Some fans of the drama Main Manto Nahi Hoon are upset with the most recent episodes because they think they romanticise an unhealthy relationship between a university instructor and his student.
Fans are upset about the script’s hints of a possible love relationship between Manto (Humayun Saeed) and his student Mehmal (Sajal Aly).
Some people dislike how “Main Manto Nahi Hoon” hints at a romantic relationship between a student and a teacher.
Fans claim that the plot is unacceptable.
This raises concerns that unhealthy relationships between teachers and students may become the norm.
Mehmal is a young woman from a traditional, male-dominated family who wants to attend college, despite her father’s opposition.
At college, she meets Manto, a shy economics professor and writer whose name bears a resemblance to that of the renowned author Saadat Hasan Manto.
Although the drama doesn’t explicitly depict a romantic confession, one could interpret several scenes and lines of conversation in that way.
One event that garnered a lot of attention was when Mehmal’s aunt made fun of her for talking about her teacher excessively, which seemed to be a sign of a growing crush.
In another heated scene, Manto protects Mehmal from Farhaad, the son of an enemy of her father, who is being mean to her. Later, Farhaad’s guards attack Manto, saying that it was an act of sacrifice.
This episode makes people wonder even more about the nature of their relationship.
Responses on social media have been quick and harsh. Many people are criticising both the plot and the choice of famous stars to support it.
Some people on YouTube appreciated the high production standards and strong performances, but they disliked the teacher-student relationship, particularly given the significant age difference.
Some people even hoped that Mehmal would become back together with her fiancé instead of going down the path she was on with her older professor.
Preserving Integrity in Education: A Cultural Perspective
Some people argue that exposing these kinds of dynamics could compromise the cultural and moral integrity of the teacher-student relationship.
“Teachers are spiritual parents,” one watcher said. Students should treated with respect. The plot of this story is disappointing.
Another person advised others to report the drama, suggesting that it could help establish acceptable social norms.