Fans Raise Concerns Over Student-Teacher Storyline in Main Manto Nahi Hoon
The Pakistani drama Main Manto Nahi Hoon has stirred a strong reaction online, with viewers questioning its portrayal of a student-teacher dynamic. The criticism focuses on the growing closeness between the lead characters, Manto (played by Humayun Saeed) and Mehmal (Sajal Ali).
The storyline centres on Mehmal, a young woman from an oppressive household who defies her father to pursue higher education. At university, she meets Manto, an introverted writer and economics professor whose name evokes the iconic literary figure.
Recent episodes have hinted at a romantic undertone. Scenes showing Mehmal’s aunt teasing her about a crush and Manto rescuing her from her aggressive cousin Farhaad (Azaan Sami Khan) have been noted by viewers. These developments have left many uncomfortable, particularly due to the significant age difference between the characters and the power imbalance implied.
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Comments across Instagram and YouTube reveal growing discontent. Some followers criticised the cast for endorsing the storyline, suggesting that top actors should reject roles normalising such themes. Others emphasised the respect associated with student-teacher relationships, warning that such depictions could undermine trust in academic spaces.
One user described the writing as “disappointing despite strong performances and high production value,” while another questioned why respected actors were involved in scripts they found “damaging.”
Written by Khalil-ur-Rehman Qamar and directed by Nadeem Baig, the show also features Sanam Saeed, Asif Raza Mir, Saba Hamid, Saba Faisal, Saima Noor and Azaan Sami Khan. It airs on ARY Digital and is produced by Six Sigma Plus and Next Level Entertainment.
