Shikanja Episode 03 [Eng Sub] - Azekah Daniel - Asad Siddiqui - Washma Fatima - 15th November 2025

No one so much as spoke to Mom at the dinner party the other day. Now they hear she has a fever and are suddenly rushing over? If you ask me, they're up to no good.

Oh, stop it, Fizza. You don't always have to see the negative side of things. You shouldn't be so quick to judge.

I'm not being negative. It's just that this Rani. .

. Rida! Brother, you're back with the things?

Yes, I gave Aunt her things. She's calling for you. I'll be right there, just let me finish making these yogurt dumplings.

Listen, there's no need to go to all this trouble, okay? Of course, we have to, Brother. After all, our guests are V.

I. P. s.

How so? Rani and her mom are coming over. So, what do you think of Rani, Brother?

She could become our sister-in-law, you know. Fizza. .

. what's she saying? She's waiting to hear what you think.

Whatever makes my sister happy. . .

makes me happy. Really? Yes.

-Oh, Brother. . .

-Alright, that's enough chatter. Come on, we still need to get the things from downstairs. Brother.

. . Rida.

Rida, listen to me. Rida, why didn't you let me talk to Brother? Wait a second.

Fizza. . .

how much do you love Brother? Question after question. Answer me.

You know very well how much I love him. He isn't just our big brother. He's like a father to us.

Fine. Then remember this. You don't put the people you love through trials.

What do you mean? Am I putting him through a trial? Yes.

Fizza, I've seen the love for Rani in Brother Saqib's eyes. Just imagine, if he got the slightest hint that you don't like her. .

. he would just bury his feelings deep inside. Is that what you want?

No, I. . .

I don't want that. Okay. Then whatever reservations you have about Rani, keep them to yourself.

Don't bring them up with Brother. And stop worrying so much. It'll all work out, hmm?

Well, now, isn't that a sight to relish? Our kitchen is positively buzzing today. And it smells incredible.

You're making me starve. Come on, just one kebab? Thank you.

By the way. . .

what's all the fanfare for? Special occasion? Sister-in-law Rani and her family are coming.

Sister-in-law Rani? Wait, so it's a done deal already? If it's been decided, consider it done.

Okay, but tell me, has Saqib spoken to Fizza about this? I've talked Fizza around, and I think she gets it now. I told her that it's wrong to be suspicious of everyone.

Rida. That's not very nice. You shouldn't say that.

Why? Did I say something wrong? As if you could ever say anything wrong.

Harsh words just don't suit you. Okay, I'm sorry if that came out wrong. Not at all.

Besides, as far as I'm concerned, I'd forgive you a hundred times over. Arham! Can't you hear the doorbell?

Go and get the gate, our guests have arrived. -I'm so sorry. -Hurry up.

Right away. And you should come out too. Everything's ready, let's go.

Where's Fizza? Aunt, she went upstairs to check on Mom. Oh, never mind that.

You come out, now. Hurry, the guests are here. Greetings.

How are you? I'm well, and yourself? How are you, Fizza?

I'm good, thanks. How is Aunt Tahira? I heard she came down with something so suddenly.

She was perfectly alright. It really worried me. Yes, she suddenly came down with a fever.

Greetings, sir. How are you? Greetings.

Please, just call me Zaroon. Don't be so formal. Oh, it's not that, sir.

I have a great deal of respect for you and for your profession. Arham, this is Zaroon. ASP Zaroon.

Greetings. How are you? I'm good.

I'd like to see Aunt Tahira first. Sure, let me take you to her. Come on.

-These are for her. -Yeah, thank you. This way.

Fizza? Yes? Did you go see Aunt Zakiya?

I was going to, but she and Aunt were in the middle of a private conversation, so I thought it best to wait. Fizza, she was making a point to tell everyone out there that you walked right past her into the kitchen without even a greeting. I can't believe it.

Do these people really keep tabs on such petty things? Look, Fizza, something that seems trivial to us can be a big deal to others. Now, please, just go and say hello, alright?

Go on. Who on earth is ringing the doorbell like that? And why isn't anyone answering?

I wonder who could be here at this hour. Who are you? Speak up.

Who are you? I'm here with sir. -What, sir?

-I'm with sir. Sir! What, sir?

Who the hell is your sir? Speak up! What are you doing in my house?

