Some shows are not action-packed, but focus instead of human emotion and family conflict. “Yunhi” alls into this category, feeling almost poetic at times with its presentation and old-world charm. “Yunhi” stars Maya Ali, Bilal Ashraf, Behroze Sabzwari, Deepak Perwani, Uzma Beg, Tazeen Hussain, Tahira Imam, Khaqan Shahnawaz, Laiba Khurram, Manzoor Qureshi, Maha Hassan and others. “Yunhi” has been written by Sarwat Nazir and directed by Ehtashamuddin.
In episode 32, Iqbal (Tazeen Hussain) and Zulfi’s (Mujtaba Ali) wedding festivities have begun, bringing the date of Kim’s (Maya Ali) departure closer. What’s beautiful about the way this has been executed is that we can feel the emotions both Dawood (Bilal Ashraf) and Kim are going through. With any other show, this could be called the “dragging phase,” however with a show like “Yunhi,” which is emotion-heavy, we are now at the crux of the story. Up until now, Dawood has always been the one catering to Kim’s whims, protecting her, defending her, showing open affection and attempting to convince her to stay. However, now, with George’s arrival – and Kim’s behavior towards Dawood’s wishes -, he realizes that he cannot hold Kim hostage in a marriage that she doesn’t want. And if she does want it, he cannot be in a marriage with someone who does not respect him or hold his opinions in high regard. Asking a woman not to meet her ex-boyfriend is an expectation of men and women of all cultures, even the United States, so this is a big misstep on Kim’s part. This episode shows Kim’s discomfort at the thought of leaving without Dawood as he removes her from his life – and it’s now Kim’s turn to go through some self-reflection. These moments are much needed to round out Kim’s harsh edges and put this couple on equal footing. Both Maya Ali and Bilal Ashraf are doing such a wonderful job in these roles, making us root for Dawood & Kim while also understanding their dilemma.
While Kim and Dawood’s relationship is falling apart, Kim’s relationships with the rest of the family have only grown stronger. Razia (Tahira Imam) has wholeheartedly accepted Kim as her daughter while Iqbal and Suraiyya (Maha Hassan) adore her. Dada (Manzoor Qureshi) has also become more receptive to Kim’s ways. It’s beautiful to see how these relationships have grown and strengthened, their bonds feeling genuine. The scenes between the family and George at the wedding as they all try to speak Urdu are laugh-out-loud funny thanks to Behroze Sabzwari at his comedic best, Manzoor Qurshi and Saad Faridi, though the actor playing George truly lacks acting talent, which puts a damper on the overall quality of the moment. Unfortunately, the family is shocked upon hearing about Dawood and Kim’s plans to separate with Dada scolding Dawood and attempting to change his mind. However, Dawood is a chip off the old block and is as stubborn and determined as his grandfather.
Of course, this episode cannot be discussed without talking about Iqbal and Zulfi, the now newlyweds. Everything about their first day in their home is adorable, from Zulfi making tea for Iqbal to Iqbal discussing her dreams of being a career woman. This is a supportive, loving couple and now, seeing how Iqbal’s ideals are different from the family in which she was raised, it’s clear that Iqbal and Zulfi are a perfect match. Tazeen Hussain and Mujtaba Ali’s natural chemistry wins our hearts and we long for more scenes between these two!
“Yunhi” continues to go from strength to strength. Things between Dawood and Kim are only getting worse, particularly after George’s appearance at the wedding. I’d love to know in what world an American would show up to a wedding event uninvited? It’s a small criticism though in an otherwise great episode. With only two episodes left, “Yunhi” is a show that audiences will be sad to see coming to an end. Here’s to hoping the last episodes are strong, meaningful ones.