Our entertainment landscape is celebrated for its distinctiveness, intertwining cultural values seamlessly into its narratives. Across various genres, we’ve upheld the integrity of our content and core values. Our storytellers have fearlessly explored numerous themes and storylines, pushing boundaries with both courage and finesse.
One particular genre that has resonated deeply with our audiences is psychological thrillers. Featuring artists unafraid to set aside glamour, these dramas focus on raising awareness in a subtle yet impactful manner, delivering performances that resonate.
Here, we delve into some of the most compelling dramas that delicately and convincingly shed light on various psychological disorders, leaving a lasting impact on viewers.
Ranjha Ranjha Kardi
One of the biggest blockbusters, ‘Ranjha Ranjha Kardi’ redefined the term hero by showing the male lead as a mentally disturbed adult played by Imran Ashraf. The project highlights the myths and misconceptions about mental disorders in society and how people are misjudged and ill-treated due to such issues.
The project despite having several other themes managed to create an impact that was necessary for the audience and is still remembered for its subtle yet brave storytelling.
Sabaat
Hum TV’s 2020 drama ‘Sabaat’ talked about narcissism, a very common but not much-highlighted personality disorder. The antagonist Miraal played by Sarah Khan was shown to be suffering from narcissistic personality disorder that made her a less understood individual among her family members. The makers showed her taking professional help which created quite a buzz for its fresh narrative. Miraal later went through a process of healing which helped her move forward in life with a better and more empathetic approach.
Saraab
When a genre is remembered after an artist’s name, you know she is dedicated and aspires to bring a certain topic to attention. Sonya Hussyn despite being the epitome of heroine-ness, chose to work in dramas that highlighted some intricate mental health issues which were never discussed on national television that accurately that too on prime time slots.
Her recent show, ‘Saraab‘, which was released in 2020, had her perform the character of a schizophrenia patient. She received praise from the audience and critics. Though this wasn’t the first time she’s been part of this genre, in 2013, Sonya was in the drama ‘Teesri Manzil’ which showed the journey of her dealing with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. After which Sonya portrayed a mentally challenged girl in the Urdu 1 drama ‘Nazo’, the project got critical acclaim for its sensitive writing and Sonya Hussyn’s brilliant performance.
In 2019, Sonya played yet another impactful character in ‘Ishq Zahe Naseeb’ which discussed the life of a split personality disorder patient with a different lens altogether.
Dhund
In 2017, TV One produced a unique psychological thriller series written by veteran actor Mohammed Ahmed. The story revolves around Maria, played by Maria Wasti, who while herself dealing with a traumatic past, explores her ability to see and talk to spirits.
The series had a different tragedy of a spirit that was ultimately solved by Maria. The cast includes Mohammed Ahmed and Hassan Ahmed who are a part of Maria’s journey in each episode. However, despite a unique concept and entertaining execution, ‘Dhund’ never got its due appreciation and is one of the most underrated television shows.
Aakhri Station
Sarmad Khoosat’s 7 episodes series that highlighted the struggles of women from different walks of life had one of its most impactful stories that was headlined by Sanam Saeed. A woman who is going through depression post a traumatic childhood and the suicide of her mother. Sanam Saeed played that part to perfection would be an understatement. The drama could manage to justify the depiction of a depressed patient.
Where there is entertainment, there is messaging too. Very few creators understand the responsibility that comes along with the glam and stardom of this industry. Television dramas can create awareness and make changes where it’s needed, what matters is how the narrative is set and the way the story is told. And that power is held by the storytellers and authoritative creators of the territory. The least that these dramas did was to start conversations in living rooms and dining halls about mental health issues, and isn’t it where the change begins?
