“Tere Ishq Ke Naam” is a show that doesn’t attempt to portray itself as something it’s not. This is a show created to pull in TRPs and grab eyeballs with an entertaining storyline and strong cast. However, along the way, it’s also telling a story with an underlying message regarding education and its importance. Starring Hiba Bukhari, Zaviyaar Nauman Ejaz, Usama Khan, Yashma Gill, Nadia Afgan, Munazzah Arif, Jamal Shah and others while the story has been written by Maha Malik and directed by Ahmed Bhatti.
In episode 9, Altamash (Usama Khan) is riled up by Azka (Yashma Gill) on his wedding day as she turns him against Rutba (Hiba Bukhari). This leads to Altamash divorcing Rutba publicly. While Altamash is left shocked at his own actions, instantly regretting his words, Rutba winds up in the hospital after fainting and having a breakdown. Meher (Jamal Shah) and Khursheed (Zaviyaar Nauman Ejaz) stay by her side, but unfortunately, their dedication is not appreciated by Rutba in the long run, who is now in depression. Meanwhile, Altamash is now trying to find a way to reunite with Rutba – but how?
I think we can all answer that question and see the “solution” from a mile away, a solution that will involve a lot of manipulation on Altamash’ part and sacrifice on Khursheed’s – Halala. However, it’s how the story will be carried out which will determine whether or not it remains interesting. What must be acknowledged is the way these characters have been written. Rutba’s depression and anger is understandable. This is a young woman who has always imagined herself with Altamash and has never thought of living life without him. He may be the reason she is sad in this moment, but her blind love for him will not allow her to see the reality of the situation – and she’s blaming the only people she can blame. Her father and Khursheed are her personal punching bags at home and their actions are not something she can understand, especially since there has been an extreme lack of communication between the two. Khursheed not informing Meher about Rutba not taking the money because he “didn’t have time” is the weakest excuse he could’ve come up with and this is definitely a weak point in the storytelling.
It’s Usama Khan who stands out in this episode as Altamash grapples with his choices. Altamash is not a good person by any means, a spoiled young man who has been raised with his family’s money-minded ideals. He puts wealth and ego above all else – and yet, this doesn’t necessarily mean he doesn’t love Rutba. He may have a funny way of showing it, but it’s clear that Rutba is the only woman in his heart and Usama Khan’s performance truly highlights the pain Altamash is feeling, along with his anger at himself. Enter Azka, who is now determined to make Altamash her own, ready to collect the fruits of her plotting and scheming. Yashma Gill does a great job in this role and between Azka and Roshan (Nadia Afgan), the “vamps” of “Tere Ishq Ke Naam” are well-developed and nicely fleshed out with their complexities. By the end of the episode, Meher is on to Altamash and his desire to reconcile with Rutba. But how will Meher stop this from happening? This is one of those shows that leave viewers anxious to see how the story plays out – and that’s praise in itself.