Released in 2000-2003, Amar Bail is another milestone in the successful career of Umera Ahmed. This literary work of Umera Ahmed does not only revolve around the lives of two individuals, but it fiercely unveils the barbaric bureaucratic system of Pakistan, the vicious cycle of social violence and above all, the traumatic experiences youngsters face as a result of mistakes made by their parents.
The novel starts off with the introduction of Alizay Sikander, a young introvert belonging to a broken family secretly yearning for ever deserved parental love. Her life takes a turn when her cousin, Umer Jahangir comes to live at her house.
As you skim through the pages of this literary piece, you will eventually fall in love with the transition of Alizay’s character. From her immature personality to her outspoken, sagacious and shrewd aura, Umera Ahmed beautifully pens down a perfect picture of a typical teenager having her share of flaws.
As for Umer Jahangir, this character not only discloses major societal issues but is also an example of a being who sacrifices everything to keep his loved ones safe.
With the help of this character, the writer sheds light upon the lust for power, imbalanced relationships, complex family system and nepotism which has made our society flimsy.
But amidst all this, the readers come across undying affinity gradually growing between the two main protagonists. A feeling suppressed long enough only to be expressed ten fold. The most raw and heart touching romance brews between Alizay and Umer until one of them is made to pay the price.
The readers will definitely cry buckets reading this novel. Where you are shown brutal societal operations, you will witness selfless love, an eternal wish to see your beloved one happy and strong.
For those who are looking for something light, romantic, valiantly true and tragic, Amar Bail is a must-read for them.
