“Dil Na Umeed Tou Nahin” has not been on the receiving end of heavy publicity or promotions. The OST has not been playing on every channel and the show itself is being aired on TV One, a channel that does not receive as much hype as the general three “biggies” (Hum TV, ARY and Geo). And yet, despite it all, this drama is one that’s highly anticipated by Pakistani Drama audiences due to the great star cast, the intensely different storyline and Kashf Foundation’s involvement. 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.
Episode one isn’t fast-paced nor is it one that lays out the story for the viewer immediately. Rather, it introduces viewers to several characters in different environments and from different backgrounds. Coming to the prominent characters in the show, we are introduced to Sumbal (Yumna Zaidi), a young “working woman” who seems to be going through the motions of her life, having made peace with her fate and yet is visibly disillusioned with life. Zulfi (Omair Rana) seems to be a well-wisher of hers, but are those good wishes attached to conditions? That’s not yet clear. We are a also introduced to a young girl who appears to be Sumbal’s past, judging from the previews. Young Jamshed is also introduced, a little boy who has been through a lot not only at home, but is being bullied in school as well due to his socioeconomic conditions.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J7a20Fdd4-4&ab_channel=TVOne
It’s difficult to sum up the storylines in the first episode as the director and writer haven’t revealed too many cards all at once – which is appreciated. There are many topics that are discussed in the first episode, whether it be human trafficking, child abuse, adults taking advantage of their power over children, bullying, or even the expectations placed on families trying to marry off their daughters. The most beautiful thing about “Dil Na Umeed Toh Nahin” from the get-go is its presentation. While after watching the previews, there were many comments on the budget and low production values. However, after watching the first episode, this earthy, realistic and “ordinary” presentation is definitely going to work for this story.
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Yumna Zaidi, Omair Rana and Samiya Mumtaz stand out as the star performers in this episode. Their characters manage to make an impact. Credit must also be given to the child performers, both the little boy who plays Jamshed and the little village girl (who is assumed to be young Sumbal). “Dil Na Umeed Toh Naheen” doesn’t bother to take off to a roaring start, rather it has left the audience wanting more and for more of this storyline to be revealed. This will (hopefully) be a show that will keep us hooked for the months to come.