Ishq E Laa ep 3 was yet another brilliant episode and is over all, not just a drama, but the reality of life through powerful characterization. The impact of class difference on one’s self-esteem and mental health between the rich and the poor, which Azka expresses through her feelings and reflects upon every time she confronts Azlaan, is food for thought. While Azlaan continues to live in the shadow of his inflated ego and use his privilege, worrying everyone around him, we also have Shanaya, who is bold and edgy when it comes to revealing the truth, both in her personal and professional life, but she’s also apologetic for others wrongdoings,
Therefore, all the 3 characters in Ishq E Laa ep 3 are polar opposites in ways that make them unique in their traits, but each one of them has their flaws as well.
Ps. You can read Ishq E Laa ep 2 review here
AZKA & AZLAN HAVE A FACE-OFF
Last night’s episode was a major face-off between Azlan and Azka, one that forced Azka to step up and take charge of how no one has the right to belittle her existence no matter how entitled they are. Azlaan’s treatment of Azka and views on their existence on the social continuum continues to haunt Azka. We loved the profoundness of the conversation between Azka and Khatija and the way they highlight that Allah has made all of us as one and is testing each one of us through hardships and struggles. And that the power of prayer can either make us or break us. So, the deeply ingrained spiritual lessons throughout Ishq E Laa ep 3 are reminders of the greatness of Allah! It has been interesting to see Azka and Azlaan interact, in a way I find these two alike, stubborn and staunch about their ideas and the way things should be, so neither one is afraid to stand up for themselves.
Furthermore, the incident that involved Azlan and his friend, which unfortunately is also another side of the harsh reality and one that does happen, I did question Azlaan’s mothers intention of wanting Azka to serve them because she is “saleeqay wali”? Overall, Azka came out strong in this particular scene and showed how overbearing Azlaan and refuted his mother, who felt completely helpless. What shapes any human being are his values, upbringing, education and what he’s exposed to. So I’m trying to understand Azlaan’s character because like everyone says, he’s harsh, but he’s a nice guy, which doesn’t add up (at least not just yet!)
SHANAYA DOESN’T SEE AZLAN’S “RED FLAGS”
Shanaya is effortless and sweet, and I love how she’s committed to exposing the jaded and ugly side of society despite the dangers that ensue. So, her wit and dauntlessness is an admirable trait. But in her personal life, where she’s “sort of” trapped in unrequited love is a bit surprising. Honestly, Azlaan is toxic guy by today’s standards but Shanaya does not see all the “red flags” that Azlaan blatantly puts out there. Since they’ve been friends such a long time and it’s evident that Azlaan likes her just as a friend, but Shanaya’s character is ready to give him time so open up and take the conversation from there. Azlaan knows what he wants and Shanaya, it seems is willing to wait for him all the while pursuing her work. So, apart from the fact that they both only agree for the sake of their “friendship” (because they have severally opposing views), I wonder how their guided tracks will lead to one path.
AZKA & SHANAYA MEET
The much-awaited confrontation and meeting between Azka and Shanaya; the 2 ladies who are unafraid and not easily intimidated by anyone came together for Azlaan’s sake. Sajal’s powerful dialogue delivery over Azlaan’s unforgiving behaviour while she asked Azka to forgive him made a lot of sense. Both, Azka and Shanaya were quick enough to let the other person know of their place in this equation as one defended and the other rejected Azlaan’s behavior. And yet again, the strong religious references add more light and depth to everything that is happening.
OUR VERDICT
Ishq E Laa ep 3 has taken an interesting pace, setting up the stage for the “real” journey once it begins. Azka and Azlan got more screen time, which made me wonder the producers intention for their track. Also the dialogues were easily to grasp and carried weight in certain situations which seemed pretty realistic. So I’m genuinely looking forward to their journeys that Ishq e Laa promises us. Other than that, both Sajal Aly and Yumna Zaidi gave outstanding performances.
Watch Ishq E Laa ep 3 here
