Durefishan Saleem reflects on ‘Jaisay Aapki Marzi’ as popular drama ends

Jaisay Aapki Marzi, the critically-acclaimed drama series that shed light on narcissistic abuse, ended its run on Tuesday, leaving viewers with a thought-provoking message about the dynamics of unhealthy relationships.

Led by the stellar performances of Durefishan Saleem and Mikaal Zulfiqar, this gripping drama series resonated with viewers not only for its emotional depth but also for its unflinching portrayal of toxic control tactics and gaslighting within relationships.

The drama poignantly portrays how, even in seemingly healthy relationships, women can face insidious emotional abuse like gaslighting and isolation.

It emphasises the crucial role of support networks in empowering victims to break free from such harmful relationships.

Portraying ‘Alizeh,’ a woman trapped in a cycle of emotional abuse, Durefishan Saleem expressed gratitude at the opportunity to shed light on a complex issue, thanking the writer for crafting a compelling script.

She turned to Instagram to express her thoughts as her popular drama came to a close,  she wrote in her caption, “Often consider my self ALLAH’s lucky one -we all are though but for the times I have asked Him for the impossible and for the times He has given me/shown me/made paths/open doors/closed doors makes me more firm on this. Jaisa apki marzi came to me while I was doing pardes - @sanam_zaryab narated me with all the zest and enthusiasm and after an yearrrr we were on set with the @sabahamid_21 JAM (Jaisay Aapki Marzi) is what it is becuase of all the women behind it -Naila Ansari -Thankyou Naila jee for always thinking of me when writing such scripts.”

The ‘Ishq Murshid’ actor urged society to be more understanding of women in emotionally manipulative relationships who experience a shattering of self-esteem and erosion of their sense of identity.

She stated, “To all my Alizeh’s - the journey starts now-kind of wish Naila jee had written few episodes where we were told the real journey which starts post existing from an abusive relationship- the trauma,the insecurities, the societal pressure,loss of sense of value ,trust issues and much more that many of you know .May we all be more emphatic and less judgemental towards the Alizeh’s of our world. Grateful and only grateful for all the love.”

Earlier, in an interview, Mikaal Zulfiqar opened up about his portrayal of 'Sherry,' a narcissistic husband who consistently manipulates his wife.

He also emphasised the importance of not overlooking red flags in a relationship, stating, "People often don't take action when they observe red flags in their relationships. Many women related to the drama, saying, 'My husband used to do the same,' and shared their painful experiences, which saddened me as well."

Mikaal clarified that the message is pertinent to men as well, as women can also exhibit toxic behaviour.

Fans showered the drama with praise for its captivating story and its nuanced portrayal of the emotional impact of narcissistic abuse on women in relationships.