If there’s a drama currently on-air which has left its audience wanting more each week, it’s “Yunhi.” This beautiful, subtle tale of East vs. West not only thoroughly leaves its viewers entertained, it also highlights religion versus culture, the importance of religion, the problems between married couples – and much more. Starring Maya Ali, Bilal Ashraf, Behroze Sabzwari, Deepak Perwani, Uzma Beg, Tazeen Hussain, Tahira Imam, Manzoor Qureshi, Maha Hassan and others, “Yunhi” has been written by Samira Fazal and directed by Ehtashamuddin.
In episode 21, Kim (Maya Ali) and Dawood (Bilal Ashraf) continue to help Surayya, hoping that they can stop the wedding somehow. While they did not approve of Awais, they also do not believe Hamid will be a good life partner for Surayya (Maha Hassan). During all this commotion, Kim begins to realize that her feelings for Dawood are not as friendly and straightforward as she thought. There’s a lot lurking under the surface and she is realizing that her feelings for Dawood are of a romantic nature. However, does Dawood feel the same way? This is what is bothering Kim, as Dawood claims he’s only protecting her and is kind to her because she is his wife – not necessarily owning up to loving her. Kim has already fallen for her husband and it’s this thought that is now weighing heavy on her mind. Does Dawood only see her as an obligation? Meanwhile, Kim’s attitude has left Dawood perplexed, wondering what is going through her mind.
Dawood and Kim’s relationship is so beautiful, it continues to win us over as an audience. This is the sort of love story that grows gradually and leaves viewers wanting more. Dawood and Kim are polar opposites, but what binds them is their equal kindness and the ability to not only empathize with one another, but also grow together. These are not egotistical characters and while their marriage took place under unusual circumstances, their marriage is proving to be rock solid. Maya Ali and Bilal Ashraf are not only visually pleasing due to their great appearances, but their chemistry as actors is solid while their performances are endearing.
Another star in this week’s episode is Husna (Laiba Khurram). While Surayya’s marriage continues to move forward and the family gathers for the nikkah, Husna pays Surayya a visit and is dismayed to find that Surayya does not want to marry her brother. Husna’s reaction is what makes her a wonderful and realistic character. Husna can feel Surayya’s discomfort and she’s ready to put a stop to the entire thing, empathizing with her cousin. While in other shows, a character like Husna would be a vamp, in “Yunhi,” she’s a strong woman with strong opinions willing to stand up for Surayya, even if that means standing against her brother and parents.
The effect Kim’s presence has had on this entire family, from Basharat (Behroze Sabzwari) to Dawood and even Husna is strong. She has planted the seed of progress and progression, the lack of which has gradually been destroying the women of the family. While “Yunhi” was not a favorite initially, it’s now a beautiful weekly watch to be recommended to all Pakistani drama lovers. “Yunhi” is a must-watch.