If anyone asks me to make a list of my favourite serials, Rehai would definitely be in the Top 5. Marvellous plot, superb direction and outstanding performances. None of the episodes was boring or slow. Nothing was too rushed or too dragged. Everything moved on a normal pace and that’s what made it such a brilliant production. There was no glamour in the serial and yet it kept you glued till the end. If it were up to me, I would term it as the best serial of 2013 and this is no emotional comment. For the first time in years, a serial based on a serious social issue has been made and has effectively spread awareness. And it didn’t just highlight the issue, it showed a way out of it as well.
The last episode showed how a positive approach and struggle can lead to success. Three women dared to take up their own responsibility and succeeded in changing not just their fate but of the next generation as well. Waseem went through unbelievable change after his accident. After he divorced Kulsoom, he refused to send her to Chacha Inayat’s house as he didn’t trust him to take enough care of his daughter. He also encouraged Akmal to come out of his fear and admit his love for her.
Kulsoom’s hesitation was understandable. She has been through so much that it was hard for her to trust anyone now. And then there is the fear of what everyone else will think of her. Add to that her concern of what’ll happen to her daughters if she marries Akmal; one can imagine how tough the decision was for her. But in the end, things fell into place, Shahnaz got her wish as Kulsoom agreed to leave her daughters with her and she finally got the ‘rehai’ she could only dream of. All in all, a very happy ending. Some might say that it was a bit idealistic but I think it was perfect, considering that the serial aimed to spread awareness and motivate women to work on their own and carve their own fate. If the ending would’ve harsh and unhappy, the purpose of Rehai would have gone down the drain.
The last scene was my favourite. It perfectly portrayed that people do change for the better, if they try. Waseem did and he came out of the darkness he lived in all his life. Watching him assuring his daughter that he would not marry her off till she becomes a doctor sahiba, just like she wants to be, was extremely touching. It’s true that awareness can only be spread through education, not by rallying out on the streets.
Once again, a huge round of applause to the entire team of Rehai for producing such a master piece. Everything about this serial, the direction, photography, editing, acting etc. was perfect. Mehreen Jabbar has once again portrayed her brilliance. Senior and acclaimed actors, Samina Peerzada and Munawwar Saeed, reminded people why they are praised and treasured by the industry. Noman Ejaz was phenomenal as Waseem, I hated him, then I pitied him and then I admired him. He perfectly portrayed a man who was swallowed by his ego and then succeeded in his struggle to come out of it. Maria Wasti as Shehnaz was absolutely amazing, her character had her flaws but she overcame them all to protect and support her family.
Akmal was one of my favourite characters in this serial and Danish Taimoor’s superb acting made him even more lovable. Another memorable performance has been added to his portfolio. As Akmal he was an obedient son, a caring brother, loyal employee and a faithful lover. Danish Taimoor was truly the best choice for an amazing character like Akmal.
Saniya, as Kulsoom, was adorable as well. Though she lacked expressions at some points, overall her acting was believable. She will definitely be remembered for this performance.
By Farwa Batool Naqvi
Unfortunately, despite wanting the best for her, they can’t do anything to change the circumstances. All Shamim could think of doing was tell Akmal not to visit their house often, stop talking to Kulsoom and marry the girl of his mother’s choice. Though she told him that she trusts him and she wished she could do something for the two, she was helpless. Kulsoom, who overheard the conversation, was heartbroken and ashamed at the same time as she realised that her mother-in-law knew about Akmal and her.
A Fanatic's Review 