“Fitoor” is a show with a story that has potential to be gripping, but unfortunately, it’s the over-the-top presentation, irritating characters and forced situations that are making it a show that’s difficult to digest. Written by Zanjabeel Asim and directed by Siraj Ul Haq, it stars Faysal Qureshi, Hiba Bukhari, Wahaj Ali and Kiran Haq in lead roles. As we’ve seen, Haider and Dilnasheen are both having a hard time forming a bond post-marriage and now, to further complicate matters, Mehmal, Haider’s ex, has now moved in with the couple post her separation.
In episode 13, Haider (Faysal Qureshi) and Dilnasheen’s (Hiba Bukhari) marriage continues to be in an awkward place, with the blame now resting on Dilnasheen’s shoulders as she makes little effort to bond with her husband. Dilnasheen and Haider have been married long enough to where Dilnasheen’s behavior now comes across as irritating and one almost wouldn’t blame Haider for having an affair with Mehmal. She chose her family over Hamza, so since she made that choice, now she should make her marriage work – and so it’s beyond irritating to see her jump in discomfort every time Haider attempts to touch her. How long will Haider remain understanding, especially considering Dilnasheen also refuses to confide in him? Well, the answer is in plain sight – not for much longer.
While Mehmal (Kiran Haq) confides in Haider’s mother (Ismat Zaidi), his mother makes it clear that Mehmal can stay here, but should not consider it her home and visits Ansar (Tipu Sharif) to request him to take her back. However, both Haider and his mother are shocked at Ansar’s words as he openly professes to not caring for Mehmal and while leaving was her choice, it’s clear that he could care less. This would be shocking for any family member to hear, but it’s particularly jolting for Haider, who has been pining for Mehmal all these years. The idea of Mehmal being trapped in this loveless marriage for so long is not something that’s easy for him to hear. Coming to this track, the advise and attitude Haider’s mother has in this situation is disturbingly backwards. Mehmal has admitted to being neglected entirely in her marriage and Ansar has said that he doesn’t care if she returns – and yet, she continues to push for Mehmal’s return to her “marriage.” While we, as viewers, recognize why she doesn’t want Mehmal in the house under Haider’s nose, her voice of words do not sit well.
Of course, Dilnasheen feels this as well and, considering the circumstances under which she got married, she can sympathize with Mehmal. And so, she convinces Haider to allow Mehmal to stay – which is, no matter how well-intentioned, yet another foolish move by Dilnasheen and it’s becoming difficult to sympathize with her at all. She makes terrible decision after terrible decision. Mehmal, on her part, does not mince words or hide her feelings and makes it clear to Haider that she wants to reconcile with him, now finally understanding and appreciating his love for her.
The story has reached a repulsive point fairly quickly. Haider now has his new wife and his old lover under one roof and while he professes his love for his wife in front of Mehmal when Dilnasheen is present, he also allows Mehmal to rest her head on his shoulder and does not make his stance as a married man clear enough to rebuff Mehmal. She believes she still has a chance – and that’s on Haider. Honestly, Wahaj Ali is desperately missed at this point, Hamza being a shining point of this show. Otherwise, the other three characters are so messed up and unlikable at this point, it’s difficult to be invested in what’s happening. Dilnasheen will continue to act like a fool in the upcoming episode, leaving an open spot for Mehmal to slip into. Watching “Fitoor” is like watching a trainwreck – it’s not enjoyable, but it’s also difficult to look away.
