“Neeli Zinda Hai” is a show that is not being spoken about as much as it deserves. Starring Mohib Mirza, Sonia Mishal, Urwa Hocane, Mohammad Ahmed, Kinza Malik and others, “Neeli Zinda Hai” is a story about the issues that can arise between a husband and wife that have grown apart – with a dash of horror thrown in. The drama has been directed by Qasim Ali Mureed and the story has been written by Adeel Razzaq. While last week, it was beginning to feel as though “Neeli Zinda Hai” may become sluggish in pace, this week throws in another element of interest.
The most frustrating part of the narrative in episodes 12 & 13 is the character of Sumbal (Sonia Mishal). Sonia is doing a great job playing her, but some of Sumbal’s decisions test the viewer’s patience. Aman genuinely believes Sumbal is losing her mind and he has been growing exceedingly irritated with her. Why then, when Aman finds Dilawar in their home, does she not come up with a better excuse for his presence? Dilawar is an acquaintance of Nagina, so Sumbal could easily have said that it’s Nagina’s father/brother/uncle or really any relationship that is justifiable. Instead, she has created a mess for herself by telling the truth – which would not sound “normal” to the logical mind.
Unfortunately, in their mess, Aman leaves the house with Minaal and, in the process, Aman is kidnapped. There’s an exciting/interesting moment here where a character played by Osama Tahir spots Minal in the car by herself and keeps watch over her until Sumbal and Fahim (Mohammad Ahmed) arrive. We have seen Osama Tahir before twice – his picture in the house and also in Neeli’s (Urwa Hocane) flashback. What is the connection and will Osama’s character play a role in handling Neeli somehow?
What Aman’s kidnapping means for the family is grave. With Aman’s kidnappers demanding a large sum of money, Fahim is forced to sell their own home and, therefore, the entire family moves in with Sumbal. Of course, this is trouble for Sumbal living under the same roof with Bano (Kinza Malik). However, strange occurrences have already caught the attention of Fahim, Bano and Aaliyah, all three experiencing some form of discomfort at Neeli’s hands. Will this help Sumbal’s cause or will Bano find some way to use Neeli against Sumbal?
Urwa Hocane’s performance remains the highlight as Neeli’s haunting smile is what sticks with the viewer. Credit must also be given to Sonia Mishal as Sumbal – there are many moments where Neeli becomes Sumbal and it can’t be an easy task for Sonia to present herself as Sumbal, but act like Neeli. Mohammad Ahmed also does an incredible job this week as a distraught father and Kinza Malik is wonderful in an absolutely irritating role. Overall, the cast of “Neeli Zinda Hai” is putting forth their best efforts to keep the audience coming back for more. The latest development with Osama Tahir’s character is yet another reason to continue watching.
