The Kashf Foundation has been working in association with drama writers for years now, having been involved with “Rehaai” (2013), “Udaari” (2016) and “Dil Na Umeed Toh Nahi” (2021) in the past. When one hears about the involvement of the Kashf Foundation, it is automatically understood that the show will focus around social issues and important topics, the show being along serious lines. “Zard Patton Ka Bunn” is the latest addition to the list, written by the wonderful Mustafa Afridi and Saife Hassan writer-director duo. Starring Sajal Aly and Hamza Sohail in lead roles, there are high expectations associated with this show – but does it deliver what has been expected?
The first episode has taken viewers by surprise with the tone of the narrative. In the first episode, we are introduced to Meenu (Sajal Aly), a young girl who is education driven and seen praying for a good result. Her brother has five children, he does not have the means to provide for them and so they are seen as a burden. Meenu wants something different for her life and is encouraged by her father. The moment when Meenu gets her stellar result is a beautiful one with her father dancing with joy. This is a positive father-daughter relationship and it’s always a joy to see such bonds on-screen. Sajal Aly is a force, as always, on screen. She immediately takes hold of the viewer as Meenu, adding that sarcastic humor and spiritedness to her character while also casting light on her environment. She lights up every scene she is in. Her environment is equally entertaining though, as we watch chicken fights and the way her village is centered around the Masjid.
On the other hand, Dr. Nofel (Hamza Sohail) and his significant other are new doctors, learning the ropes. When an angry mob breaks into the hospital after a man loses his wife in childbirth, Nofel handles the situation – but is unhappy with how the perpetrator, who is also a victim, is treated. This angle touches upon how the educated deal with and look down upon the locals. Noreen Gulwani and Hamza Sohail share solid chemistry in their scenes together, leaving us wondering what will happen to break this relationship, which seems to be heading towards marriage, apart?
Mustafa Afridi and Saife Hassan rarely let their audience down, two incredibly talented individuals who work well together – and that applies here as well. Sajal Aly is the star of the show, despite the fact that she is only in a handful of scenes. She infuses positive energy into her scenes which leave the audience with a smile. Much of the episode focuses on establishing the environment and culture in which Meenu lives, which will come into play as the story moves forward. Hamza Sohail is a perfect fit in his role, believable as a doctor struggling with an ethical dilemma. How will Meenu and Dr. Nofel meet? That’s what we are waiting for. For a show that was expected to have a heavy narrative, “Zard Patton Ka Bunn” has arrived like a breath of fresh air with an excellent first episode.
