A mother-in-law (or ‘saas’ as we know them in the local vernacular) are often stereotyped in most Pakistani drama series. Their characters are mostly hated by the audience due to their negative portrayal. In simple terms, the characters are often portrayed as villains, manipulating their sons and being cold towards their daughters-in-law.
However, not all mothers-in-law are evil as TV writers make them out to be. They can be loving, endearing and the wisest among all of us.
Here are a few examples of the best mother-in-laws on TV:
Jiya’s Mother-In-Law – Suno Chanda
Shandana was a very likable character in Suno Chanda, even more than Jiya! It is rare to see a saas get more love from the viewers than the ‘bechari’ bahu. Part of the reason why people liked this mother-in-law was due to actress Nadia Afghan, whose humor and comic timing made audiences fall in love with Shandana.
Even though Shahdana started off the usual anti-bahu trajectory where she didn’t want her son to marry Jiya, The writers redeemed her in the second season as she became the most supportive mother-in-law. Not only that, but the character also stood by Jiya’s side and acknowledged her own son’s weaknesses to make sure she gives the best advice to her ‘bahu’.
Sadia’s Mother-In-Law – Yaariyan
In a show filled with the most negative characters on TV and a soundtrack that just makes the audience sadder, you’d think the mother-in-law would be the worst of the bunch. Well, you’re wrong! Out of all the characters in the show, actress Hina Bayat’s character was a breath of fresh air.
A well-educated businesswoman who does everything she can to be the voice of reason and bring stability between her son and her bahu. She does all that while also battling cancer. What’s not to love. Aaliya is a well-written character who is endearing and impartial. Plus credit goes to Hina Bayat for bringing class and elegance with every line she delivers for the character.
ALSO READ
6 Pakistani Dramas That Were a Major Disappointment
Rumi’s Mother-In-Law – Ishqiya
The word ‘cool’ is not something we usually associate with mother-in-laws. We can’t even say the word ‘cool’ without feeling a bit cringey or awkward. However, Seema Pasha’s character Saman is an exception. Like all usual mothers on dramas, Saman started off the same trajectory of pressurizing her son into marrying someone of her own choice. However, as soon as she accepted her son’s decision to marry Rumi, the character took a delightful turn.
A working woman, Saman knows how to stay out of her son’s marriage and make sure her daughter-in-law feels loved. Even though Rumi is not your typical ‘bahu’, Saman’s character still gives reasonable advice and attention.
Sanam’s Mother-In-Law – Dil Ruba
It seems like Hania Aamir usually gets the best ‘saas’ in most of the dramas she works in (maybe there’s something fishy about this). Dil Ruba features another great mother-in-law character in veteran actress Laila Wasti. She not just Sanam’s mother-in-law but also her ‘phupo’.
The character has been nothing but affectionate towards her ‘bahu’ from the get-go. Even though her son dies, the character continues to be supportive and caring for Sanam. Plus Laila Wasti’s demeanor and dialogue delivery prove that the veteran actress has still got it.
Dua’s Mother-In-Law – Ehd-e-Wafa
Ehd-e-Wafa was one of the popular drama series in recent memory. The show broke the usual Pakistani drama stereotypes, including the character of mothers-in-law. Saad’s mother is a refreshing character who welcomes Dua (played by Alizeh Shah) lovingly.
The character is not a typical stay-at-home saas, but has a life of her own. She’s educated and well aware of guiding her ‘bahu’ and son in the right direction.
Who did we miss out on our list? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
ALSO READ
The 5 Worst Trends in Pakistani Morning Shows [Video]
