There are some shows which deserve more attention and “Jindo” is one such Pakistani drama. A story of the plight of women in a society that’s not only patriarchal, but also the story of how the poor are oppressed and taken advantage of by those in power, “Jindo” strikes the audience right in the heart. One of the most difficult types of stories to watch are those where the powerful have free reign to take advantage of those in a vulnerable position. And yet, while this is the scenario in “Jindo,” it is so beautifully shot and performed, it’s difficult to look away. Written by Qurban Ali Rao, “Jindo” has been directed by Anjum Shahzad and stars Humaima Malik, Gohar Rasheed, Nazr Ul Hassan, Hajra Yamin, Saleem Mairaj, Samiya Mumtaz, Malik Raza, Mizna Waqas, Faraaz Ali and many others in an ensemble cast.
In episode 9, Hasrat (Gohar Rasheed) frames Jindo’s (Humaima Malik) sister for having an “affair” with one of his men. As a punishment, she’s forced to spend one night under the open sky – a dangerous punishment with Hasrat after her. When Jindo visits the “haveli” to beg for pardon, she is propositioned yet again by Daad Saeein (Nazr Ul Hassan) and we are taken into the past to Jindo’s “first night” at the haveli. It’s revealed that Jindo, in protest, had torn her own womb afterwards, her survival meant to show her resilience. Unfortunately, Jindo returns home without any good news – and a bleak future in sight.
Meanwhile, Fakeeray (Faraz Ali) and his company are arrested under false charges, but Bali comes to their rescue. Bali is a really sweet, endearing character as well, settled in the city, but his heart still attached to his friends from back home. Along with Bali is the character of Fakeeray. When “Jindo” first began, the character of Fakeeray felt like a buffoon, a joke of a “hero” with two women tussling over him – his wife and Shanno. However, as the story has moved forward, it’s Fakeeray who wins our hearts as a true hero. In the entire show, it’s Fakeeray who is a true innocent. He’s a man raised by women, a man who cares only for two things – the women in his life and food. And while he’s often used as relief from tense scenes, his innocence bringing a smile to our faces in scenes such as his buying chooriyan for his family……it’s those very scenes that trigger anxiousness for what’s to come. What will happen when Fakeeray finally makes it back home and that innocent excitement is shattered? Faraz Ali is an actor worth watching out for and is making a strong impression with this role.
Humaima Malik is the heart and soul of the show and is doing an excellent job as “Jindo.” That being said, this is truly an ensemble cast effort. Every actor from Gohar Rasheed as Hasrat to Nazr Ul Hassan as Daad Saeein, Ayesha Gul as Kajli, Hajra Yamin as Falak – all of these actors have come together to create these wonderful characters. “Jindo” is the sort of story that leaves the audience anxious ridden at the end of each episode, eagerly anticipating the next. This is a quality show which deserves much more attention.
