“Dil Na Umeed Tou Nahin” is a show that ventures more on the side of an artistic drama rather than mainstream and is also airing on TV one, meaning it’s not receiving the sort of promotion other shows receive. And yet, the star cast and the Kashf Foundation’s involvement have made it one to look forward to from the on-set. The show has been written by Amna Mufi, directed by Kashif Nisar and stars Yumna Zaidi, Wahaj Ali, Noman Ejaz, Samiya Mumtaz, Yasra Rizvi and Noor Ul Hassan in lead roles. The first episode started off on a strong note.
Episode 2 is equally as strong. The plight of “working women” is depicted so well. Each character associated with this storyline has a story, has depth and is more than just a woman in a modern-day brothel. These girls have made peace with their circumstances, but that does not mean they are immune to the grief and trauma experienced at the hands of these vulturous men surrounding them. The character of Pasha is heavily discussed in this episode by the girls as one of their own, Ramsha, is sent with him. It’s insinuated that Sumbal (Yumna Zaidi) has had experience with him before as she repeatedly calls him “paagal,” and is infuriated that another girl has been sent with him. When Ramsha arrives back after a long night, she has been badly beaten and psychologically traumatized. While the driver initially seems helpful towards the girls, it becomes clear how he’s the driving force in delivering these girls to these men. In a heart-wrenching scene, Ramsha locks herself in the bathroom and cries, terrified when she’s expected to see Pasha again – and the driver lashes her for her disobedience. These scenes are heavy, making one think past their biases and attitudes towards others and their experiences. This is driven home by the flashbacks with little Sumbal and her family growing up. There’s a beautiful scene where her father is shown rescuing baby Sumbal from a disastrous fate, choosing instead to bring her home and raise her as his own. Despite the heavy nature of this story, there are these beautiful moments that shine through like a ray of light.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J7a20Fdd4-4&t=181s&ab_channel=TVOne
Young Jamshed continues to face bullying at school and suffers at the hands of his family’s poverty. He is ridiculed both in school and isn’t shown any particular sort of affection at home. It’s clear that he has a bright mind, but there isn’t anyone to nurture it. The little boy playing this role is such an endearing actor that Jamshed is instantly lovable. It will be sweet to see him interact with young Sumbal in the next episode.
Dil Na Umeed Toh Nahin: The Pilot Episode Sets The Stage For an Intriguing Story
Overall, the episode is a stellar one. It’s rare that a show can be this slow in building pace and yet leaves the audience wanting more. This story is real in everything from the story to the way it has been shot. The cinematography, the earthy feel, the feeling of “home” is all present here, adding to the appeal of this drama. There’s a wonderful scene between Zulfi (Omair Rana) and Sumbal where the two engage in some flirtatious banter. It’s not clear if Zulfi is a good guy or not, but at present, he seems to genuinely like Sumbal and the chemistry between Yumna Zaidi and Omair Rana is fabulous. “Dil Na Umeed Toh Nahin” is simply art. There isn’t any other way to describe it. One can only hope the show continues in this way, because at present, it’s simply magic – despite dealing with very heavy topics.