Veteran Actress Atiqa Odho Questions Narrative Style of Aik Aur Pakeezah Drama

Atiqa Odho Critiques *Aik Aur Pakeezah*'s Storytelling Approach

Lahore: Atiqa Odho, a celebrated and enduring figure in Pakistan’s television and film landscape, has voiced significant reservations regarding the narrative execution of the drama seriesAik Aur Pakeezah. Known for her impactful performances in iconic productions likeHumsafar,Pyar Kay Sadqay, andKaisi Teri Khudgharzi, Odho currently captivates audiences in the Hum TV dramaNeeli Kothiand co-hosts the insightful review programKya Drama Hai.

During a recent panel discussion onKya Drama Hai, Atiqa Odho openly discussed the series, expressing profound disappointment with its overall impact. She articulated a feeling that the drama lacked originality and failed to deliver the fresh perspective she typically anticipates from a project helmed by acclaimed director Kashif Nisar. Her critique centers on the perceived absence of novelty, a key element she believes is essential for contemporary storytelling.

The Disengaging Effect of Frequent Flashbacks and Narrative Shifts

A primary point of contention for Odho was the excessive reliance on flashbacks and the constant oscillation between past and present timelines withinAik Aur Pakeezah. She argued that this repetitive back-and-forth created a fatiguing viewing experience rather than an immersive one. In her assessment, such narrative fragmentation significantly disrupted the story's natural flow, diminishing its overall appeal and engagement over time.

Raising the Bar: Local Dramas Versus International Content

Atiqa Odho candidly shared that her expectations from director Kashif Nisar have tempered, as she now seeks projects that truly distinguish themselves and leave a lasting impression on the audience. Drawing a clear comparison, she noted that after experiencing well-produced international series, such asThe Newsreader, local dramas likeAtiqa Odho questions narrative style of Aik Aur Pakeezahoften feel considerably less compelling and impactful.

She further observed that much of Nisar's recent directorial output tends to adopt a tone reminiscent of older PTV-era narratives, describing it as somewhat raw and overtly weighty. While acknowledging the inherent quality in such traditional storytelling, Odho emphasized that modern television dramas must also cater to contemporary viewers who are regularly exposed to a diverse spectrum of global content. For her, Nisar's earlier project,Case No. 9, stood out positively due to its more modern approach and enhanced viewing accessibility, offering a benchmark for future productions.