Pakistani dramas are known for their emotional storytelling, social messages, and powerful performances. Among many dramas, Nanhi (2013) stood out as one of the most heart-touching shows. Airing on Geo TV, the serial explored deep human emotions and raised questions about love, obsession, and motherhood. Even after more than a decade, Nanhi remains a drama that audiences still discuss, especially because of its unusual storyline and unforgettable performances.
This blog post takes you through the complete story, review, characters, and hidden lessons behind this drama.
Cast and Crew
The drama had a strong cast that brought the emotional script to life.
- Sajal Aly as Nanhi – The main character who was kidnapped as a child and raised with distorted beliefs.
- Javeria Abbasi as Shamsa – A complex woman who kidnapped Nanhi and raised her as her own daughter.
- Shahood Alvi as Rehaan – A kind-hearted journalist who eventually helps Nanhi.
- Other Supporting Cast – Included talented names who added depth to the story.
Writer: Sameera Fazal
Director: Haseeb Hassan
Production: 7th Sky Entertainment
Plot Overview – The Story of Nanhi
The story of this drama revolves around a girl named Nanhi (Sajal Aly) who was kidnapped as a child by a woman named Shamsa (Javeria Abbasi). Shamsa raised her with love but also with manipulation. She grew up thinking of Shamsa as her “mother,” not realizing she was a victim of abduction.
As Nanhi grew older, her desire for love and motherhood became her obsession. She wanted to have a child of her own, not out of natural growth but because she was raised with twisted beliefs. When she met Rehaan (Shahood Alvi), a journalist, her life took a new turn.
The drama beautifully yet painfully explored Nanhi’s struggles—her desire to be accepted, her desperate need for love, and her journey from darkness to truth.
Character Analysis
1. Nanhi (Sajal Aly)
Sajal Aly gave one of her finest performances as Nanhi. She portrayed innocence, obsession, and desperation with such perfection that viewers couldn’t help but feel sympathy for her. Her character represented the damage caused when children are denied a normal, nurturing environment.
2. Shamsa (Javeria Abbasi)
Shamsa’s role was layered. She loved Nanhi in her own way but also destroyed her life by stealing her from her real parents. Her actions raised an important question: Can love born out of a crime ever be justified?
3. Rehaan (Shahood Alvi)
Rehaan’s role was that of light in Nanhi’s dark world. As a journalist, he not only uncovered Nanhi’s truth but also guided her toward a better life. His presence in the story was a symbol of hope and justice.
Themes
1. Motherhood
The drama asked deep questions about motherhood. Is being a mother only about giving birth, or about raising a child with love and honesty? Shamsa raised Nanhi but built her life on lies, while she longed to become a mother herself.
2. Obsession vs. Love
Nanhi’s desire to have a child showed how love can turn into obsession when not guided by truth. Her desperate attempts were heartbreaking and highlighted the psychological trauma she carried.
3. Truth and Justice
The drama also reflected on the importance of truth. Lies and manipulation might give temporary comfort, but they eventually destroy lives.
Hidden Lessons
Pakistani dramas often carry social messages, and this drama was full of lessons.
- Child abduction ruins lives – Raising a child without their real identity creates lifelong trauma.
- A lie cannot replace truth – Shamsa’s love was built on a lie, which destroyed Nanhi’s sense of reality.
- Society must understand trauma – Instead of judging people like Nanhi, society needs to help and heal them.
- Motherhood is sacred – It’s about nurturing, not controlling.
- Hope exists – Through characters like Rehaan, the drama showed that help and kindness can change lives.
Review of Nanhi
When this drama aired in 2013, it quickly gained attention for its unique storyline. Unlike typical love stories, this drama focused on psychological and social issues.
- Acting: Sajal Aly’s performance was widely praised. Many critics called it a “career-defining role” for her.
- Writing: Sameera Fazal’s script was bold and emotional, making the audience cry and think deeply.
- Direction: Haseeb Hassan handled the sensitive story carefully, keeping it engaging yet emotional.
- Reception: The drama was critically acclaimed, though it also received some criticism for its dark theme.
Why Nanhi Still Matters in These days
Even though this drama aired in 2013, its story is still relevant today. Child kidnapping, broken families, and the struggle of identity remain real issues in our society. The drama continues to be remembered as a bold experiment in Pakistani television.
Legacy of Nanhi
Nanhi gave the industry:
- A career milestone for Sajal Aly who proved her range as an actress.
- A bold reminder that Pakistani dramas can go beyond romance and explore serious social topics.
- Conversations about children’s rights and mental health.
Conclusion
This drama was more than just a TV serial. It was a mirror showing us how a single crime can shatter many lives. With unforgettable performances, especially by Sajal Aly, the drama became one of the most memorable serials of 2013. It taught us lessons about truth, motherhood, and healing. Even after more than ten years, This drama remains a timeless Pakistani drama—one that people remember for its emotional depth and powerful storytelling.
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