Durefishan Saleem explains the theme of the series Dar-e-Nijaat — Dawn
In Pakistan, actress Durefishan Saleem responded on Instagram to criticism of the series Dar-e-Nijaat. She stated that the story does not claim that women cannot or should not heal on their own, but raises the issue of double standards around redemption. Dawn reports.
According to Saleem, it is easier for men to make a mistake, seek redemption and receive a second chance, while women often carry the burden of their decisions for much longer. The actress urged viewers not to view the characters' choices as a model of behavior: one may disagree with their actions while still understanding their emotions and empathizing with their journey.
In another Instagram post, Saleem shared the view that Dar-e-Nijaat is a story about a woman finding herself, rather than searching for a man.
Reaction to the scene with Zaryab
The 14th and 15th episodes of the series sparked discussion among viewers. The main character, Zaryab, experiences anxiety and depression after being betrayed and abandoned by her longtime boyfriend and childhood friend Zamil, played by Namir Khan.
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In one episode, Zaryab experiences a condition resembling a panic attack. Her family tries to calm her down, but she does not feel better until Abu Bakr appears — a possible new love interest played by Sheheryar Munawar. He recites verses of the Quran over a glass of water and helps her drink it, after which Zaryab is able to get up and leave.
Part of the audience criticized the scene, believing that it creates the impression that a woman needs male support to recover after a painful breakup. Some users noted that the heroine needed therapy instead, while others called her rescue by a man unrealistic.
Double standards of redemption
Saleem emphasized that this scene is not the story's main purpose. In the series, Zaryab feels guilty over her relationship with Zamil outside marriage and cannot move on or think about marriage to another person. At the same time, after returning to religion, Zamil quickly ends the relationship, declares his right to start a new life and marries a woman he considers devout. The actress called the inequality in the sense of guilt and subsequent self-reflection between the woman and the man the series' main theme.
