resh off the success of Humsafar, Mahira Khan starred in another fantastic production in the form of Shehr-i-Zaat, a play based on a novella by Umera Ahmad, who went on later to pen many blockbusters. Humsafar needs no introduction. It was a massive hit across the border as well, marking a breakthrough in the careers of Mahira and Fawad Khan, who became megastars overnight. The rest, as it is said, is history.

Shehr-is-Zaat traced the story of Falak, who hailed from a rich and privileged background. Like many other girls her age, was enjoying life to the fullest. The only religious influence in her life was her maternal grandmother, a role played by the enormously talented and versatile Samina Peerzada. The inimitable Hina Bayat played Falak’s mother. She not only acted well but also looked gorgeous.

Falak was a student of fine arts in a college. One of her friends, played by Mohib Mirza, was interested in her but she became smitten with Salman, played by Mikaal Zulfiqar, who bore an uncanny resemblance to a sculpture that she had crafted. She actively pursued him and eventually, he agreed to marry her. However, from the very beginning, it was evident that Mahira’s love for him bordered on the obsessive. He, on the other hand, did not quite reciprocate her feelings - not with the same intensity, anyway.

The turning point in Mahira’s life came when she discovered that the object of her husband’s affection had changed and he was now romantically involved with Tabinda, a female employee of his, portrayed by actress Nadia Afgan.

The scene where the two came face to face was a memorable one. The shock and disbelief on Mahira’s face had to be seen to be believed. She could never imagine that her husband would fall for someone who was inferior to her in every way. This proved to be a rude awakening for her. It may have been just the shock she needed.

The shock turned out to be a blessing in disguise. She started questioning her existence and wondered why God had placed her in this predicament. This was the juncture in her life where she got propelled in a completely different direction.

The remaining episodes traced Falak’s transformation from a haughty, headstrong girl from an extremely privileged background into an individual who shunned worldly pleasures and devoted herself to God. She became extremely religious and devoted herself to her Maker.

Her grandmother played a pivotal role and steered her through an extremely turbulent phase of her life. Her guidance, support and advice helped her to come to terms with the predicament she found herself in.

The dialogues, acting and the story kept the viewers riveted. Although fresh off the success of Humsafar, Mahira Khan could have picked any script but she chose something hat-kay and atypical in Shehr-i-Zaat which would only appeal to a niche audience.

The screenplay and direction were superb which was no surprise considering that Sarmad Sultan Khoosat was at the helm of affairs. This play resonated with this writer on many levels. The sensitive handling of the script along with the low key acting and the excellent dialogues made it a good watch.

This play was and still is one of the best television productions to be aired. Although it never became a commercial blockbuster, it gave the audience food for thought and without being preachy, reinforced the importance of connecting with one’s spiritual side.

Life was never meant to be a smooth sail. The challenges and obstacles encountered in life are meant to steer us in the right direction. That is the overarching theme in this production. It was beautifully portrayed through the story, acting and the screenplay. Sarmad deserves brownie points for visualising and directing such a fantastic television production that not only entertained but also educated in equal measure.

Although comparisons were drawn with Humsafar, a solid screenplay and a robust story placed it in a league of its own. The transformation in Mahira’s character did not appear sudden or forced but was incredibly believable. Full marks to Mahira for carrying off this role with such aplomb and self-confidence.

Verdict: This is something you must revisit.

The writer is an educationist and can be reached at gaiteeara@hotmail.com.