HUM TV’s latest drama ‘Goonj’ celebrates women’s courage to speak up

KARACHI: ‘Goonj’ is not merely a drama; it is a movement, a protest, a powerful voice that amplifies emotions, questions, and truths long suppressed. Presented by HUM TV, this masterpiece peels back the layers of society often hidden behind a veneer of politeness and silence. ‘Goonj’ gives voice to those who have remained unheard—silent whispers confined within the walls of the heart.

Through the eyes of Zarnab, the series exposes the struggles of a woman fighting for her rights, her identity, and her freedom at every turn. Komal Mir’s portrayal of Zarnab is both inspiring and illuminating—a beacon for the new generation of girls. She embodies a personality unafraid of tradition, yet resilient against social pressures, forging her own path with courage and conviction.

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Zarnab is an educated, intelligent, creative, and independent young woman from a middle-class background. While rooted in tradition, her upbringing incorporates a progressive outlook—viewing a woman not merely as a daughter or sister, but as a complete human being. Losing her mother at a young age was a profound tragedy, yet her father’s kindness, principles, and enlightenment instilled in her strength and resilience.

Skilled in creative pursuits such as writing, design, and branding, Zarnab stands firm on her values and ideals. Her hard-earned success and respect in a reputable institution symbolize her determination and independence. However, her progress threatens those who feel threatened by her empowerment, revealing the societal resistance to women breaking free from traditional confines.

A pivotal character in the story is Nabeel, who embodies the obstacles many women face—an oppressive figure representing the man who perceives a woman’s success as a personal defeat. Nabeel’s attitude reflects a desire for control, finding power only when a woman remains silent, submissive, and unquestioning.

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Despite Nabeel’s harassment, false accusations, and conspiracies aimed at silencing her, Zarnab refuses to be broken. She raises her voice, and her courage ignites a resonance that transcends individual boundaries. Her voice becomes a movement—an echo that challenges societal norms and inspires change, proving that one voice can indeed shake the foundations of an entire society.

The greatest achievement of ‘Goonj’ is that it transcends being just a drama—it’s an intellectual experiment. Qurb-e-Abbas’s writing crafts such authentic and realistic portrayals that viewers find fragments of their own stories in every scene. Zarnab’s silences, the moisture in her eyes, the hidden anguish behind her smile—all feel so genuine that each scene becomes a mirror reflecting society’s face back at us.

Director Wajahat Rauf masterfully keeps the narrative rooted in reality, ensuring that the resonance of truth permeates every frame. The production’s meticulous attention to detail—location choices, lighting, dialogues, background music—intertwines seamlessly to create a vibrant, emotionally charged experience that feels alive and impactful.

Komal Mir brings an extraordinary depth to Zarnab, elevating her beyond mere acting to embody her very soul. The language of her eyes, the intensity of her emotions, and the strength in her voice make her character profoundly real and relatable. Gohar Rasheed’s portrayal of Nabeel is equally compelling—a reflection of a societal disease—a negative force that’s all too familiar, yet necessary to confront.

Supporting cast members, including Michelle Mumtaz, Ali Safina, Hira Tareen, Shaheen Khan, Khalid Anum, Iman Syed, Feroz Qadri, Anis Alam, Srha Asghar, and Shayan Malik, each deliver performances that enrich the narrative, adding layers of authenticity and depth. Their contributions strengthen the story and resonate with the audience.

‘Goonj’ is not just Zarnab’s story; it’s the story of millions of women fighting silent battles every day. It serves as a stark reminder that harassment, prejudice, and injustice are societal afflictions—problems that can be addressed not only through legislation but through collective consciousness and societal change.

This drama is a mirror for those who perceive women’s autonomy as a threat—challenging institutions that dismiss harassment as mere ‘misunderstandings’ or ‘opportunities’. Above all, it offers hope to women still finding their voice, illuminating the path toward self-empowerment.

If you seek a play that is not just a fleeting distraction but a profound experience—one that challenges your thoughts, stirs your emotions, and leaves an indelible mark on your heart—then ‘Goonj’ is an essential watch. It’s more than a story; it’s the first ripple of a revolution. When a woman speaks, her words echo beyond the moment—resonating through history, shaping the course of change.

Shazia Anwar