“Raqeeb Se” is a Pakistani drama that premiered in January 2021. Directed by Kashif Nisar and written by Bee Gul, the drama features a star-studded cast including Nauman Ijaz, Hadiqa Kiani, Iqra Aziz, Saba Faisal, Saqib Samir, Sania Saeed, and Faryal Mehmood in lead roles. At the heart of “Raqeeb Se” is a powerful commentary on love – the most complex and misunderstood human emotion.

The series follows the lives of four women – Hajra, Insha, Sakina, and Ameera – as they confront their past and present and navigate the complexities of human relationships. All four women are tied to Maqsood Sahab, who is confronted by his first love, Sakina, after decades. Sakina’s return after several decades sets off a chain of events that forces the characters to confront their past and unravel the complex web of relationships that bind them.

Maqsood Sahab is brilliantly portrayed by Nauman Ijaz, a complex and multi-layered character. He is a man who seems to be living in his past, constantly struggling to come to terms with his memories and emotions. At the heart of his struggles is his enduring love for his first love, Sakina. He is also depicted as emotionally reserved, rarely showing his true feelings to others. This makes it difficult for those around him to understand him and connect with him on a deeper level.

Sania Saeed’s portrayal of Hajra in “Raqeeb Se” is a standout performance in the series. The role seems tailor-made for her, as she brings depth and nuance to a complex character who is both strong and vulnerable. Hajra, a devoted wife, spends her life in the shadow of her husband due to her sense of indebtedness. Sania Saeed captures the character’s quiet strength and inner turmoil with her nuanced performance and subtle facial expressions that bring depth and authenticity to Hajra’s character.

As “Raqeeb Se” progresses, Iqra Aziz’s portrayal of Ameera and Faryal Mahmood’s portrayal of Insha emerge as pivotal figures in the series. Ameera helps Sakina confront her past, while Insha supports Hajra in her journey of self-discovery and growth. Despite their relative inexperience, both characters possess remarkable strength and resilience. They are unafraid to speak their minds and stand up for their beliefs, even in the face of opposition from those around them.

However, the series’ highlight is Hadiqa Kiyani’s portrayal of Sakina. Starting as withdrawn and burdened by guilt, Sakina gradually gains confidence and strength as she connects with Hajra and Insha. Kiyani’s nuanced and authentic portrayal of the character is both poignant and powerful, making Sakina’s journey of self-discovery all the more impactful as she learns to let go of her guilt and open up to those around her.

In “Raqeeb Se”, every character grapples with their own struggles and shortcomings. Each character’s journey of self-discovery is a central aspect of the show, ultimately leading to moments of clarity, growth, and transformation. Through its compelling characters and powerful storytelling, “Raqeeb Se” offers a thought-provoking note on love and human relationships, solidifying its status as a must-watch series.