Sir: Pakistani TV dramas have been giving an exponential boost to the entertainment industry of Pakistan by gaining appreciation of all sorts from quite a time now. The encompassing popularity of these dramas has outreached on an international scale and has acquired admiration, even from the Indian viewers particularly the serials, ‘Humsafar’, ‘Zindaagi Gulzar hai’, and ‘Aunn Zara’.
The talented actors, skilled soap makers, fewer episodes, and a story that captivates the audience are all elements that add to the overall success of a show. I am not a fan of desi-fiction based serials; but, what I have concluded by catching a few glimpses from time to time and by reading the reviews is that unfortunately, the charm is beginning to quiver.
The mantra, “Less is more!” is somehow vanishing and the dramas are being outstretched needlessly, making people recall the agonising and perpetual torment of Indian dramas. In addition, the tales revolving (endlessly) around rivalry, conspiracy and inauspiciousness is suffocating, plainly unexciting and Indian like.
Whatever happened to making it exclusive, the Pakistani style? In such a scenario, even the handpicked, renowned actors fail to mesmerise the audience. For instance, the most hyped drama these days, the romantic fiction – ‘Mann Mayal,’ offers nothing more than a plot that shows a gloomy atmosphere, a dull heroine crying about her miserable life, a protagonist who does not tire doing anything and then, of course, a villain who is the most fashioned plotter of all times. Too many episodes of the still storyline have been victorious to drop off the excitement; ultimately, it will be none other than Hamza Ali Abbasi who will be applauded for the serial’s success. Thanks to his huge fandom. Likewise, another issue regarding the television plays is the portrayal of women in our society. This is one of the most debated issue in the history of this industry yet, we are still asking — why is it so imperative to render patriarchy as suitable?
The brutalisation of women by the hands of men is shown very frequently in our serials as if it is absolutely tolerable in the society. Men are made known as ultimate decision makers trying to control the ways a woman gets to spend her life. Horrifying is the extent of such patriarchic plots that summons the pessimistic and hopeless behaviour of the male audience towards women.
Without the role of woman, not only life itself is vapid but so is a TV serial. What disturbs me the most is the fact that sexual harassment against women in sitcoms is being laughed at. It is horrifying how the unambiguous depiction of harassment is taken as a joke and people are prepared to accept it mentally. This matter is not merely the substance of our drama industry, but it calls for a confrontation internationally.
On the other hand, Pakistan dramas are approvingly known for addressing societal banes and fighting off the stereotypes; unlike the soaps where “saas-bahu” combats go on for years. TV dramas, like ‘Udaari’ and ‘Chup Raho’, continue to strike a note with the people by touching and dramatising the taboo topics such as child abuse and rape in spite of receiving heaps of criticism. With all hope, we all might agree that our hearts yearn for the success of these serials to an extent where it has a positive impact on the society.
At the present time, there is no other colossal agent of socialisation larger than the TV and Media industry. It not only keeps us informed but advises, teaches, excites and shapes our perspectives. I believe, Pakistanis dramas are proficient enough to outstretch the positivity among the audience by fixing the feeble plots and by making an effort to revamp the off-putting messages that are being broadcasted. Frankly, who wants to see an eternity of melancholy and endless episodes?
RUMSHA SULTAN KHAN
Karachi