Tana Bana is taking us on yet untread roads in Pakistani dramas – focusing on the wedded journey of our millennials Zain and Zoya. We are treated to empowering characters. Equally the drama is showing us how patriarchy is being targeted but in a gentle way. Join in on the debate as a millenial takes on a millenial love story!
From my last review until now I stick to my perspective: this drama is entertaining. Audiences have criticized the story for its minor sloppy elements that have generated major debate on some points.
Such as the character of Zoya for example.
There’s an ongoing conversation on whether Zoya’s character is arrogant and selfish or not. On the other hand, viewers are also discussing if Fouzia (Zain’s mother) is a vile character and if Zain and Zoya are making wise decisions to keep this marriage going.
Let me tell you my opinions from behind my own socially tinted glasses and how I reflected on these and other points:
Is Zoya Truly Selfish And Arrogant?
In my opinion: yes and no. Do I sound confused? Maybe?
I get when people say she is arrogant and should be investing more time in her marriage and make an effort to consider Zain’s happiness too. But, I reflect again and think: can we blame her?
No, we can’t I believe.
Is It Fair To Blame Zoya For Wanting To Continue Her Education? Priorities???
It’s her Zidd of wanting to study further and pursue her career. This should not be considered a zidd really, but a valid desire to get what is her right to education and a secure future. This is what makes her (re)act in this way. Right from the beginning, she had told her mother she didn’t want to get married, but oh well, she had to! And I also get how she fell for Zain and his charming personality!
On the other hand, she now has a commitment with Zain and I agree she should be a bit more soft and caring. Special mention to the scene where Zain accidentally breaks an egg in the frying pan (including the shell). I did not agree with how Zoya reacted. She picked up a spatula and put the egg away to afterwards tell off Zain and ask him to continue preparing breakfast. Her attitude does come off as slightly selfish and problematic in some way.
I also feel like not every girl in her married life has the privilege to do what she desires and have a husband who supports her in everything, so Zoya could show a bit of appreciation there, maybe?
I truly sometimes feel for Zain when Zoya reacts in this way! But kya karein, Zain is the oh so majnu boy in this drama and every day I (and I bet many more young girls) keep on wondering where we find such guys?
Is Zain’s Mom An Obnoxious Character?
I feel like we can be very intolerant in some way and tend to judge quickly, but I have had a lot of conversations with myself and came to the conclusion that Fouzia is not annoying or vile. If we would put ourselves in her situation then we would have perhaps reacted in the same way. She is definitely not a negative character since she wants the best for her son and daughter-in-law. She is just fed up of the fact that she has to do all the household chores and nobody offers her any help. Some empathy might help there?
I have to say that in the beginning I did not agree with her mentality on how she wanted a daughter-in-law so she can do all the house chores. When mothers in law harbour such expectations, (and we support them), we once again inhibit empowerment in our society and young girls are placed in a vulnerable situation yet again. Unfortunately, it is a woman who is imposing her values on another here (as in real life too).
Women should enjoy the freedom to do whatever they want and should be able to combine their work-life balance just like Zoya. I bet many young women watching her from the other side of the screen secretly, or openly admire her choices.
Are The Reasons Behind Zain’s Failures Realistic?
No, they’re not.
Mujhse abhi tak yeh baat hazzam nahi ho rehi ke how can a guy go so far for his damsel? And it makes me reflect why Zoya can’t go to another room to study instead of keeping the lights on in their room. And all of that, knowing that Zain can’t sleep with the lights on.
I was also wondering whether it was justified that Zain lost his job and where this storyline is taking us now! I truly felt for him when he lost his job and took Zoya to the seaside to tell her about his job. Also, did we really need that as part of the plot? Kinda forced, if you ask me.
Are Zain And Zoya Making Wise Decisions Regarding Their Married Life?
I’m not sure whether they are or not, but I feel like they aren’t being able to communicate properly with one another. Zain continues to tolerate Zoya’s nakhre and Zoya keeps on doing her thing. Currently we are watching a love story scattered with a few cute moments in which both of them are trying to make the most of their marriage, but they could definitely do with some advice!
I also have to admit that I liked it how Zoya encouraged Zain to wake up for Fajr namaaz and told him he has to wake up every dawn. It was also very cute to see how the mard of the ghar all gathered together and were cooking together. That scene had cuteness written all over it. I like how they are breaking stereotypes – women are not the only ones who should cook and do the household chores, but also men who can definitely lend a helping hand.
Excited Where This Drama Is About To Take Us!
If you just watch this drama without focussing on the minor elements that seem flawed for whatever reason, you can really enjoy the experience. My evening feels incomplete if I don’t watch the latest episode. It’s very entertaining, light-hearted and allows you to slip into a world of smiles which is a good thing after a busy day of roza and preparations.
I’m really excited to see what the second half of this drama has to offer us! Tell us what you think!
Which Ramzan drama is your favourite? Check out our thoughts on all three.
