Pakistani TV dramas have been stirring controversy lately, with channels seemingly intent on pushing the envelope of what’s deemed acceptable.
In their quest to outclass each other and boost ratings, producers and writers often cross the line between social norms and sensationalism.
This week, however, MUN TV’s new drama series Sotan has crossed a line, sparking widespread public anger.
The main cause of the uproar is Sotan’s distorted portrayal of Islamic marriage teachings, particularly the sacred rule of polygamy. In Islamic tradition, a man can have multiple wives only if he’s absolutely sure he can treat them all fairly and equally, maintaining justice between them.
It’s a serious responsibility not to be taken lightly or used for selfish reasons. Yet, Sotan blatantly ignores this principle in its first two episodes, showing the main character, Azad (played by well-known actor Ally Khan), marrying a second wife out of pure spite.
Azad’s reason for doing a second marriage isn’t based on compassion or need. Instead, he marries Aiza (played by Kanwal Khan), a close friend of his daughter, to get revenge on his first wife, Faiqa (Saleena Sipra).
Faiqa, a manipulative and toxic character, is shown as a bitter woman who seems to live to make others miserable, especially her husband and daughter-in-law.
While viewers might understand Azad’s frustration with Faiqa, using marriage as a weapon of revenge is a deeply disturbing distortion of what should be a just and solemn religious practice.
What makes this storyline even more concerning is that Islam not only sets strict rules for men wanting to marry more than once but also stresses that such marriages should help those needing protection and support.
Widows, orphans, and women without means are often mentioned as those who might find security in such arrangements. In Sotan, however, Azad’s second wife isn’t a vulnerable woman needing support. She’s his daughter’s young friend, drawn into this morally questionable relationship without good reason.
This portrayal not only raises eyebrows but also stirs up moral disgust. How has a man who represents maturity and strength become the perpetrator of such a devious plot?
Sotan seems more interested in creating controversy and shock than in offering a thoughtful, respectful depiction of Islamic traditions and values.
The way Sotan handles polygamy in Islam turns a complex religious rule into a cheap TV drama. Islamic marriage should be about respect and fairness, but here it’s used for revenge and deceit.
Using marriage to get back at someone goes against what it stands for and sends a bad message to viewers who might already be confused about polygamy in Islam.
This brings up a bigger question about TV dramas and their responsibility. When does entertainment go too far and start misrepresenting things? By twisting religious values for drama, Sotan has rightly faced a lot of criticism.
The question is: Is it worth sacrificing the integrity of faith and its teaching just to get more viewers?
