Dobara's high ratings prove viewers want 'unconventional stories', says Hadiqa Kiani
The proof is in the pudding, or rather the TRPs Hum TV drama Dobara received after its latest episode aired on Wednesday (Feb 16).
Dobara revolves around the character of Mehrunissa, or Mehru, (played by Hadiqa Kiani), who embarks on a journey of self discovery after her husband passes away. It tackles the struggles of a woman marrying a younger man, as well as the many restrictions imposed on widows and how they are forced to live according to society's confusing standards.
The drama's lead actor Kiani believes viewers do want to see "unconventional stories and cast" in dramas and the 8.8 rating Dobara received on Wednesday reflects this desire. She shared this opinion on Instagram. "I don’t really believe in ratings or applying a numerical value to art but what this 8.8 TRP number indicates to channels, writers and directors is that unconventional stories with an unconventional cast deserve to be told," she wrote.
"[I'm] grateful that we had the chance to make this happen with our truly amazing team," she added.
In episode 17, tension between Mehru's son Affan (played by Usama Khan) and her second husband Maahir (played by Bilal Abbas) escalates, leading to a dramatic fight scene involving a gun.
The drama has been praised for the unique characterisation of Mehru and a plot that is different from what viewers usually find in television dramas. Mehru is a woman fighting back for her rights, for her life and for her ability to live the way she wants to is something we rarely if ever see, one of the many reasons why Kiani chose to play the character in the first place.
According to an interview the actor gave in December, the characters Kiani chooses to play are a means of exploring her own self; characters that are often drowning in loneliness and the experience of having others define your life for you. These characters are also Kiani's attempt at redefining the 'leading lady' in Pakistani dramas.
Dobara has been directed by Danish Nawaz. It's been written by written by Sarwat Nazir and produced by Momina Duraid Productions.
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