Ibn-i-Hawa, as the name suggests, is a drama based on the stereotypes associated with the patriarchy. Although the theme has been addressed in some earlier shows, Ibn-i-Hawa promises to set itself apart. A Momina Duraid production, written by Saji Gul and directed by Ahmed Kamran, it is scheduled to launch on Hum TV. The trailer shows a married woman cheating on her husband with a young man. This warps the man’s worldview and leads him to believe that all women are liars and will cheat at every opportunity. The husband is portrayed as an unattractive man who is plagued with doubt. During the promotion of this show, the writer said that the drama aims to highlight the factors behind creating an ‘evil’ image of women in our society. It will also cover the socialisation of the male characters, and how they are taught to think of themselves as superior, instilling a sense of resentment in them when it comes to women.

Aymen Saleem rejoins the screen after Chupkay Chupkay. Hira Mani and Shahzad Sheikh play significant characters as well. The trailer reveals that the male characters of the show see women as deceivers by nature and believe that their love and affection is a weapon which they use to get what they want. Moreover it can also be seen that the women in the drama are seen through a hate filled lens and considered enemies.

The title of the drama is a play on Ibn-i-Adam (son of Adam). It highlights the erasure of significant women, as both Adam and Eve were responsible for the advancement of the human race. While discussing the main theme of the play in promotional interviews, Saji Gul said that the drama will expose the dark side of patriarchy and misogyny in our society.

During the promotion of this show, the writer explained that the drama aims to highlight the factors behind creating an ‘evil’ image of women in our society. It will also cover the socialisation of the male characters, and how they are taught to think of themselves as superior, instilling a sense of resentment in them when it comes to women.

A dialogue from the trailer has already prompted discussion on social media. Featuring lines like Tum Aik Makkar Aurat Ho (you are a scheming woman) and Aurat Hoti Hi Bewafa Hai (a woman will always betray you), the comment section of the trailers features some interesting takes. Some comments have branded it as a typical ‘Indian’ show. Others have taken issue with the title itself. Regardless, it has garnered some buzz that will push it into the lime light upon release.

Compared to other upcoming releases, the views and likes on the trailer are on the lower end, with 128,000 views on Facebook and 1,000 likes.

Ibn-i-Hawa marks the return of Aymen Saleem on screen after a long break. Hira Mani and Shahzad Sheikh will be playing important characters. A lot of people are commenting about the words used by Shahzad Sheikh for Hira Mani. Some have called the language inappropriate; some have called it ugly.

Some viewers are questioning whether stories related to family politics, hate against women and male dominance are the only avenues left on offer.

Given the 21^st Century revolution in entertainment, TV channels have to compete with international platforms like YouTube and Netflix to produce engaging content. As more people gravitate towards quality content on other platforms, TV channels need to focus on retaining viewers through great storylines. Despite the technological boom, drama is still considered a major source of entertainment and infotainment in developing countries like Pakistan. Some of these productions can have a negative impact on social attitudes and cultural patterns.

Whether the play will prove a piece that aims to change attitudes, or simply paints women in a negative light remains to be seen. As dramas with important social messages and awareness become scarce due to ‘popular’ demand, or because private production houses want to indulge tone deaf writers, Ibn-i-Hawa has the potential to be among productions that start a conversation around misogyny. Whether it will deliver on its promise remains to be seen.

The author a freelance journalist and   documentary producer.  Twitter: @AnasAhmedShaikh   

Email: jranasahmed18@yahoo.com