(Web Desk) - The upcoming drama serial "Noor Jahan," featuring Saba Hamid, has ignited criticism due to its portrayal of a ‘regressive and troubling’ storyline.
Zanjabeel Asim Shah's script and Musaddiq Malek's direction bring together a formidable cast for the drama, promising a compelling performance.
The drama cast includes Noor Hassan, Kubra Khan, Hajra Yamin, Zoya Nasir, and Ali Rehman Khan, adding depth and talent to the project.
At the heart of the narrative lies an authoritative elderly woman who exerts control over her sons' lives, perpetuating harmful gender stereotypes and shaping their destinies.
A recent trailer featuring Saba Hamid’s monologue has drawn criticism.
It narrates the story of a king who loses respect and stature after the birth of a daughter.
In the drama, her son had a daughter. To him, Saba’s character was narrating the King’s story.
And after that, she said to him: “Look at me. I am a mother of sons. I walk with my head held up high. No one can say no to me.”
The monologue perpetuates the harmful idea that a man must have sons to gain respect.
Social media users have expressed outrage and disappointment, criticising the drama for promoting discriminatory content.
Many have expressed frustration with Saba Hamid for accepting such harmful roles.
One fan commented: “Saba Hamid always does characters like this.”
Another wrote: “Saba Hamid comes after so long and always brings such degrading characters.
“Why do you like the characters in which women are looked down upon Saba? Please don’t do this in the name of acting and craft.”
One social media user wrote: “They will never show an empowered woman in a positive light.”
Viewers have also criticised the drama makers for perpetuating harmful gender stereotypes, stating that they are unwilling to educate society through progressive content.