After the hit drama series Tere Bin took a dramatic turn with the lead characters – Wahaj Ali as Murtasim and Yumna Zaidi as Meerab – embroiled in marital rape, many viewers expressed worry about the producers’ motivation for the storyline twist.
Among these millions of individuals, Lollywood actress Ushna Shah added her voice to journalist Maliha Rehman’s perspective on the Tere Bin marital rape controversy.
Rehman took to Twitter and released a series of posts expressing how it is a painful sight for viewers to see the downfall of their current-favorite protagonist, Murtasim – a reality check that made ripples.
Also, should a hero as well-loved as #Murtasim commit such an act, the message it gives out is v. damaging, that marital abuse is allowed should the ‘situation’ demand it. A drama as loved as #TereBin has the power to leave a damaging, long-term impact on its extensive audience
— Maliha Rehman (@MalihaRehman) May 21, 2023
Have never seen a drama audience so distressed. #TereBin’s ended at a heartbreaking cliffhanger but right now, I just want to hope for the best. If marital abuse does take place, it will be inexcusable, tarnishing the romance b/a #Murtasim and #Meerab to the point of no return..
— Maliha Rehman (@MalihaRehman) May 21, 2023
In another tweet, the journalist stated, “If I think of it, it’s all rather brilliant in a sad, sad way. The ratings are skyrocketing and it’s all anyone is talking about on desi social media. Regardless, certain lines shouldn’t be crossed. Hoping against hope that Tere Bin doesn’t cross them.”
If I think of it, it’s all rather brilliant in a sad, sad way. The ratings are skyrocketing and it’s all anyone is talking about on desi social media. Regardless, certain line shouldn’t be crossed. Hoping against hope that #TereBin doesn’t cross them.
— Maliha Rehman (@MalihaRehman) May 21, 2023
Shah agreed with Rehman but added a twist, claiming that if she had spoken out against the continuing debate, the tables would have been flipped.
The Parizaad diva’s remark was quoted by social media portals, causing headlines. To avoid any further controversy, the Bashar Momin-famous actress later removed her tweet, advising media outlets not to quote her because she “did not say anything interesting.”
Tere Bin is one of Pakistan’s most popular television shows, even ranking first on YouTube in India. The Siraj ul Haq-directed film, which starred Yumna Zaidi, Wahaj Ali, Bushra Ansari, Farhan Ali Agha, Fazila Qazi, and others, premiered on Geo TV on December 28, 2022. Nooran Makhdoom wrote the drama series.