Zindagi Gulzar Hai: Examining the Real and Hypocritical Aspects of South Asian Society

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Is there anything in Zindagi Gulzar Hai that you disagree with? It's a question worth exploring, as the show, while undeniably compelling and beautiful, does not escape criticism. In this article, we delve into the key issues raised by the show, particularly concerning gender roles and societal expectations, and examine whether the portrayal contradicts the intended message.

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Real vs. Hypocritical Portrayal

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Holding the title 'Zindagi Gulzar Hai' or 'Life Quilt' accurately reflects the ending of Kashaf's journey from sorrow to gratitude. From this perspective, the show effectively portrays the narrative arc of its female protagonist. Kashaf's journey through struggles to gratitude, especially as her perspective shifts, is poignantly real, indicative of her character's development. The ending’s sentiment shows that the show is true to its title, and this resonated well with the intended audience.

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However, the portrayal of social issues in the show imposes a degree of contradiction. Although the show highlights various societal issues, such as the chauvinistic attitudes of Zaroon, it also brings to the forefront an ingrained problem in South Asian society – the dichotomy in gender roles. Zaroon’s emphasis on women maintaining domestic duties, such as cooking and serving husbands, even in the presence of servants, is a classic example of this contradiction. The show promotes progress in one area (women’s education and independence) but undermines efforts in another (shared domestic responsibilities).

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Gender Roles and Housework

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The specific disagreement I have with the show revolves around Zaroon’s teachings about a woman’s role as a housewife and cook. This aspect of the narrative promotes a skewed view of gender roles, indicating that a wife should be solely responsible for cooking and entertaining her husband, even if they both have careers. This traditional mindset is widespread in South Asian societies. While the show tackles women’s empowerment and education, it seems hypocritical to insist on a wife's subservience in the domestic sphere, despite their professional success. For example, the character of Rafia teaches Kashaf these roles, yet we see no shift in her own behavior, leaving an unresolved subplot.

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This viewpoint extends to the portrayal of independent women in Zaroon's world. The notion that a woman's success must come at the cost of her family and children is deeply problematic. Traditional societies often emphasize that a wife should support the household, but what about the husband's role in domestic affairs? If a woman works, shouldn't the husband share these responsibilities? The show's portrayal of these dynamics feels contradictory, as it hovers between promoting women's empowerment and preserving traditional gender roles.

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Overall Praise and Criticism

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Despite these areas of criticism, Zindagi Gulzar Hai is a remarkable series. The dialogues crafted by the writers are overwhelmingly heartfelt. Kashaf's voice conveys a depth of emotion that touches the viewer. Her journey from despair to thankfulness is impactful. Even my own tears felt genuine, adding to the emotional resonance of the finale.

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I had initially overlooked Zaroon’s chauvinistic tendencies, assuming the show catered to a conservative audience in Pakistan. This dismissal allowed me to appreciate the beauty of the drama and the heavenly dialogues that permeate the series. The show's dedication to showcasing the intricacies of personal and societal growth, albeit fraught with contradictions, cannot be understated.

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In conclusion, while Zindagi Gulzar Hai is a wonderful show that effectively captures real-life struggles and transformations, it cannot escape criticism regarding its portrayal of gender roles and societal expectations. The show's attempts to promote progress in certain areas are undermined by its adherence to traditional norms, making for a complex and multi-faceted viewing experience.