‘Main Manto Nahi Hoon’ Faces Backlash Over Bizarre Plot Twist

ISLAMABAD: The latest episode of Main Manto Nahi Hoon has sparked a wave of criticism and confusion among viewers, as the drama took an unexpected and controversial turn into a puzzling teacher-student love story.

Once celebrated for its sharp dialogues and meaningful narrative, the show is now being accused of losing direction and leaning into sensationalism. Episode 24, in particular, left fans bewildered after the central character, Manto, abruptly proposed to Mehmal — a development many called awkward, forced, and out of character.

Viewers took to social media to express their frustration. One comment read, “Did Khalilur Rehman Qamar write this while being drunk?” while another called the exchange between Manto and Siraj Amritsari “cringe-worthy.” Others went as far as to describe the show as “wahiyat” (nonsensical) and “a substandard love story.”

Critics also targeted the lack of character development and implausible romantic arc, with many saying the show never built a believable connection between the two leads. Mehmal, once a complex character, is now being called “the most desperate woman to ever exist,” while Manto — originally meant to symbolize bold artistic truth — seems sidelined in a shallow romantic plot.

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The drama, initially praised for its literary aspirations and a subtle homage to Saadat Hasan Manto, is now being labelled a major disappointment. What started as a promising exploration of truth, art, and societal critique has, according to many fans, descended into incoherent storytelling that no longer respects its original premise.

As backlash continues to mount, viewers are questioning whether Main Manto Nahi Hoon can recover its once-powerful voice — or if it has strayed too far to be saved.