Geo Television Network’s latest drama “Hadsa” has become the center of attention, but for all the wrong reasons. The show, which features a controversial storyline, is facing allegations of insensitivity towards rape victims and their sentiments. The lead role is taken on by Hadiqa Kiani, with the script penned by Zanjabeel Asim Shah. The production is in the hands of Shazia Wajahat and Wajahat Rauf.
The controversial drama
The controversy surrounding the drama unfolded as a real-life victim of a harrowing motorway incident opened up about her experience to journalist Fariha Idrees. The victim’s brave act of sharing her grief and anxiety drew her even more into the public eye when she revealed that watching her story depicted boldly on television was a traumatic ordeal. Reliving those agonizing moments through the drama was an unexpected blow, leaving her distressed and vulnerable.
Hadiqa Kiani’s take on the issue:
To know that something I have been a part of is being used to hurt and trigger a survivor is something I cannot stand for. pic.twitter.com/7GmV3IMG2B
— Hadiqa Kiani (@Hadiqa_Kiani) August 28, 2023
Unsurprisingly, this depiction stirred a storm of criticism from social media users, viewers, and activists alike. The drama’s creators were quick to find themselves at the receiving end of public condemnation for their perceived insensitivity towards the victims.
Also read: Pakistan’s First Netflix Original To Feature Fawad, Mahira, Sanam & Ahad In Lead Roles
Nadia Jamil’s strong remarks
Even respected actress Nadia Jamil, herself a survivor, voiced her distress and dismay over the drama’s portrayal. Drawing from her own personal journey, Jamil highlighted the responsibility that artists bear in handling such sensitive topics with utmost care and authenticity. She passionately argued that the dramatization of such incidents directly assaults the mental well-being of all survivors, underlining the heart-wrenching reality of the situation.
This is disgusting. As a survivor of child sexual abuse and rape I am offended and disgusted by this comment.
For those who cannot read Urdu the dialogue basically says:
“Like a corpse cannot come back to life.. lost honour can never come back.”
The disgusting words used for… pic.twitter.com/N8gVe23Iig
— Nadia Jamil (@NJLahori) August 29, 2023
However, the makers of “Hadsa,” including the writer, producers, and actors, are firmly refuting any claims that their show is based on the real-life incident that unfolded in Pakistan in 2020. Despite these assertions, the public outrage continues to swell, fueled by the undeniable similarities between the drama’s storyline and the actual events.
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