-Sir! -Tell me! Saqib, let go of him.

He works for me. What's wrong with you? Sorry, I didn't know, sir.

Show me these documents. How did you get in? Sir, I'd been ringing the bell for a while.

When no one came, I stepped inside. The young lady saw me and screamed in horror. -I didn't do a thing, sir, I swear.

-Alright, it's okay. You can go now. Go.

What happened with Rida? Don't you worry, she'll be alright. She just gets frightened easily.

I think she just got a scare, that's all. Who was she scared of? The thing is, Zakiya, she struggles with some psychological issues.

Still, Auntie. . .

I hope you don't mind me saying this, but you've tethered your only son's future to a girl like that. Don't you think that's unfair to him? Not at all, Rani.

Arham himself is very fond of Rida. We practically decided on their match when they were children. Besides, Rida is incredibly sensible, exceptionally capable, and so loving.

But most importantly, she is completely devoted. A daughter-in-law that dutiful is a rare blessing, you know. That may all be true, Shehnaz, but her lack of self-confidence overshadows all of those qualities.

Believe me, girls like that make for terrible wives and daughters-in-law. Take yourself, for example. In this whole family, you're the epitome of courage.

The way you've handled everything. . .

If you were as timid as Rida, do you think you could have managed any of it? Everything will be fine, Zakiya. I'll go and check on her.

Yes, dear. Go and see how she's doing now. Relax.

-Everything's okay. -Don't worry, everything is going to be alright. Rida, here, have some water.

Brother. . .

-Yes? -Brother. .

. That man. .

. I got scared of him. You weren't scared at all.

Drnk some water first. That's it. Good girl.

There you go. Now listen to me. That was Zaroon's man.

He just came to drop off a file. He didn't do anything to you. Okay?

There's nothing to worry about. You are so brave, aren't you? Nothing happened, don't worry.

Come on, get up. Let's go inside. Get up.

Come on, up you go. It's okay, she just gets worked up sometimes, poor thing. It's nothing serious.

Shall we head inside? After you. What was the need to call Gul Khan there?

Oh, come on. How was I supposed to know all this would happen? Hmm.

You were trying to impress Fizza, right? Are you out of your mind? I have no idea what you're talking about.

And why would I try to impress her? I know exactly what I'm talking about, trust me. Wait a minute.

Why would he try to impress Fizza? Just drop it, Mom. You need to talk to Aunt Shehnaz yourself, please.

Me? Myself? No, dear.

They're the ones who should bring up the proposal. Mom, please, can we move past these old-fashioned ideas? Girls these days don't let a good opportunity pass them by.

Hold on a second. . .

So this is what this is all about? You turned out to be quite sharp, huh? Yes.

Because in this fast-paced world, a girl needs to be sharp too. And let me speak to Mom. Please stop distracting me.

I have no desire to distract you. You're already quite distracted. In fact, I'm just hoping you get married soon so I can finally get my turn.

Yes. Because you see me as an obstacle in your way, right? What is wrong with you?

I was just joking. Why do you have to be so serious? Oh, enough.

Why are you two bickering like children? Mom, I've told you my decision. The rest is up to you.

And what if they refuse? Refuse? Me?

Impossible. What happened in front of our guests today. .

. It shouldn't have happened. And there's no guarantee it won't happen again.

So, Aunt, what do you suggest? What's the solution here? What can we do?

Saqib, every time you've mentioned taking Rida to a psychologist, I have always been against it. I thought that. .

. seeing a psychologist would only make the problem worse. But I was wrong, son.

I think we need to get her to a good psychologist as soon as we can. Wait. .

. hold on, Aunt. Who has been talking to you about this?

No one. Just think about it for yourself. Her fear isn't subsiding, is it?

Her condition keeps deteriorating over and over. It's not a good sign, son. Mom, you know just as well as we all do that her condition doesn't worsen without a reason.

Of course, I know that, son. But. .

. we still have to get her treated for it, don't we? You're absolutely right.

I'll make an appointment with a good psychologist tomorrow and take her. Okay? Alright, son.

Okay. Go and get some rest. Yeah, I will.

Okay then. Mom. Tell me something.

Who is it that's been putting these ideas in your head? Because this doesn't sound like you at all. What's that supposed to mean, Arham?

You know perfectly well. Rida has reacted much worse than this before, but you've never once mentioned taking her to a psychologist until now. That's because, son, it was a private matter we kept within the family.

