In terms of interesting content, “Mere Ban Jao” hooked viewers immediately with its intriguing storyline. Starring Zahid Ahmed, Kinza Hashmi and Azfar Rehman in lead roles, the story has been written by Samira Fazal and directed by Syed Ahmed Kamran. We’ve watched as the lead character, Azmia, played by Kinza Hashmi, found herself in a toxic relationship with her fiancé, Fardeen (Azfar Rehman). Due to his controlling, aggressive nature, Azmia wound up agreeing to video chat sessions of an inappropriate nature – and this lapse in judgement will soon come back to haunt her.
In episode 17, Azmia is now back at home, but has created close bonds with Zaki (Zahid Ahmed) and Nadira (Hira Tareen). In Azmia’s absence, Zaki is now facing loss without Azmia’s designs. Fortunately, seeing Azmia’s state, her mother agrees to allow her to continue working with Zaki and Nadira. This is the first good decision Azmia’s mother has made in the entire show. Up until now, this woman has only misguided her daughter, taught her to be docile and how to put up with the unfair behavior of men. She has never taught Azmia to be strong and how to protect herself, however with this one move, she somewhat redeems herself. This not only takes Azmia’s mind off of her problems, but also gives her wings to create a potential career for herself. Unfortunately, with what’s coming, will Azmia’s mother once again mistrust her own daughter?
Fardeen has not given up and is hell-bent on destroying Azmia’s life. Despite the fact that his own father reminds him that he was at fault and not Azmia, Fardeen is a perfect narcissist, a man who cannot think beyond himself and cannot move beyond his own ego. There’s something so sinister about this character with the way he’s able to manipulate those around him. He manages to get Azmia’s number, ironically through his fiancée Farah, and so begin the calls. Azmia requests Fardeen to stay away from her matters, but he pays a visit to the house. Fardeen’s meddling does not let up until Azmia, politely, asks him to stay away. But will Fardeen stay away? Of course not. This is fuel for further revenge and Fardeen, who is now planning his wedding to Farah, will not allow Azmia to get away so easily.
Honestly, all the players are doing a great job in this show. Kinza Hashmi is always a natural and is doing a great job here as well as Azmia learns to re-adjust to her home life. Azfar Rehman is excellent as Fardeen. Azfar has played several negative roles recently and he has mastered the art, sending chills down the viewer’s spine. Zahid Ahmed is such a treat to watch on-screen, a genuinely great actor. Special mention must be given to Hira Tareen, who is so entertaining as Nadira.
Having a video leaked is terrifying for any woman, something which has taken place all around the globe. However, in South Asian society, the reaction is much more severe and has destroyed lives. The message of “Mere Ban Jao” is to highlight how one moment, one lapse in judgement, can completely alter one’s life. Women must be strong enough to say no and stand up for themselves when they do not feel comfortable with what is being asked of them. Can coercion ever be called love? Up until now, “Mere Ban Jao” has not brought Fardeen’s ultimate weapon out – but with next week, the blackmailing will begin. With this one video, Fardeen can control Azmia’s entire life. Will Azmia put her foot down? And will Zaki help Azmia find the confidence to do so?