Mor Moharan Is On Our Watch List & We Think It Should Be On Yours Too!
Mor Moharan is a drama currently airing on TV One. The story picks up on a theme that was needed yesterday – the connection between our environment and our livelihood. So far, many nations have stayed behind in the race for a cleaner, greener, environmentally responsible society because they cannot connect the dots – Development carried out in an irresponsible manner means hazards and damage to the local environment which, in turn, could threaten the livelihood of many who survive on it for daily sustenance, which, in turn, means a significant loss of incomes and lives.
This is the crux of what Mor Moharan gives us, woven into a thought-provoking narrative with the arid plains of Cholistan as the setting to the narrative – what better location to drive home the point.
At present, Cholistan is facing severe water scarcity, mainly due to water not being released into the canals. This has resulted in the death of livestock – which is the main form of livelihood for the locals who rear cattle for a living, on land that cannot sustain much agricultural crop in unirrigated areas.
Not only does the drama shed light on the trials of the people in the region, but also highlights the geopolitical dynamics and impact of climate change that come into play to jeopardize what was once a thriving hub of trading and till today, a region that is home to some of the best carpets, handicrafts and leather goods.
All this is too dry to invest an hour where you crave pure entertainment? I hear you, Oh well, that’s the beauty of it. Written by Ali Moeen of ‘Jo Bichar Gaye‘ and directed by Owais Khan of ‘Zid’, the drama’s narrative took us by surprise. With characterizations that run deeper than the desert and a script executed in an unpretentious, genuine manner, yet filled with vibrant characters that bring out the best in the region, Mor Moharan is fast growing on to audiences. Here’s why you need to watch it.
5 Reasons Why You Should Watch It
1. Casting & Characters
Samiya Mumtaz as Almas is defying middle-aged characters to give them a credible, organic feel. Not just that, but she’s the modern face of a lady born, bred, and raised in the village yet fully aware of what transpires amidst her lands, and those of her neighbors. She’s modern with a touch of tradition, matched by Sonya Hussain who is taking on meaningful roles yet again. Rohi (also means desert in the local language) is not your timid, shy young girl, unaware of the hardships of her people. She is tied to the land with her heart, yet is accomplished with a university degree and plans to bring about change.
Zahid Ahmed as Ahmed Gardezi adds swag with a whole new bad boy look that seems to spell trouble. It is notable to see how the makers have worked on each look to emit certain messages. Rohi with her traditional wardrobe yet armed with her laptop is the perfect blend of traditional versus woke. Ahmed Gardezi in his shawl and wrist ornament complete with dark shades adds an enigma and Firdaus Jamal as Malook Shah positively thrives in the selfie happy father of Rohi.
2. Romance & A Vibrant Narrative
The best surprise was perhaps Mustafa Changezi as Sikander, whose return to the desert from London is marked with a youthful kinda romance and also surprisingly lilting vocals! Looking forward to more musical chords from him. The romance between him and Rohi is warming up and that’s something to watch out for.
Sonya is known for striking chemistry with each one of her co-actors, from Zahid Ahmed to Sami Khan, so looking forward to this narrative, but it’s not just romance that you’ll get here. Remember the narrative?
3. Business, Politics & Environment
Mor Moharan forms a backdrop to the political shenanigans and power-seeking ambitions of its stakeholders. The story is building up to a showdown between Ahmed Gardezi and we hope, team Sikander and Rohi as the thirst for wealth, land, and power supersedes the thirst that the local inhabitants have to undergo daily on a quest for water. Both Sikander and Rohi will be handling their parent’s business as Ahmed aims for an election win. Things are not that simple as Rohi’s father is best buddies with Ahmed, yet, loves his daughter to bits.
It’s all about change and how it’s easier said than done. The dad wants to hand over the reins of power to his daughter, but little does he realize this will mean a change in the ways he’s been managing his land.
Change is a challenge, a struggle, it is painful. We expect to see the story run its course here.
4. Check Out The Local Scenes Of Cholistan
The drama offers captivating views of an area that is known for its colorful textiles – some of the country’s best chunri, ajrak and handicrafts come from Cholistan. The desert area, though largely arid and brown, boasts colorful attire and a culture that is both hospitable and steeped in tradition. We get to see views of a region and the way of life of people who are very much a part of our heritage yet, we might have forgotten about them and their plight. Mot Moharan will remind you of both.
Accompanied By A Heart Lilting OST
5. Well Researched Project
The makers of Mor Moharan mean business. They are not undermining the project with half knowledge. Both producer Seema Taher Khan and writer Ali Moeen, as well as director Owais Khan, have dutifully mirrored the history of the people, their struggle, and the changes culminating due to the hazards of climate change and human development. We spot this in practically every scene, flitting locations, shifting scenes, and panoramic views of the region will give you an experience that is different and refreshing from the usual indoor or city setting. Plus the camera work is especially pleasing as it follows scenes and characters, peaking from behind unusual spots to give a refreshing visual experience.
Climate change is a reality that is gripping communities worldwide. It is commendable that the makers of Mor Moharan are not only fully invested in the project through thorough research and captivating picturization but most significantly, a riveting narrative and performances that demand to be watched. This one’s not a boring message in a 40-minute watch – it’s a narrative that will stay with you.
Mor Moharan is on our watch list and we think it should be on yours too!
Mor Moharan has been penned by Ali Moeen, directed by Owais Khan, and produced by Seema Taher Khan. It features an ensemble cast that includes Sonya Hussyn, Zahid Ahmed, Babar Ali, Mustafa, Samia Mumtaz, Adnan Jaffar, Firdous Jamal, and Mustafa Changezi. Its melodious OST has been sung by Amanat Ali, written by Khalil Ullah Farooqui, and composed by Naveed Nashad.
