Written by: Zainab Naseem
Posted on: October 10, 2019 | 
| 中文
(L to R) Osman Khalid Butt, Ahad Raza Mir, Wahaj Ali, Ahmed Ali Akbar
Every now and then, Hum TV creates a unique and creative drama that entralls audiences and creates a massive buzz on social media. Ehd-e-Wafa (The Promise of Faithfulness), is one such drama. Momina Duraid Production and Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) came together to create a wholesome, feel-good drama, revolving around friendship, family and an eternal brotherhood that cannot be broken by circumstances.
Ehd-e-Wafa was written by Mustafa Afridi of “Aangan” fame, and directed by Saife Hassan, the show features a stellar cast. This includes current superstars such as Osman Khalid Butt, Ahmed Ali Akbar, Ahad Raza Mir and Wahaj Ali as well as the timeless talents of Faraz Inam and Vaneezah Ahmed.
Set in the present day, the very first episode introduces us to the cast in a way that feels as though we have known them their whole lives. Each character’s individual personality comes across as fully developed from the first episode. Their hilarious first scene lets their chemistry shine through, and propels the audience into the world of the Special Services Group (SSG), one of the most otherwise secretive sections of the Army. This world was a welcomed change from the formulaic dramas of domestic crises and martial strife.
The SSG Gang Sitting in Their Rooms
Shahzain (Butt), Sheheryar (Akbar), Saad (Mir) and Shariq (Ali) are happy-go-lucky students who love everything, except studying. The first two episodes shines a light on Shahzain as the mastermind of antics, with Butt’s comedic timing and expressions stealing every scene. But later on, the focus shifts to Mir’s Saad as a prodigal son burdened by his father’s legacy. His father, Brigadier Faraz (played by Faraz Inam) was a pleasant surprise for the fans of the beloved 90s show, Alpha Bravo Charlie. But the writer has been constantly quoted saying that Ehd-e-Wafa is not to be seen as an Alpha Bravo Charlie reboot, despite the similar themes. Meanwhile, Ali and Akbar’s characters have yet to find their respective time in the spotlight, and the audience cannot wait to see it.
Faraz Inam as Brigadier Faraz
The boys seem a little too frivovlus at times, but for now, there is no telling where the plot will take them. They may also appear too old to play young officers, but the subtle acting, combined with characters from vastly different family backgrounds, makes one appreciate how they all come together as one solid unit.
As for the new commers, Rani (Zara Noor Abbas) gives the audience an exciting introduction, with her loud, clever, and bubbly disposition. Her screen presence feels more dynamic than that of Dua (Alizeh Shah), who had a “blink-and-you’ll-miss-it” role in the second episode. But it is established early on that Dua and Saad are meant to be together, despite Saad’s unarticulated feelings for Dua.
Zara Noor Abbas as Rani
With the help of the ISPR, the sets and uniform details are realistic and detailed. The scenes transition as if an old, retired Army Officer is reminiscing about his golden days as a young man. The drama keeps a good pace, although filler episodes are anticipated, to flesh out the relationships and individual character developments.
Three episodes in, we are expecting Vaneezah Ahmad’s long-awaited return to the small screen as Saad’s mother. Things have taken an unexpected turn for the SSG gang, particularly Saad, after a fight with Dua’s cousin Raheel. Since the police and parents are involved, this might become a problem for everyone, resulting in the dispersal of this group of friends.
The SSG Gang Fighting Dua's Cousin
For now, the SSG gang has found themselves in a precarious situation, with their families offering different reactions. As suspension appears to be an imminent possibility, viewers are desperately waiting to see how the gang manages to keep their friendship intact. Ehd-e-Wafa airs every Sunday at 8pm on HUM TV.
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