of the day. It’s about togetherness, kindness, sacrifice, resilience and charity. Atiqa Odho’s Mrs. Khanum represents all of this with her big heart. The story also highlights how Ramadan can be lonely for those without family during the month. It’s interesting to see these unique personalities coming together under one roof.
Ironically, “Chand Nagar” is oddly reminiscent of another show from earlier this year – “Working Women.” The concept of several stories and clashing personalities under one roof is similar, except “Chand Nagar” is a comedic tale and is Ramadan-based. The common link between the two shows? The director of both shows is Yasra Rizvi. We have to wonder if this is a coincidence or…..?
There are several great performances, first beginning with Atiqa Odho, who is the glue who holds the show together. Arez Ahmed is absolutely hilarious in his role with some of the best lines. Maha Hassan is a natural as always and it’s great to see Raza Samo in a role with more toned-down, mature comedy. The best part about “Chand Nagar” is that the comedy is not chaotic or over-the-top with the actors making loud expressions (a staple in Ramadan dramas lately). The comedy is subtle and humorous while still remaining down to earth. This one is worthwhile!