‘Ishq Murshid’ (Finale Review): An Apt Conclusion To A Captivating Narrative

Bilal Abbas Khan and Dur-e-Fishan Saleem’s ‘Ishq Murshid’ has finally concluded. The drama serial was lauded by critics and audiences alike with its unique plot, superlative directions and crackling chemistry between the lead pair. Below we look at the merits and demerits of ‘Ishq Murshid’.

The Finale

Shibra (Dur-e-Fishan Saleem) is not willing to forgive Shahmeer (Bilal Abbas Khan). She assumes that he could have done something to save her father Suleman (Noor ul Hassan). Shahmeer is confused and desperate to know about the murderer of Suleman and his own mother Zubaida (Samiya Mumtaz). Faraz (Awais Sulaman) manages to find the real culprit i.e. Haroon (Adnan Jafar). Shahmeer repeats history and kills him exactly the way Haroon killed Zubaida. Shibra comes to know about the reality and forgives her husband.

The Bankable Bilal Abbas Khan

We would be surprised if Bilal wouldn’t sweep every best actor trophy next season. The actor works on his craft big time and that shows in every performance. He brings to the table something unique, interesting and wholesome every time. He effortlessly carried ‘Ishq Murshid’ on his shoulders. As, Fazal Baksh and Shameer Sikandar, Bilal Abbas was simply a revelation.

The Lucky Charm Dur-e-Fishan Saleem

Within a short period, Dure Fishan has cemented her position in the big league of actors. Suddenly, she has become the good-luck charm of the industry. All her recent projects ‘Jaisay Aapki Marzi’, ‘Khaee’ and ‘Ishq Murshid’ have been clean hits. Her knack for smelling food scripts is her biggest strength. As Shibra, she was an inspiration to young girls of how one can be determined to live life on their terms.

The Unique World Of Farooq Rind

Director Farooq Rind is like Bollywood’s Vishal Bhardwaj. The way he creates a unique world surrounded with mysterious characters with ample layers is commendable to see. ‘Pyar Ke Sadqay’ and now ‘Ishq Murshid’, this is Rind’s second outing with Bilal. The director utilizes his potential to the fullest and creates a unique double role that will stay in our memories for a long time. Not just his protagonist, but the supporting characters of his world stand out too. Haroon, Suleman, Sukaina, Dawood, Zubaida and Fazal Bakhsh contribute to taking the narrative forward. One gets completely immersed in his unconventional world rooting for more.

The Hiccups

It is high time that the writers and directors should take a stand and say no to the drag fest trend. What happens is that when the channels force them to stretch the narrative to fetch ratings and viewership on YouTube, the proceedings lose fizz. From episode 17 to 23, ‘Ishq Murshid’ was completely dragged with unnecessary tracks. This eventually affected the crucial finale as all the tracks were wrapped up within no time. What happened to Mehreen’s (Hira Tareen) character? She was the antagonist and her track ended abruptly. Another interesting character was Maliha (Srha Asghar), we wish that her character had more flesh and screen time.

Is Season 2 On The Cards?

Summing it up, ‘Ishq Murshid’ was a delightful watch. The last episode leaves a major hint at season 2. If that is the case, we are up to witness the magic of Shibra and Shameer again.