When you watch a Pakistani drama play out and the female character inspires you to be the best you can be in your life, you know she’s nailed the role, she’s reached across the screen to capture your heart & she’s done it for millions of other women watching her across the globe too!
These are the characters that stand out among the rest – women in dramas do not always have to be the submissive wives or the becharis in the story line. Women can & do defy norms – true, there’s not enough of them, but let’s celebrate the ones who are getting it right!
I love complex characters, strong females, who are vulnerable but have a life and soul. That’s what I’m drawn to and what I enjoy the most.
Ruth Wilson
Here are 5 strong female characters who capture the best women can be onscreen
1. Nargis (Rabia Butt) – Pehli Si Muhabbat
Nargis came and conquered! We were a bit skeptical that oh no, a step mom. What issues might she bring in Rakhshi’s life but who knew that it would be the complete opposite. Nargis paved her way through the drama and won us over with her resilience, determination and for always standing by Rakhshi.
2. Shanaya (Sajal Aly) – Ishq E Laa
Shanaya, we fell in love with you from the very first scene.
She taught us that one can be independent, with a strong faith, a pure heart and do so much for others. From shedding light on society’s issues, fighting for justice for Sultan and eventually helping find his daughter, she won us over.
She showed us some real boss moves balancing her work life, private life. Inspiration for all, right?
3. Falak (Sarah Khan)– Laapata
This character gave motivation for young girls out there to carry on their education, pursue their dreams and passions. Falak with all her determination, will and most importantly, hardwork, trained for badminton and eventually became a national league winner. You go girl! Reminder: This was possible only because of her parents’ love and full support, who pushed her to be her best and follow her dreams.
On the other note, she was an inspiration for those who are stuck in a toxic marriage or relationship. She walked right out, filed a case, faced challenges on the way but walked out of them too!
4. Noor (Ushna Shah) – Aakhir Kab Tak
Aakhir Kab Tak had many messages to note down. From abuse, neglect, mental health, parenthood and so much more. Noor was the character who stood against the bad, spoke freely, even in a toxic environment, and fought for Fajar. She protected her from Bissam and the professor and even gave her mother a wake up call to break the toxic patterns and step up. Noor became the voice for many girls.
Her guts, determination is all noteworthy. Not only that, but the way she also single-handedly looked after her father’s business post his paralysis showed some real boss moves. Living in a patriarchal society and working with a male dominated field showed us real boss moves! What’s your take?
5. Sawera (Yasra Rizvi)– Dil Na Umeed Toh Nahi
Dil Na Umeed Toh Nahi is a drama for the books. In an environment, living in a brothel, facing so much abuse and trauma, Sawera endured it and stepped out of it too. She wanted a way out, but not only for herself but Sumbul too. Sawera made sure to protect her and the other girls and when the time was right, she broke out of the toxic chain.
Girl power at it’s finest!
On that Note
It’s motivating to see our drama writers giving us powerful female characters, paving the way and being the change needed. Whether it’s breaking patriarchy or breaking other social settings, either way they area voice and hope for many. Not only this but they have become a voice for many across the country.
For everyone: Be the change. It goes a long way!
