Iran considers allowing European nations to clear …

Veteran Pakistani actress Atiqa Odho has shared her thoughts on what she believes was a casting mismatch in the drama serial Dar Ke Nijat, saying one particular casting decision made it difficult for her to fully connect with the story. During a recent episode of the television review show Kya Drama Hai, Odho discussed different aspects of the drama and praised most of its casting. However, she admitted that she struggled to accept actress Saba Hameed in the role of Faran Tahir’s mother, explaining that the casting felt unconvincing to her. According to Odho, the overall cast of Dar Ke Nijat has been carefully selected, but she felt that Saba Hameed portraying the mother of Faran Tahir did not appear believable on screen. She noted that while actors are capable of playing a wide variety of characters regardless of their real-life age or appearance, audiences also need to feel that the relationships presented in a drama are convincing. The actress explained that her reservations were influenced by another television drama currently airing at the same time. In Bus Tera Saath Ho, Saba Hameed and Faran Tahir are seen portraying husband and wife, making it difficult for viewers to immediately accept them as mother and son in Dar Ke Nijat. Odho pointed out that watching the same pair in two entirely different family dynamics simultaneously affected the realism of the characters for her. She said that although actors often take on diverse roles, parallel broadcasts can sometimes create confusion and reduce the emotional impact of a performance. She also commented on Saba Hameed’s appearance, describing her as an elegant, stylish and youthful actress whose screen presence does not naturally align with traditional grandmotherly roles. Odho said that despite efforts to transform her look for the character, she still found it difficult to view her as an elderly matriarch. In her opinion, the makeover appeared forced rather than natural, preventing her from becoming fully immersed in the story. She stressed that this was her personal perspective and acknowledged that other viewers may have different opinions about the casting. Odho further remarked that she understands actors frequently portray characters outside their real-life age brackets and appreciates the creative freedom that comes with acting. Nevertheless, she believes that casting decisions should also consider audience perception, particularly when the same performers are appearing in multiple dramas at the same time in dramatically different relationships. The veteran actress emphasized that this single issue stood out to her while watching Dar Ke Nijat, even though she otherwise admired the production and its performances. Her comments have since sparked discussion among drama fans, with many debating whether simultaneous casting in contrasting family roles can affect a viewer’s ability to suspend disbelief. The conversation has also reignited broader discussions about casting choices in television dramas, particularly when popular actors appear in multiple projects airing concurrently. While some viewers agree that repeated pairings can be distracting, others argue that talented performers should be judged solely on how convincingly they portray their characters, regardless of their roles in other productions.

Rubina Ashraf, one of Pakistan’s most respected television veterans, recently spoke about the importance of recognizing postpartum depression and supporting women through pregnancy and motherhood. Appearing on a morning television show, the actress shared her thoughts on the emotional and psychological challenges many women experience before and after childbirth, emphasizing that these struggles deserve greater awareness and compassion. Having spent decades in the entertainment industry as an actress, director, and producer, Rubina has earned widespread recognition for her memorable performances in dramas such as Pas-e-Aaina, Tapish, Kasak, Do Bol, Khuda Aur Muhabbat 3, and Iqtidar. She also received praise for directing the acclaimed drama serial Ruswai. Beyond her successful career, Rubina is a devoted mother of two, and her daughter, Nawal Tariq, has also established herself as an actress in Pakistan’s television industry. During the conversation, Rubina highlighted how discussions around postpartum depression were almost nonexistent in previous generations. She explained that society traditionally viewed childbirth as a routine responsibility for women, often overlooking the immense physical and emotional changes they experienced. According to Rubina, people now need to understand that pregnancy is far more than a physical process. She said that a woman undergoes significant transformations in her body, skin, hormones, and emotions, making the journey both physically demanding and mentally exhausting. While pregnancy is often associated with happiness and excitement, it can also bring anxiety, stress, and emotional vulnerability. She stressed that pregnancy-related anxiety and postpartum depression are genuine medical and psychological conditions rather than signs of weakness. Rubina noted that many women silently struggle because their emotional health is ignored or misunderstood. Without proper care and emotional support, these feelings can develop into severe depression, affecting both the mother and her family. The actress urged families to become more aware of these challenges and encouraged them to provide women with understanding instead of judgment. She explained that a pregnant woman should not be expected to manage every household responsibility while dealing with the physical and emotional demands of pregnancy. Instead, she needs kindness, patience, and reassurance from those around her. Rubina particularly emphasized the crucial role of husbands during this period. She said that a husband’s support should begin during pregnancy and continue after childbirth, as these months can be among the most difficult in a woman’s life. Emotional encouragement, practical help, and compassion can make a significant difference in a mother’s mental well-being and recovery. She added that expecting mothers often feel overwhelmed because they are trying to balance multiple responsibilities while their bodies and emotions are constantly changing. Without a supportive environment, these pressures can become unbearable. Rubina’s heartfelt remarks have resonated with many viewers, drawing attention to the importance of maternal mental health. As awareness of postpartum depression continues to grow, her message serves as a reminder that emotional well-being is just as important as physical health during pregnancy and after childbirth. By encouraging empathy, open conversations, and stronger family support, she hopes more women will receive the care they need during one of the most life-changing phases of their lives.