The Impact of Tere Bin's Marital Rape Scene on its Reputation
Undoubtedly, the drama series Tere Bin has made a profound impression on its viewers, thanks to its impressive production, captivating storyline, and, above all, the remarkable on-screen chemistry between Wahaj Ali and Yumna Zaidi. The audience has been enamored by the exceptional narrative, cherishing every scene in the drama. However, to the disappointment of viewers, the drama took an unexpected and rather absurd turn when the promo for episode number forty-seven featured a potential marital rape scene involving the character Murtasim (played by Wahaj Ali). This development sparked a heated conversation among critics and the audience alike, leaving many shocked and bewildered.
Contrary to its fame, the inclusion of an unexpected plot twist involving marital rape in Tere Bin has significantly undermined the foundation upon which the drama's popularity was built. It has ruptured the impact of the storyline and evoked a sense of unease among the viewers. While the audience hopes and prays that the narrative does not endorse domestic violence, it is crucial to acknowledge that the viewers' trust has been compromised.
The entire plot now comes into question, leaving us pondering not only the decision of the production house but also the choices made by the actors who agreed to proceed with the script.
Murtasim's Abrupt Transformation in Tere Bin
Murtasim, the nation's heartthrob, arguably the most beloved character on Pakistani television, and to some extent, a flawless human being, evolved from a feudal lord who falls in love with his wife and transforms into a forgiving, kind-hearted man. In the process, he won the hearts of millions of viewers worldwide.
However, the sudden one-hundred-eighty-degree shift in his character in the latest episode is not only irrational and baseless but also provokes the sensibilities of many viewers. If the character had been portrayed as morally ambiguous, or internally conflicted while trying to do good, a lapse in his character might have made more sense.
The Perfect Husband Turns Rogue
The argument that suggests Murtasim never changed, from the moment he slapped Meerab before their marriage to the present day, seems somewhat flawed. The character displayed no signs of relapse and instead embodied the perfect husband, ticking all the boxes of a girl's fantasy.
While the audience might be willing to forgive Murtasim given the circumstances, the drama's creators, rightly so, may not receive such forgiveness. Firstly, there was no trigger warning or disclaimer at the beginning of the episode, nor any indication of viewer discretion advised. Even subtle hints of such sensitive scenes can be disturbing for some viewers.
If the audience has been misled for the mere sake of sensationalism and commercial gain, one must question whether it was truly worth it. The drama has already topped the charts and broken records since its premiere, yet adding an element of suspense solely for the sake of garnering views at the expense of such a sensitive topic appears unwise.
While creative freedom undoubtedly plays a significant role in the realm of dramas and films, the inclusion of such plotlines only fuels controversies and erodes the audience's trust in the creators.
Why is Tere Bin's Marital Rape Scene Different from Others?
This would not be the first time a Pakistani drama incorporates a plot involving marital rape, so why is Tere Bin being treated differently?
Over the years, discussions surrounding marital rape have arisen in Pakistani dramas such as Ranjha Ranjha Kardi and Qissa Meherbano Ka. In Ranjha Ranjha Kardi, Bhola, a mentally unstable character, is manipulated and incited by his friends, which leads to him raping his wife. In Qissa Meherbano Ka, the character Murad, who sexually assaults his wife, is depicted as outright evil, lacking any moral compass. However, in the world of Tere Bin, Murtasim is neither unstable nor morally corrupt.
The crux of the matter lies in the fact that there is no harm in portraying a morally ambiguous or evil character if they are presented as such. However, Murtasim is portrayed as a hero, and there is a likelihood of him being absolved of this crime within the drama. This normalization of such crimes and the desensitization of the public is concerning.