To say “Dobara” is winning praise unanimously would be an understatement. Even those who do not regularly watch dramas are tuning in to “Dobara” to see how Mehru’s life takes shape post the death of her (controlling) husband. Starrign Hadiqa Kiani and Bilal Abbas in lead roles, they are supported by Sakina Samo, Usama Khan, Maheen Siddiqui, Javed Sheikh, Nabeel Zuberi, Zoya Nasir, Angeline Malik, Shabbir Jan and many others, while the story has been written by Sarwat Nazir and directed by Danish Nawaz.
In episode 9, Mahir (Bilal Abbas Khan) is still in the hospital and his friend is taking full advantage of Mehru’s (Hadiqa Kiani) financial help. Not only is he using the money for his own comfort, he also encourages Mahir to avail all opportunities available to him through Mehru. Fortunately, Mahir appears disturbed by this suggestion, thinking instead about how much his presence in Mehru’s life has disturbed her, promising her that he will return the money. It’s clear that Mahir is still deeply in love with Narmeen, who has already moved on. But more than Narmeen, he feels deeply betrayed by his parents and their lack of compassion. Children are so important to their parents and here, Mahir has not only been disowned, but even at his worst, his parents have not come to see him. Of course, it’s a different situation that they are not aware of his condition, but Mahir does not realize this. Bilal Abbas Khan is the stand-out performer this week as Mahir seriously begins to think about where his life is headed. Bilal is always a star performer, an actor who understands his “assignment,” but he is out-doing himself here. In this vulnerable state, will Mahir take steps to better his future by betraying Mehru? Or will he be honest with her with his intentions/thought process? One can only hope for the latter, as Mehru only deserves happiness.
Ibtisam (Javed Sheikh) and Phupo (Sakina Samo) continue to bring out the laughs in this episode as Phupo pushes Ibtisam and Mehru together once again. Ibtisam is the exact opposite of what Mehru would want in a life partner, but Phupo pushes him to impress her. What’s sweet here is that despite Ibtisam’s health issues, his fear of driving in Pakistan and even his small car accident, Mehru proves what a sweet, genuine, kind individual she is. Not even once does she make Ibtisam feel badly, particularly after the car accident when Affan (Usama Khan) rips into him for damaging the car. Hadiqa Kiani is playing this role so beautifully, Mehru wins over the viewer with each action. She has our heart. Javed Sheikh and Sakina Samo up the laughter quotient with their antics, playing characters who are supposed to be “troublemakers,” but still bring a sense of entertainment. They are a joy to watch.
Zamin (Nabeel Zuberi) is the snake in the grass in this show. The way he has presented himself, not only to Mehru, but also Minaal (Maheen Siddiqui) is an active effort on his part. He is a man who is seen as responsible, mature and religious – a “good guy.” However, behind Mehru’s back, he is warding off contracts from her business and sending them to his own, building up his own business by destroying Mehru’s business credibility. He is a realistic character, someone who will appear to have your back, but will pull the rug out from underneath you. Nabeel Zuberi is doing a good job in his role. The audience can’t help but feel angry with Minaal, even though it’s clear that Zamin is playing her as well – but why would any daughter agree to “privacy” with her husband on her mother’s first birthday alone?
“Dobara” is one of the rare shows that has not stepped off track at any point so far. The story is brilliant while the pace continues to keep the audience hooked – and wanting more at the end of each episode. Bilal Abbas Khan, Hadiqa Kiani, Sakina Samo and Javed Sheikh are all doing a wonderful job and are leaving a strong impact. With Mahir now thinking about marriage, it is now highly awaited to see how and why Mahir will make this decision – and will Mehru agree?