“Fitoor” is a show that’s interesting to watch and, for that reason, it does manage to pull in high ratings. And yet, is the content being offered really anything original? Written by Zanjabeel Asim and directed by Siraj Ul Haq, it stars Faysal Qureshi, Hiba Bukhari, Wahaj Ali and Kiran Haq in lead roles. Last week, we saw Mehmal put her plan into action, attempting to win back Haider after leaving her own husband.
The theme of episode 14 is Dilnasheen and her inability to see what’s in store for her future. As Haider continues to spend time with Mehmal’s daughter, hoping to cheer her up, Mehmal uses this as her “in” to wiggle back into Haider’s life. It’s apparent that Haider loves children and would have been a father himself had he gotten married at the “right” time. However, he has spent all this time hung up on Mehmal – and it’s not lost on Mehmal how awkward and formal Haider and Dilnasheen’s relationship is. Of course, this is the perfect moment for her to attack and make her move on recreating her spot in Haider’s life.
All of his points to Dilnasheen’s unwillingness to build a bond and relationship with her husband. Yes, as viewers, we have all been rooting for Hamza and recognize that she is having difficultly not only forgetting him, but also accepting a new life partner. And yet, has Dilnasheen ever shown any indication of wanting to get a divorce and run away with Hamza? Definitely not. In fact, she has resigned herself to the fact that Haider is her husband. So why continue to fracture the relationship with the sort of behavior she has been demonstrating towards Haider? She has been jumping at the slightest touch or even when he comes near her, not even speaking to him or carrying on normal conversation – and she expects this man to remain loyal and committed to her? Why? How?
Haider’s mother (Ismat Zaidi) can see the writing on the wall and passes the message on to Dilnasheen’s mother (Saba Hameed), asking her to explain the necessity for Dilnasheen to care for her husband and soften his heart towards her. While Dilnasheen’s mother has been a negative presence in the show throughout, this is the first time one finds themselves agreeing with her. She can see the silly, ridiculous, childish way in which Dilnasheen is treating her marriage. Fortunately, after this lecture and seeing Haider with Mehmal, Dilnasheen finally realizes that she can be replaced – and pulls up her socks to win over her husband. She finally begins trying to connect with Haider and Haider is seen being highly appreciative of the change. Unfortunately, Mehmal is there to continue sparking misunderstandings between the two.
What’s really illogical about this show is that Haider and his mother must have other relatives. Considering Haider and Mehmal’s past history, not only would Haider’s mother want her out of the house, but another relative would certainly have taken her in instead. Haider and Mehmal’s relationship was not a secret. Regardless of interesting, it must be said that, at present, “Fitoor” is a typical story of a woman forced into marrying a man against her will and then being forced to engage in a battle with another woman for her own husband’s love. This isn’t innovative or exciting. Even though Faysal Qureshi’s Haider is a sweet character, he’s headed down that dubious path. Can Wahaj Ali’s Hamza please make an appearance again and make this show worthwhile?