“Kuch Ankahi” could easily be called the best show on television at present. Written by Mohammad Ahmed and directed by Nadeem Baig, 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. This is a drama which focuses on many different issues while maintaining an entertaining pace.
In episode 21, the audience finds themselves wondering what Aaliyah’s (Sajal Aly) thoughts are regarding expectations in a relationship. There is this great scene at the beginning of the episode between Azfar (Sheheryar Munawar) and Aaliyah where the two bicker in a fun way. Sajal Aly’s acting here is great and it’s nice to see her in a comical moment. However, the scene really sets up the intensity between this duo – which leaves us, as the audience, thoroughly confused. Later in the episode, Salman (Bilal Abbas Khan) has grown tired of fighting with Aaliyah and decides to, like a respectable individual, have a mature discussion. Unfortunately, during this mature discussion, Aaliyah informs Salman that he’s not privy to the details of what happened at Azfar’s house nor is she answerable to him. She also states that the basis of any relationship is trust – and this is where Aaliyah, as a character, has lost us. Aaliyah has, on one specific occasion, told Salman that if she were presented with an opportunity to better her life, she would take it. She refuses to commit to him. She halts any meaningful discussion about their relationship – and yet, she expects Salman to trust her blindly. Trust cannot be demanded in a relationship, it must be earned and blind trust is not wise for any partner – especially when half that relationship has a character like Aaliyah who refuses to engage in open communication. As an audience, we are quick to point out red flags in male characters and criticize their faults. What then about characters like Aaliyah? Aaliyah is a smart, career-oriented woman who has been providing for her family for years. She has not been showing that intelligence over the past few episodes – and that is disappointing. It almost seems as though the team is trying to confuse audiences and create “team Salman” vs “team Azfar” fandoms and Aaliyah’s character is being sacrificed in the process. This has nothing to do with Sajal Aly, Sheheryar Munawar or Bilal Abbas Khan, as all three are performing their roles to perfection. But the writing and direction? This is failing these characters. It would also be nice to treat the male lead like…..the male lead. Can we please have more Salman scenes, please?
The scenes surrounding Samia’s (Mira Sethi) new job and her success are a delight to watch. Samia is earning respect from her mother-in-law (Asma Abbas) and husband through her financial independence while also creating something for herself with her career. It’s heart-warming to watch her bond with her mother-in-law at present. Unfortunately, Saif (Ali Safina) has not evolved enough for our liking. He is still discussing marrying Shagufta (Uroosa Siddiqui) and allowing himself to be bullied. Rather than sticking up for Samia, he acts as though she’s a pity case who he needs to let down gently. Saif needs to find his strength and fight against Shagufta sooner than later – because Samia can do better.
“Kuch Ankahi” is a fabulous show, overall. Sure, there are weak points and honestly, the entire track following Tania’s (Qudsia Ali) missing friend just feels like one created to throw all these loose parts together (Tania, Shakeel and the like). These are talented actors, so this track not only feels unworthy, it is also half-baked. It will be interesting to see how the story unfolds – but yet again, we need more Tanvi (Babar Ali) and Sofia (Vaneeza Ahmed)!