The first episode of “Ishq Murshid” set high standards for what’s to come, instantly luring in viewers with this not-so-simple love story between a middle class girl and a politician’s son. Starring Bilal Abbas Khan, Durr E Fishan Saleem, Omair Rana, Samiya Mumtaz, Srha Asghar and Noor Ul Hassan, “Ishq Murshid” has been written by Abdul Khaliq Khan and directed by Farooq Rind. “Ishq Murshid” reunites Farooq Rind with actors Bilal Abbas Khan, Omair Rana and Srha Asghar after previously working together in “Pyar Ke Sadqay” in 2020.
In episode 2, Shibra (Durr E Fishan) and Shahmeer (Bilal Abbas Khan) both attend the wedding of their friends, Faraaz and Maleeha (Srha Asghar). While Faraaz and Maleeha’s relationship seems really sweet, Faraaz’s father is a ruthless politician who is put in his place by Shibra on the wedding day. Things are smoothed over quietly and quickly, but considering Shabbir Jan plays the politician, we can definitely expect chaos to erupt in Maleeha’s life moving forward – and will it be due to Shibra? Regardless, Shahmeer is now smitten with Shibra, but Maleeha makes it clear that Shibra will not be interested in a man like him, as they come from two entirely different worlds. Shibra and her father have high ideals and will not stomach any kind of corruption – and considering Shahmeer is from the world of politics, he is not the ideal match. This will not stop Shahmeer though, who is willing to change himself for Shibra.
Bilal Abbas Khan is the star of “Ishq Murshid,” absolutely captivating as Shahmeer. His discussion with his father is filled with so many emotions on both ends. While his father visibly loves and cares for him, Shahmeer is filled with anger and resentment towards his father and his wife, Farha, for their betrayal towards his mother. Bilal’s expressions during that conversation are brilliant, showing the anger and pain under the surface while Omair Rana displays the turmoil of a father unable to break the barrier between himself and his son. What a wonderful scene.
The bus scene is excellent, another moment for Bilal to shine as Shahmeer navigates the bus and its “eccentricities” for the first time, leaving viewers in splits of laughter. Durr E Fishan looks every bit a natural beauty and leaves an impact with her performance. The personalities of both Shahmeer and Shibra are so sweet and endearing with their friends that they feel a perfect fit. Sure, Shahmeer has his inner demons and Shibra has her family problems, but when they are removed from their family environments, their personalities seem tailor made for the other. “Ishq Murshid” is off to an excellent start and gives us something to look forward to every Sunday, filling the void left by “Yunhi” with something equally as great.