Of TikTok dreams, family drama and secrets: ‘Tan Man Neel O Neel’ redefines Pakistani television

What happens when TikTok dreams, family drama, and a secret on the verge of explosion collide? Tan Man Neel O Neel reminds us that life’s most colourful moments often come in shades of blue.

Tan Man Neel O Neel is one of the best Pakistani dramas airing right now. It follows a young girl using TikTok in the hopes of becoming famous, with support from her family. The parents encourage their children to pursue careers in the arts. The drama also explores a mature married couple dealing with a lack of affection, a father-daughter confrontation highlighting fatherhood responsibilities, and a secret on the brink of revelation.

When Rabi tells her father, Ehassan, that Kami threatened her, it shakes him out of his silence. Rabi wants her father to meet Sonu, a potential husband, and she expresses her frustration with his lack of communication.

Fathers in dramas are usually portrayed as either very loving or very strict. However, Ehassan is lost in his own world. Silence alone isn’t good parenting, as Rabi demonstrates. Communication is key.

It’s refreshing to see mature married relationships depicted in dramas. Parents and grandparents are often shown in relationships lacking affection or passion. Mehnaaz craves affection and feels deprived when she doesn’t receive it.

Women her age often choose silence over bitterness, but Mehnaaz stays positive. Her bond with Rabi shows that marriage is work, even later in life. The scene in which Ehsaan and Mehnaz reach out to each other is beautifully performed by Naumaan Masood and Nadia Afgan.

Rabi’s heartfelt song on social media isn’t easy for her. Kami, on the other hand, believes that women should stay away from social media to maintain their reputation. His negative words reflect a mindset that many people share. 

However, Tan Man Neel O Neel shows that the older generation can hold progressive views, while younger ones can sometimes have regressive opinions. Rabi’s message to read the positive comments as well subtly shifts the narrative toward hope and change.

Tan Man Neel O Neel challenges societal norms and delivers outstanding performances from the entire team.