But. . .

I realize now that I was wrong. We should have gotten Rida treatment a long time ago. Just think about it, if she carries on like this.

. . she'll just keep making a spectacle of herself in front of everyone.

Arham. Arham, please don't misunderstand me, son. Rida is very dear to me.

And the proof of my love is that despite everything, she's still my daughter-in-law. For Rida's own good and her well-being, we have to take this step so she doesn't spend the rest of her life hiding from people. You understand what I'm saying, don't you, Arham?

Yes, I understand. Hello. Hi.

Um. . .

sorry, were you sleeping? I hope I didn't disturb you. No, not at all.

I was awake. You're worried about Rida, aren't you? I was really worried about her, too.

How is she now? She's fine. Then why do you sound so troubled?

Rani. . .

she's clearly traumatized. Her treatment needs to start as soon as possible. That's a good decision.

That's what I was thinking too. I know, but. .

. I'm scared. I don't know how she's going to react.

If you approach her gently and with love, she'll come around without getting upset. It's a real shame, actually. We never even talked to her about her mental health.

Don't worry, Saqib. If you'll let me, I could try talking to her? You'd talk to her?

Sorry. . .

I just hate hearing you so worried. Thank you, Rani. Your words have given me so much strength.

You love your family very much, don't you? Rani. .

. I love my mother and sisters more than anything. Ever since Dad passed away.

. . I'm all they have.

Their father. . .

and their big brother. You're such a good man. The people you love are incredibly lucky.

Yes, the people I love are certainly lucky. But the ones who love me. .

. they're just as fortunate. I have to admit, you're very clever.

Thank you, thank you. You're quite clever yourself. Ahem.

Ah, give it here. Thank you. Fizza.

Have a seat. I need to talk to you. Yes, Brother?

Fizza, what are your reservations about Rani? What makes you think I have a problem with her? I heard what you said to Rida.

Come on. Just be straight with me. Fizza, Mom's opinion, and yours mean the world to me.

So, please. . .

Brother, do you like Rani? There's nothing not to like about her. But still, your opinion matters.

Brother. Actually, I'm afraid that. .

. she might steal you away from us. What?

What are you saying? Have I ever failed to show you my love? Brother, your love has always been more than enough.

That's precisely why I'm worried. You haven't just been an older brother to us. You've also filled our father's shoes.

Brother, we don't want to lose you. I just have a feeling that you're rushing into this. Fizza, I promise I will never let you down.

I'd never make a decision that would create a rift between me and my family. You have to trust me. All right?

I do. Thank you, Brother. That really puts my mind at ease.

How's the tea? It's perfect, as always. Oh, don't you worry about a thing, Zakiya.

Nobody dares to go against my decision. I know, I remember it well. You always had a reputation for being a tyrant.

No one ever dared to say no to you. I'm still that very same tyrant, Zakiya. But not for long.

Alright then, just let me know once it's final. What? Are you doubting my word?

The matter is settled. Just start the wedding preparations. That's it!

Thank you, I'm so grateful. Okay, okay. Consider the preparations underway.

Goodbye. Did you hear all of that from your mother's friend? That woman is going to give you a very hard time, my dear.

Only time will tell. . .

who gives a hard time to whom. Why are you so worried? Well.

. . Saqib was saying.

. . he made an appointment for this evening.

. . with a psychologist.

That's a good thing, isn't it, Mom? I've been saying it all along. It's not like Rida has some incurable illness.

A few sessions with a good psychologist, and she'll be perfectly fine. Yes, dear, but Rida. .

. you know how she is. .

. Don't worry about Rida. I'll handle her myself.

The real hurdle was Aunt. We're lucky she came around. I think Sister Zakiya must have talked some sense into her.

That's the only reason she would have agreed. She wouldn't have budged otherwise. Mom, but who could've told her, though?

It's obvious, dear. The whole thing happened right in front of her. Sister Shehnaz had to explain everything to her, didn't she?

Here, eat something. You've gotten so weak in just two days. Look at the state you've let yourself get into.

Arham. Honey, breakfast is served. Come and eat.

Just a second, Mom. I think you ought to have a word with Saqib. You know very well he'd do anything I ask.

I honestly don't see the need for a discussion. But fine, since you're so insistent, I'll ask him. I know, Mom.

