“Saraab” does a great job of highlighting mental health and the taboos surrounding mental health and acceptance in South Asian society. The story has been written by Edison Idrees and has been directed by Mohin Talat. “Saraab” stars Sonya Hussyn, Sami Khan, Nazish Jehengir, Ghana Ali, Kinza Malik and others in supporting roles. In the last episode, viewers saw Hoorain committed as her health deteriorated.
Episode 27 focuses on Hoorain’s recovery. One thing is for certain. Hoorain (Sonia Hussyn) and Afandyar (Sami Khan) have been through more than most couples experience in the short duration of their relationship. They have had a difficult marriage, particularly due to Hoorain’s mental health. And yet, their love for each other has never faltered – particularly Asfandyar’s. He is the definition of a loving, supportive partner. At this point though, even Asfandyar is losing hope and finds himself conflicted as to how to proceed, breaking down in front of his friend. At that moment, Hoorain asks a nurse to call Asfandyar and it’s made clear that Hoorain is recovering slowly. When she calls Asfandyar, one can see the love between the two shining through, Asfandyar breaking down when Hoorain tells him that she loves him. This scene is beautifully shot, really highlighting the relationship between these lovebirds – a relationship plagued with a lot of grief, uncertainty and yet they still have unwavering love and loyalty towards each other. Later, after returning home for a short trip with Asfandyar for her birthday, Hoorain is shown asking for her medication. This shows that Hoorain now has a desire to get better and recognizes that she’s ill, wanting to live a normal life with her husband and family. Sami Khan and Sonia Hussyn are perfect, both giving their career best performances as Hoorain and Asfandyar, both very complex, layered roles. These two actors are carrying the entire show on their shoulders and their scenes are masterpieces.
On the other end, Hoorain’s parents have now recognized their mistakes and the two even visit Hoorain in the hospital, apologizing to her for their neglect and letting her know that they support her whole-heartedly. It’s particularly wonderful seeing this from Hoorain’s mother, a woman who has always supported Washma and Namal over Hoorain. Realizing that her daughters are headed down a messy road, even she is now aware that Hoorain has suffered a lot due to their family environment. Is this always enough? Certainly not, but it’s a starting point and a healthy point for Hoorain’s recovery. Meanwhile, Washma (Ghana Ali) and Namal (Nazish Jehangir) bicker as Washma withdraws support from Namal openly. Realizing that Washma has always been out for herself, Namal agrees to marry the conniving, manipulative Sufiyaan. These two sisters continue to be disasters and is there really any hope for them? Is it possible for them to reform or are they also victims of their environment? Really – do we care? These characters have done more harm than any others on the show.
“Saraab” is a gem due to Sami Khan and Sonia Hussyn’s performances and scenes. Their moments are so well-written that the viewer finds themselves entranced during those scenes. It’s unfortunate that the rest of the show has been bogged down with Washma and Namal’s scenes, scenes that don’t add to the story but deter it. The show’s basic premise is brilliant and the scenes focusing on Hoorain’s illness and Asfandyar’s support are brilliant. This should be a perfect show, but despite the kitchen politics, it’s still one that will be remembered for its lead actors and their performances. With the end approaching, will Hoorain and Asfandyar have a happy ending?