“Dil Na Umeed Tou Nahin” is a show that is simply poetry in motion, a show that may not have the production values of shows on Hum TV, ARY or Geo, but makes up for it with its rustic presentation and engrossing themes that pull the viewer into this world – a world that’s based on a grim reality. Written by Amna Mufi and directed by Kashif Nisar, this drama stars Yumna Zaidi, Wahaj Ali, Noman Ejaz, Samiya Mumtaz, Yasra Rizvi and Noor Ul Hassan in lead roles. In this episode, both Allah Raakhi and Jamshed’s stories unfold further, letting us into their tragic world – while little Naheed’s world takes an unexpected turn.
Naheed and her mother (Samiya Mumtaz) have been struggling with the transition to a new school, expecting that Naheed’s fire within would be extinguished. Instead, the incredibly strict principal drops her hard exterior, seeing Naheed’s passion, and hires a coach for the young girl and allows her access to all the athletic equipment on the premises. This is an unexpected turn of events and it seems that now Naheed will have all the tools necessary to not only get a good education, but excel at sports and work towards her dreams. But for how long? With Shinwari once again filling Naheed’s father’s (Noor Ul Hassan) with negativitiy, now ranting against children storybooks (namely Cinderella), will he succeed in brainwashing the neighborhood against the government school this time? There’s something so uplifting about this story. Watching Naheed and her mother struggle against their social confines is difficult, but there’s light at the end of the tunnel in this story and it does appear that Naheed’s mother’s dreams will come true, her daughter set to do great things with her life.
With the issue of tomato missing, Allah Raakhi’s family strikes a deal with the landlady – in the form of Allah Raakhi’s marriage. While the audience has foreseen this and already put two and two together, this is the moment where it’s revealed that Allah Raakhi is Sumbal (Yumna Zaidi). Child marriage is an issue that continues to be prevalent in sections of society and Allah Raakhi’s situation is no less. While her father and grandmother are very much loving, her mother is more “practical” and sees the need for financial change. And so, Raakhi is “sold” to her new “husband.” Unfortunately, viewers are well-aware that Raakhi hasn’t been “married” at all, rather she has been sold to a brothel by her new husband. It’s here that Raakhi meets Madam and Savera (Yasra Rizvi) begins to care for her. What’s odd about this entire scenario is that this would mean Sumbal has been at the brothel for at least 10 years. It’s interesting to see that she has not yet let go of any notions of escaping (as Savera has). While Sumbal has comfort in the form of Savera, the doctor and Zulfi (Omair Rana), it’s clear to Sumbal that she only has their support as long as she behaves. With the exception of Savera, she cannot trust anyone as they are all a part of this interwoven business.
Yumna Zaidi is the star of this episode as Sumbal comes to terms with her past and present, shaken by Ramla’s death, which has caused her to fall ill. Sumbal has already been seen revolving against what’s expected of her, but now it seems she’s going to search for a means of escape. Yumna is perfect casting for this role and she’s giving one of her best performances. Jamshed is also seen struggling in jail, arrested after the robbery. It’s clear that Jamshed’s struggles will continue even after his release. While “Dil Na Umeed Toh Nahin” is a slow journey, it’s a beautiful one with the strength being the writing, the performances and, of course, the stories which depict the trials and tribulations of the lower and middle class.