'Kuch Ankahi' shatters toxic in-laws trope with wholesome scene

The show is ticking all the right boxes

In a television landscape often filled with conflicts and strained relationships between in-laws, a recent episode of the popular Pakistani drama series, Kuch Ankahi, delivered a heartwarming scene that left audiences touched. 

The remarkable interaction between veteran actress Asma Abbas, who plays Zareena, and the talented Mira Sethi, who plays Samiya, provided a breath of fresh air for viewers, as it portrayed an extraordinary bond between a mother-in-law and her daughter-in-law that one often does not get to witness.

The scene in question revolves around Sethi's character finding an old photograph - an image that had long eluded Abbas' character. The cherished photograph is discovered wrapped up in the clothes belonging to Zareena. In a rare portrayal on Pakistani television, Abbas' character reaches out to caress Sethi's character's face with a deep sense of affection and asks, "Should bad times come upon us, you won't leave us, will you? You are my support now." The sincerity and vulnerability in Abbas' character's plea set the tone for the poignant moment that follows.

Without hesitation, Samiya responds, "Aunty, there will no longer be any bad times." Her reassurance carries an air of genuine love and empathy, assuring Abbas' character that she will stand by their side through thick and thin. This exchange represents a departure from the traditional portrayal of tense dynamics between the women in the family, as it showcases a newfound sense of trust and unity.

The dialogue continues as Abbas' character acknowledges the positive impact Sethi's character has brought to the household, remarking, "Yes, you've changed the whole house. You'll change my son's destiny as well." These words highlight the transformative effect Samiya has had on the family dynamic and emphasise the enduring strength of their relationship.

The scene not only captivated viewers with its emotional depth but also served as a significant departure from the often stereotypical representation of mother-in-law and daughter-in-law relationships on Pakistani television. Instead of perpetuating the notion of constant conflict, Kuch Ankahi demonstrated the potential for deep understanding, support, and love between these two important family members.

This is not the first time Kuch Ankahi has deviated for the better from television norms. Previously, the show highlighted the importance of divorce, custody and other relevant clauses in the nikahnama that are often deleted or crossed out from the marriage agreement during weddings. The show also tackled fat-shaming in an earlier offering. 

Actor Sajal Aly, who plays Aaliya, previously spoke to Fuschia about the show. “We’re talking about women empowerment and this project has so many women at the centre of the story with their own individual narratives," stated Aly. "We’re not just supporting each other in the script but even on the set. All of us, Vaneeza [Ahmed], Mira, Qudsia [Ali], we’re all there for each other. The feeling when you actually, genuinely support women is the best feeling and that comes out in its best form in the serial."

Speaking about how Kuch Ankahi is a throwback to the kind of television that was once celebrated, Aly stated, "This is the kind of old-school PTV family drama that you still remember. You’ll cry, you’ll laugh, and you’ll celebrate with us. It’s a lot of emotions together."

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