Critically acclaimed television drama Parwarish has resonated deeply with audiences across Pakistan, bringing to light the emotional complexities of generational divides and the critical role of empathy and communication within families.
Set within the framework of a middle-class household, the story follows Maya (played by Aina Asif) and her parents, Shaheer (Nazarul Hassan) and Sadia (Bakhtawar Mazhar). The drama delves into the tug-of-war between tradition and modernity, parental duty and a child’s desire for independence.
Shaheer is depicted as a stern, traditional father, deeply concerned about his daughter’s future. Convinced that early marriage is a safeguard against societal challenges, he often pressures Maya to settle down early in life. In contrast, Sadia is a quieter, more passive mother, hesitant to interfere with Maya’s personal choices — but her silence only deepens the emotional gap between them.
This lack of open communication between the parents becomes a source of emotional strain for Maya, who is caught between obedience and self-determination.
Actor Nazarul Hassan explained the mindset behind his character, describing Shaheer as a product of societal fear and lived experience. “He’s a typical middle-class father of daughters, fully aware of the lack of legal protection and gender equality in our society. His protectiveness comes from fear, not cruelty.”
Actress Bakhtawar Mazhar reflected on a particularly controversial scene in which her character remains silent while Maya is harassed by Waleed in the kitchen. As a mother of two daughters, she admitted the scene initially made her uncomfortable.
“In real life, I would never stay silent,” she said. “But the director explained the significance of that moment in the broader narrative — and now I see it was necessary.”
Both actors revealed how their roles in Parwarish impacted them personally. Nazarul, a father of four sons, said the role made him reflect on the importance of emotional openness.
“I’ve faced many hardships, but this role taught me to be softer, to communicate better with my children.”
Bakhtawar added, “I always thought I understood my daughters, but playing Sadia helped me see how different Generation Z really is — their needs, their challenges, and the world they’re growing up in.”
Parwarish has emerged as a major success, earning praise for its sensitive portrayal of the often-overlooked emotional distance between parents and children. Its nuanced storytelling encourages viewers to reevaluate their own family dynamics — particularly the importance of listening without judgment and allowing children the space to grow on their own terms.
Far more than just a television drama, Parwarish serves as a cultural mirror — igniting conversations in living rooms across the country and urging parents and children alike to bridge the divide with understanding and compassion.
