Framing Faith and Femininity: Serene Jones’ Feminist Theological Perspective on ‘Parsa’ and ‘Zara Yaad Kar’ Drama Serials

Abstract

Aim of the Study: This study examines the ways in which the Pakistani television dramas have influenced the societal understanding of gender by supporting the patriarchal beliefs using religious symbolism. With the emphasis on Parsa (2010) and Zara Yaad Kar (2016), the paper examines the ways in which the media discourse incorporates cultural and theological imagery to promote male domination. In these plays, men are also shown as symbolic lords or ethical protectors, Majazi Khuda who saves the women by getting married in a way that promotes traditional gender relationships Mawaddah or Rahmah.

Methodology: Based on Feminist Theology, the research incorporates the methodological approach that was used by Serene Jones, which is deconstruction, contextualization and agency to analyze how religious discourses are used to perpetuate patriarchal ideologies in marital relationships, especially in the discourse of Qawwamah.

Findings: It has been analyzed that these dramas are not only a reflection but also an active constructive influence of social beliefs through portraying gender inequality as a divinely authorized one, and inculcating the cultural norms in the theological discourse.

Conclusion: These images support the collapsing of cultural patriarchy together with religious morality as the naturalization of domination of women as a divine order. This research demands critical media interaction and creation of inclusive televisual discourses to go beyond the patriarchal dichotomies, to support agency of the women and encourage fair interpretation of faith within the modern Pakistani society.