“Tere Ishq Ke Naam” is a drama with a strong story, interesting characters and just the right amount of “masala” to keep the going-ons interesting. A story of a family feud and how the next generation is affected by the mental health issues of their parental counterparts, this isn’t a meaningful story, but imparts some strong messages. Starring Hiba Bukhari, Zaviyaar Nauman Ejaz, Usama Khan, Yashma Gill, Nadia Afgan, Munazzah Arif and others, the story has been written by Maha Malik and directed by Ahmed Bhatti.
Mehr Ali (Jamal Shah) continues to be the highlight of “Tere Ishq Ke Naam,” the best written character. This is a man who is kind-hearted and wants the best for those he loves. However, this is also a man who is intelligent and recognizes how greed can take over relationships and turn families against one another. In episode 10, Mehr Ali, in an attempt to save Rutba (Hiba Bukhari) from further heartbreak, puts a large chunk of his land in Azka’s (Yashma Gill) name. The catch? Azka must marry Altamash (Usama Khan). While the families are initially shocked, particularly Sanobar (Munazzah Arif), they push Altamash and Azka to make the “right” (financially viable) decision. Meanwhile, Altamash plots how he will reconnect with Rutba even post his marriage to Azka. At this point, Altamash is just one money-minded user who wants to acquire Azka’s land and also reunite with Rutba.
Fortunately, Mehr Ali is a smart man and he arranges Rutba’s marriage to Khursheed (Zaviyaar Nauman Ejaz) on the exact same eventing. He is not only looking to remove Altamash from Rutba’s past, but also wants Rutba to have a strong, stable partner. While this decision comes too quickly and barely gives the two time to grapple with this twist in fate, we are left wondering how the story will unfold – and that’s good writing. The story has come to an interesting juncture. While Rutba is in absolutely no state of mind to make solid decisions about her future, we know that Khursheed will be good for her. Hiba Bukhari is incredibly sweet in this role, both soft-hearted and stern at the same time. Of course, Jamal Shah is excellent as well, while Zaviyaar Nauman Ejaz does a decent job. “Tere Ishq Ke Naam” does a good job of blending both the masala genre and a social message highlighting the importance of education. As the story moves forward, will we see Khursheed’s life on the rise while Altamash moves in another direction now that he’s married to Azka? Or will a game of emotional musical chairs now ensue?