“Kaala Doriya” is not being discussed on social media as much as previous Saima Akram Chaudhry and Danish Nawaz comedies, such as “Chupke Chupke” and “Hum Tum.” However, that does not mean it’s any less – if anything, barring the initial two episodes, it’s very well-written with both depth and comedy interwoven seamlessly into the story. Starring Osman Khalid Butt and Sana Javed in lead roles, the drama also stars Adla Khan, Farhan Ali Agha, Zainab Qayyum, Sohail Sameer, Nadia Afgan, Samina Ahmed, Khalid Anam, Ali Safina, Khalid Malik and others.
In episode 11, Khalid Malik makes his entry as Kukoo, Bitto’s (Tamkenat Mansoor) love interest. While the two characters have been having an on-again-off-again relationship over the years, Kukoo refuses to commit, though the reason isn’t clear. Tanno (Nadia Afgan) appears to be the main opposition in this relationship, maybe wanting to keep her own family members separate from her in-laws. However in the process, she is being seen as the villain. What’s refreshing about this scenario is how regardless of Kukoo’s feelings and Mahnoor (Sana Javed) and Asfi’s (Osman Khalid Butt) attempts to reunite Bitto and Kukoo, the other family members do have Bitto’s best interests at heart. They aren’t against Kukoo and greet him with love and affection – but they also recognize that he has not done what’s best for their daughter, so they have to do just that. And so, Bitto’s marriage is finalized and the family is pushing forward…..until Tanno breaks the news that they’ve asked for Mahnoor instead.
The end of the episode leaves the door wide open for Kukoo and Bitto’s reunion. Khalid Malik’s performance makes Kukoo not only endearing, but he also has some great lines and fits in the family well without feeling like he’s trying too hard. The other actors are a bit sidelined in this episode, however that gives different actors their moment to shine. In this episode, Khalid Anum and Samina Ahmed get their moment as Bitto’s parents, trying to protect their daughter from any further setbacks. While their casting as a couple seemed odd at first, it goes to show what great actors they are that they’ve made their Daada-Daadi pairing one of the most lovable on-screen relationships, not shying away from showing love and affection as an elderly couple. It’s truly sweet. “Kaala Doriya” is honestly a joy to watch and all the actors are doing a fabulous job. While there isn’t much to critique within “Kaala Doriya,” this is one of those shows that puts a smile on your face and is entertaining – and Pakistani dramas are severely lacking in this one aspect. It’s much welcome!