“Jaan Se Pyara Juni” arrived to the delight of Zahid Ahmed fans, who were eagerly awaiting his return on-screen in a mainstream drama, though he was last seen giving an excellent performance in the underrated, largely ignored “Mor Moharan” and in the offbeat “101 Talaqain” last year. Unfortunately, when the promos of “Jaan Se Pyara Juni” went on air, it didn’t seem particularly impressive and buzz was low. However, with the first three episodes, “Jaan Se Pyara Juni” is winning over audiences with its unusual love story, sweet hero and bubbly heroine. Starring Zahid Ahmed, Hira Mani and Mamya Shajaffar in lead roles, the story has been written by Aliya Bukhari and directed by Meer Sikandar.
In episode 3, Junaid (Zahid Ahmed) agrees to marry Mina (Mamya Shajaffar) in a quick, private ceremony. The decision is spurred on by both Husna’s (Hira Mani) rejection and Junaid’s realization that his sister will never get him married. It’s rare that we see male characters who are both kind-hearted and abiding while also seeing reality for what it is. Junaid may respect his sister, but he is more than aware of how she has been using him. It’s also revealed in this episode that Anwar, Junaid’s best friend, was once engaged to Junaid’s sister and he rejected her. This anger has created resentment within her and also mistrust towards his presence in Junaid’s life. Ironically, it’s Anwar who has arranged Junaid and Mina’s marriage – so does she mistrust Anwar or is she more than aware that Anwar recognizes her for who she truly is?
Mina’s entry in Junaid’s life arrives like a storm. Husna is taken aback by Junaid’s quick decision, seeing him arrive with his new bride. Mina may be from a small town, but she is as intuitive and street-smart as can be. She picks up on the vibes between Junaid and Husna – which will certainly become a problem moving forward. Adding to the chaos, Junaid’s sister arrives and creates chaos upon learning about his quick wedding. It’s this moment which is the highlight of the episode. While “Baji” goes on a rant degrading Mina’s character and their marriage, Mina chimes in quickly to give her a much-needed shut-up call. She puts her in her place and does not hold back, causing Baji to storm out of the house. Mina then sweetly asks Junaid if he’s ready to go shopping. The innocence with which Mamya Shajaffar has played this character is excellent while also showing that she is kind, but absolutely not a sitting duck.
Zahid Ahmed is incredibly sweet as Junaid and it’s great to see that Junaid does not bow down to his sister after making this decision. But Mina is the female lead we needed, a strong, confident young woman who is ready to defend herself and her marriage as needed – even if it’s from family members. As of episode 3, “Jaan Se Pyara Juni” is excellent and a welcome addition to the current television lineup. But with Hira Mani’s Husna with her sights on Junaid’s marriage and potentially his future success, will the story remain this light-hearted and upbeat or are we in for a typical, scheming love triangle moving forward? We will have to wait and see, but so far, “Jaan Se Pyara Juni” is highly enjoyable!