TV serial

Aapa Shameem

Woman vs. Woman

By Naseem Jehan | February 2025

“Aapa Shameem” is a drama serial that premiered on ARY Digital in December. Produced by Big Bang Entertainment, the show is penned by Asma Sayani and directed by Zeeshan Ali Zaidi. The ensemble cast features Faiza Hassan, Fahad Sheikh, Munawar Saeed, Saleem Sheikh, Zoha Touqeer, Maham Aamir, Sajjad Pal, Rahat Ghani, Ahmad Randhawa, and Rashid Farooqui.

The narrative centers on Aapa Shameem, portrayed by Faiza Hassan, a matriarch whose unwavering dedication to her family sets the tone for the lives of her daughters. These daughters, bound by cultural traditions and the unspoken rules of family loyalty, navigate their own struggles as they place their personal aspirations on hold to uphold the values instilled by their upbringing. The drama serial delves into the complexities of familial love, highlighting how devotion can sometimes transform into control, testing the limits of loyalty and personal freedom. As the daughters strive to balance their duties towards their families and in-laws, they face the painful question of whether their sacrifices are a testament to their love or a surrender to societal pressures.

A notable aspect of Aapa Shameem is its exploration of professional rivalries among women, a departure from traditional narratives that often focus solely on domestic conflicts. Faiza Hassan, in a discussion about the show, emphasized this distinction, noting that while previous projects like “Nand” centered on household disputes, Aapa Shameem delves into the professional realm, highlighting conflicts arising from career ambitions.

The casting of Zoha Touqeer, who gained attention from a viral video, adds a fresh dynamic to the series. In an interview, Touqeer shared her journey to securing the role, detailing how she was approached for an audition after being noticed on social media. Her inclusion brings a blend of new talent to the seasoned ensemble.

The production quality of “Aapa Shameem” reflects the high standards associated with Big Bang Entertainment. Zeeshan Ali Zaidi’s direction ensures a cohesive narrative flow, while Asma Sayani’s writing provides depth to the characters, making their struggles and triumphs resonate with the audience.

In terms of viewership, Aapa Shameem has garnered attention for its compelling storytelling and strong performances. The show’s portrayal of women’s professional challenges, intertwined with familial obligations, offers a nuanced, engaging, and thought-provoking perspective.

In conclusion, Aapa Shameem stands out as a significant addition to Pakistani television, offering a reflective and forward-thinking narrative. Its exploration of professional rivalries among women, set against the backdrop of familial expectations, provides a fresh perspective that is both engaging and relevant. The strong performances, particularly by Faiza Hassan, and the introduction of new talent like Zoha Touqeer, contribute to an entertaining and thought-provoking TV serial.