Pakistani television had lost its track post 2012-2013 with hardly anything new on offer besides saas-bahu disputes, extra marital affairs and family politics. However, the past couple of years have seen a surge in terms of themes, characters as well as genres. From socially relevant plays (Udaari, Khuda Mera Bhi Hai, etc.), to mystery thrillers (Cheekh), to the focus on unconventional roles (Bhola in Ranjha Ranjha Kardi), things have changed for the better.
Recently, a new wave has been observed in television as multiple TV plays – Anaa, Cheekh, Khaas – explore the intricacies of married life, focusing on the couple.
This article focuses on Khaas that revolves around the life of a newly married couple as they embark on a journey with each other.
Sanam Baloch as Saba and Ali Rehman Khan as Ammar essay the role of husband and wife. The two get married after Ammar sends a proposal for Saba and she gives in to his charming ways despite the pain of leaving her career mid-way. The first few days were fairytale-like for the two, but a few months later, they start to go downhill. Saba begins to realize what a narcissist Ammar is and the biggest problem is that he has an explanation for everything. Things were fine until she reacted and started behaving like him.
Considering himself the perfectionist and a know-it-all, Ammar would say things that would easily shatter Saba’s self confidence.
However, what is refreshing about the play is, she doesn’t accept it as her fate and rather chooses to fight back. She longs for respect and appreciation rather than money that Ammar brags about during every argument. He stops her from working so she decides to prove herself and gets a job in Ammar’s office. How will Ammar react to it and whether he would be able to accept it or not, the next few episodes will tell.
Sanam as the educated and sensitive young woman Saba and Ali as narcissist Ammar are doing a commendable job. It is a treat to watch the two together in their respective roles that break away from cliched portrayals.
The plot deserves a special mention for tackling an unexplored subject, which is quite common in our part of the world, given that we live in a society with a patriarchal mindset. The play is convincing and closer-to-reality.
Recently, I posted about the play on a Facebook forum that comprises over 22k women, wondering if women actually find the play worthwhile and find such narcissist behaviour disrespecting.
Over 100 women interacted on the post, asserting that such toxic relationships shouldn’t be encouraged and women should do something about it. Some also shared how relatable Saba’s story is to them and how they managed to get out of those relationships that put them in similar situations.
Sadly, however, there were some women who pointed out that Saba is just being too sensitive and is not willing to compromise. They have the right to share their opinions but what’s unfortunate is the fact that such behaviour from husband(s) has become more of a norm, which is why most women don’t find it objectionable anymore. This is where plays like Khaas hold special significance as they aim to make women realise the impact of such environment at home, on their overall well-being. Compromises and sacrifices are essential to save a fading relationship but not at the expense of one’s self esteem and mental peace.
