“Kuch Ankahi” is not a fast-paced show, rather it has been a slow, naturally paced viewing experience. This is a drama which makes the audience feel as though they are watching acquaintances, those we have encountered in our own lives – or even our own families. Written by Mohammad Ahmed and directed by Nadeem Baig, “Kuch Ankahi” is a star-studded affair. The cast includes Sajal Aly, Bilal Abbas Khan, Mohammad Ahmed, Irsa Ghazal, Mira Sethi, Ali Safina, Qudsia Ali, Vaneeza Ahmed, Babar Ali, Annie Zaidi, Asma Abbas, Adnan Samad Khan and Sheheryar Munawar in pivotal roles.
In episode 16, Aaliyah (Sajal Aly) continues to put on a brave face while working with Azfar (Sheheryar Munawar). While the two share chemistry and it’s endearing to see how Aaliyah holds her own against her boss, putting him in his place when necessary, this is not a relationship one can root for. There is a wielding of power that Azfar hoards over Aaliyah, along with veiled statements which border on indecent. Simply put, what Azfar puts Aaliyah through is workplace harassment. While we can certainly hope that Aaliyah has a positive influence on Azfar and winds up being a mediator in repairing his relationship with his family, it should not go beyond this. Salman’s (Bilal Abbas Khan) jealousy is only natural and it’s a realistic moment, but if only Aaliyah and Salman shared more moments together. Here’s rooting for Salman to get a proper story arc moving forward – he has been sidelined for too long.
The highlight of this episode is Samiya (Mira Sethi) and her growth. While Samiya initially felt like a pushover, someone who would wind up mistreated by her in-laws and new husband, she has sweetly been proving the audience wrong. This is an obedient daughter, but she is also a strong woman with a logical mind. She listens to her mother-in-law’s taunts, but also knows how to respond back – sweetly, but in a straightforward way. She’s also winning over Saif (Ali Safina), something which does not go unnoticed by Shagufta (Uroosa Siddiqui). Saif has always been caught between his mother and Shagufta, two domineering women, so it’s no wonder he’s now seeing the beauty of having a partner like Samiya. Samiya is a strong, clear-minded, outspoken woman…..but she is also kind and cares about Saif’s opinion. This is a new playing field for Saif, as this is the one thing he has never had in his life. The Saif and Samiya relationship got off on the wrong foot, but has slowly become one we want to root for. Mira Sethi and Ali Safina are both doing a wonderful job with their roles – and Asma Abbas is so enjoyable to watch as the manipulative yet silly mother-in-law.
Of course, Vaneeza Ahmed and Babar Ali continue to be entertaining as Sofia and Tanvi, but they are not given nearly as much scope or screen-space to perform. There are so many players in “Kuch Ankahi” and quite honestly, they are all great characters who have been well-written and deserve to have their storylines play out in a focused manner. “Kuch Ankahi” is a show worthy of praise, a show that is quietly making statements on everything from assault to gender roles in a subtle manner. This is a winner.