Mahroo Sajid
ANYONE who even has the slightest whim about the Pakistani drama industry would know the highly anticipated serial that graced the screens of every Desi household nowadays. Not only is it on its way to fame for its immaculate cast (that fits right into every character miraculously) but also for the message it aims to preach to the masses.
Sar e Rah, starring Saba Qamar, Sunita Marshall, Saboor Aly, Hareem Farooq, Muneeb Butt, and many more, weaves the innovative concept of showcasing the struggles of women in society. Shehla Rizwan, the Executive Producer, during her appearance on a morning show, emphasized that for societies to thrive, all people must have equal rights, exercise their own voice, and live free. Sar-e-Rah’s concept is driven by real stories and we’ve delicately built the storyboard around some of the most sensitive issues requiring attention in Pakistani society.
However, the bit that set it apart from previous dramas that touched on this topic is the characters refusing to live in the problem, rather striving for a solution! A story built around six episodes, written by Adeel Razzaq and directed by Ahmed Bhatti, that broke the shackles of gender patriarchy and inequality, is expected to make a dent in the rigid ideologies in this male-dominated society.
Sar e Rah was aired in collaboration between USAID and a private broadcaster, which beautifully presented gender equality and women empowerment in the course of its story, to shut down the toxic patriarchal norms of the society. The main objective of the drama was to provide an entertainment based series with hard hitting and strong entwined messages that would represent various individuals, social classes and demographics. Each story unwinds the struggles women and men face through their journey of empowerment amid societal challenges.
While talking in a ceremony which was held to mark the grand success of Sar e Rah, USAID Pakistan Mission Director Reed Aeschliman said “Media acts as an effective catalyst for social change, in all societies, media plays a vital role in building perceptions. It serves as a platform to educate, guide and build better understanding.”
“The stories we created on screen were a powerful depiction of USAID’s real beneficiary stories who are the unsung heroes who have not only made a difference in their lives with the support of USAID but also played their role to create a positive impact on the society.” This was stated by Shehla who is USAID’s Outreach and Communication Head who led the creative concept behind this project.
Needless to say, watching all the episodes was a pleasantly empowering experience and left me warm with pride within. In a society where people have limited mainstream professions to men, and frown upon women stepping out of their comfort zones (even if forced by necessity), drama serials like these can help guide people to think with a new perspective. The warm acceptance of such concepts in society will not only help people to realize the hardships women have to face but will support and encourage the women who stand strong in the face of harsh conditions.
Sar e Rah brings to light another pressing issue that needed addressing, as it strives to reshape the ideologies of the masses, who have been led astray solely because of distorted perspectives. Serving as a wake-up call for all those with limited thinking, it proves that gender is secondary, anyone with capabilities and motivation can aspire to do what they set their mind to, regardless of their sex! Every episode made me bawl my eyes out at the realization that society needs remodeling, and made me hope for a better future where people can live, and let live.
The episodes were jam-packed with sizzling on-screen chemistry between the cast, dialogues with depth, and an amazing acting performance by the actors, especially Saba Qamar! Even though Sar e Rah pinpoints pressing issues in our society, the overall vibe isn’t gloomy and dark. It is shot smartly with expert cinematography without taking too much away from the plot. I was simply left wanting more, ready to embark on this journey with Rania, Muzna, Rameen, and all the other characters!
