Hum Kahan Ke Sachay Thay is a new drama starring Mahira Khan, Kubra Khan and Usman Mukhtar. Written by Umera Ahmad, one aspect of this drama explores the problematic marriage of Mahira Khan (Mehreen) and Usman Mukhtar (Aswad). Although this drama is written by a highly proclaimed and established writer, and featuring a star-studded cast, it is absurd to see the quality of the script and the actual content brought forward in this drama.
Firstly, when everything else seems to be getting banned by PEMRA, why is it when dramas such as these are airing on television, showing domestic abuse and suicide without even displaying trigger warnings, it is accepted and even lauded by audiences?
Although Aswad may not have directly hit Mehreen in the drama, there were several instances where Aswad spilled burning hot chai on Mehreen's hand, or forcefully blocked her way not letting her go, screaming at her, wishing she was dead, in every episode.
Is that not violence? Is violence only physical and one that can be seen from blood and gore? There are several forms of violence including verbal and emotional violence which is never banned by PEMRA.
This drama has received lots of criticism but also acceptance and fascination from the Pakistani audience, which is mind-boggling to say the least. On top of that, Mehreen choosing to stay with her abusive husband when she has the opportunity to leave simply because she "loves" him so much is unbelievable. Escaping toxic relationships is hard, but a different message should have been sent here because this drama definitely could have empowered people who are stuck in toxic, abusive marriages or relationships, with the right direction.