Pakistani drama Dayan, featuring Mehwish Hayat, has come under fire from local viewers for giving off strong Indian television vibes. The criticism primarily centers around the choice of wardrobe, particularly actress Hira Mani’s frequent appearance in sarees rather than traditional Pakistani outfits like salwar kameez or kurtis. Many fans compared the visual tone of Dayan to Indian serials aired on Star Plus, known for their dramatic storytelling and costume-heavy presentations.
Directed by Siraj Ul Haq, who also directed the popular drama Tere Bin, and written by Fatima Faizan and Amber Azhar, Dayan explores supernatural themes with emotional depth. Despite its unique storyline and high production value, the show has received backlash for what fans perceive as an unnecessary adoption of Indian cultural elements. The show has aired around 20 episodes since its debut on February 24, 2025, and each episode averages over 3.5 million views, showcasing its wide reach.
The series features a strong ensemble cast including Mehwish Hayat, Ahsan Khan, Hira Mani, Osama Tahir, Sohail Sameer, Zainab Qayum, and Nayyar Ejaz. However, audiences have expressed concern over how the drama portrays cultural identity, especially in a time of heightened political tensions between Pakistan and India. The use of Indian-style costumes in a Pakistani production has stirred debate on whether the drama is straying too far from its cultural roots.
Moreover, Dayan has faced criticism beyond wardrobe choices. A controversial scene involving Ahsan Khan and a pill-related storyline was deemed irrelevant by many viewers, who felt it disrupted the flow of the plot. While the drama boasts a compelling narrative and high-end visuals, many fans believe that adopting a foreign aesthetic may alienate the local audience rather than attract it.
Mehwish Hayat’s return to television through Dayan was highly anticipated. She plays Nihaal, a university student from a conservative household who struggles under the weight of patriarchal oppression. While the storyline had the potential to spark meaningful conversations, the reception has been mixed. Fans argue that embracing uniquely Pakistani storytelling elements, including traditional attire and cultural authenticity, would resonate more deeply with local audiences.
In an era where Pakistani dramas are celebrated for concise, meaningful narratives, Dayan finds itself at the center of a cultural controversy, with fans urging creators to preserve the essence of local identity while exploring modern themes.
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