Durefishan Saleem has found herself at the centre of an unexpected social media storm over her performance in Dar-e-Nijat, and this time, it is not the drama’s storyline that has viewers talking.
The actress is currently appearing alongside Sheheryar Munawar and Nameer Khan in the drama, where she plays Zaryab, the carefree younger daughter of a wealthy family. While the show has attracted plenty of attention for its story and performances, Durefishan’s dialogue delivery has become a major talking point online.
In particular, viewers have picked apart the English accent she uses for the character. Short clips from the drama have been circulating on social media, with one particular pronunciation of the word “fab” becoming a favourite target for trolls.
Some viewers questioned whether the accent felt natural for Zaryab, while others turned her dialogue delivery into jokes and memes.
Durefishan’s character is written as someone who has grown up in a privileged environment. Zaryab has studied at elite schools and is considering moving to the United States for further education. She is frequently shown speaking English with her sister, friends and her boyfriend Zamil, played by Nameer Khan.
The background appears to be the reason behind the character's English-heavy dialogue and accent. Still, a section of the audience has struggled to connect with the way Durefishan has portrayed it.
As the criticism grew louder, fellow actress Hania Aamir decided to step into the conversation.
