Are you the Noor of your family? Are you called ‘moun phat’, ‘badtameez’, ‘bad-lihaz‘ for stating your rights? Do you have to fight for basic opportunities? Are your parents often discouraging and unsupportive?
Noor’s character mimics the story of a typical Pakistani woman; tired and scorned but determined to break away from the patriarchal and stereotypical chains. “Aik din main tumhe azaad karoon gi”, is the first line uttered by Noor, presented by Ushna Shah in the drama serial ‘Akhir Kab Tak‘. This line defines her character, the urge to bring about change, the passion for freedom, the desire for independence, and the sheer determination that characterizes her personality.
Who Is Noor?
Noor is a confident, straightforward college girl. She wanted to pursue higher studies but was thwarted off by her parents. With further development in the story, she takes charge of her father’s business after her father loses the ability to move due to paralysis.
If there is one thing that Noor could change, it would be to break free from her toxic household environment. The drama depicts how she lacks the ability to communicate with her father and is often misinterpreted by her mother.
Negative Parenting & Its Influence On Children
‘Akhir Kab Tak‘ brilliantly sheds light on the negative parenting influence on children. Noor lacks the feeling of connection with her parents due to their rigid parenting. Her parents are often authoritarian and neglectful, such as in instances described below:
• Authoritative parenting is imposed on Noor when she is scolded to keep her mouth shut without knowing what she did wrong.
• She is forced to apologise for her ‘misbehaviour’, while all she did was stand up against some toxic household practices.
• She is neither supported by her mother nor her father.
• Both parents provide little to no nurturance or guidance to Noor.
Negative parenting style has caused Noor to have an imposing attitude.
These negative behaviours must be avoided by parents to promote the healthy mental development of children.
She believes things can only be accomplished by fighting for them. Moreover, Noor is filled with passion, and determination but is shackled by constant demotivation and discrimination from her parents.
The drama revolves around Noor’s parents having a typical mindset of how women should be confined to their homes. Noor and her sister Fajr are harassed/ bullied by their cousin. Fajr is timid but Noor gives vigorous and unrestrained responses to him, and we absolutely love them! Noor’s father boils with anger upon seeing Noor demanding basic rights; her rights for education, and for just being a normal human being.
Here Comes The Change!
The drama incredibly portrays Noor as a multi-faceted human. She is shown exhausted, worn out but hopeful, and optimistic. She is the only person in the house who acknowledges mental well-being. She advises her mother to look out for herself and to learn the difference between living and surviving. If we look at this storyline from a different perspective, imagine how successful Noor would have been if only her parents supported her. Imagine how her parents could give her wings to fly – A girl like Noor could do wonders.
Yes, there are girls like Noor among us, who have the tendency to accomplish with flying colours but all they require is the love and support of parents. The drama is now taking a new direction towards the success of Noor. It can be noticed that the change is only possible with advancement in the surroundings and a broader mindset. As Noor’s mother warms up to her and begins to respect her efforts, we see Noor flourishing and achieving what she had always wanted to do, in this case, managing the family business.
Multiple studies show a positive relationship between a child’s success and parental support
Children with supportive parents tend to live a much happier, stress-free life and follow a healthier developmental path. It is necessary for parents to assist their children, lend an ear, provide a shoulder to cry on and create a safe haven for them. Parents are pillars of a child’s empire. ‘Akhir Kab Tak‘ touches upon sensitive topics of harassment, rape, mental issues and stereotypical attitudes. It is time for Pakistani society to change, and we are up for it!
*Please Note: The article has been written by Abeera Waheed as part of a collaborative effort between FUCHSIA Magazine & Project Yaqeen.