He'd never say no to you. But he has feelings for Rani, so his opinion should matter. All right.

When he comes to see me before heading to the office, I'll talk to him then. Happy now? Thank you, Mom.

Come on, let's have breakfast. I'm coming. Greetings, Aunt.

Greetings. Heading to the office? Yes, I was on my way out.

I just wanted to say goodbye. May God protect you. But please, sit for a moment.

There's something important I need to discuss with you. Yes? Well, I already know your answer, but Arham was adamant that I ask you, even if it's just for formality's sake.

Dear, Zakiya has chosen you for Rani. So, what's your answer? Should I give her our yes?

No, Aunt. No? But why, Saqib?

Aunt, you always say that one should think every decision through. I feel like this. .

. this all feels so rushed. With a little more time.

. . I'd be able to think it over and make a better decision.

Are you suggesting that you're challenging my experience and judgment? That's out of the question, Aunt. I would never dream of challenging your decision.

Then what's really on your mind? Tell me. Actually, I'm the eldest brother.

It just feels. . .

odd, getting married before my sisters. The whole idea doesn't sit right with me. That's hardly a reason.

Rida is set to become my daughter-in-law sooner or later. I will get her settled. Fizza is still young, she's in the middle of her studies.

The idea that you need to worry about your sisters while I'm around. . .

I just don't understand it. Aunt, can't we just wait a little? You're hiding something from me, Saqib.

Tell me the truth. What is going on? No.

It's nothing, Aunt. I'm not hiding anything. I've told you exactly what's on my mind.

You're just needlessly stalling, aren't you? And here I was, telling Zakiya with such conviction that you never refuse any request of mine. Aunt, I'd never dream of dishonoring you.

I'm just asking for a little time so I can think things through and make a sound decision. You can give me that much, can't you? Suit yourself.

Alright, I should go. Travel safely. Goodbye.

Fizza. I told you not to bring up Rani with Brother, didn't I? But you just had to do things your way.

If Brother's whole life wasn't on the line, I would have never said a word. Why don't you get it, Fizza? Aunt is downstairs grilling Brother right now.

Mark my words, you're next on the stand in her courtroom. And I'm confident I can not only plead my case, but win it. Such a bold claim?

Remember, dear, your opponent is our aunt. She has taken down the best of them without ever stepping inside a law school. And here you are, going up against your own brother.

Rida, it's not like Brother is in love with Rani. Aunt is just trying to force his hand for the sake of her friendship. And Brother is so naive that he'll be easily convinced.

I was simply trying to warn him. Tahira! Tahira!

Tahira, where are you? Sister Shehnaz, what's wrong? Is everything alright?

Alright? Nothing is alright. I can't believe what a fool I've been, and I'm only just realizing it now.

I've spent my entire life believing your children were so obedient, so utterly devoted to their aunt. Little did I know, they've all grown up and started making their own decisions. Please, just sit down.

. . come on, sit.

Now tell me. . .

what happened? What is it? For twenty years, to keep a promise I made to my late brother, I've always put your children before my own.

I gave them more importance, and I always had their back. But today, Saqib's reply really put me in my place. Oh, Sister Shehnaz, for God's sake.

What could be so bad? What did Saqib say? Please, just tell me.

Didn't I tell you about Saqib and Rani's match? Your precious son flat-out refused. Why?

Oh. . .

Saqib? How could he do that? He never goes against your word.

Why are you asking me? Go ask your precious daughter. I'm sure she knows why he refused.

She's always attached to her brother's hip. Aunt, Brother Saqib's decision is absolutely right. Oh, is that so?

Then do enlighten me, what was the reason behind this right decision? Aunt, Rani is not who she appears to be. All her love, affection, and kindness.

. . It's just an act.

Wow, Tahira, just wow. So your daughter's a mind reader now, is she? That's not what this is about.

She's selfish and completely self-absorbed. Frankly, I'm astonished you can't see through her. I have no idea why you’re spewing all this nonsense about Rani.

All I know is that she is an extremely sensitive, loving, and sensible girl. That’s why she came running over to check on your mother. I’m sure that was just part of some scheme of hers.

Besides, Brother Saqib doesn’t even like Rani, so I don’t know why you’re trying to force this marriage. Keep quiet. Did you see that, Tahira?

The way her tongue runs, sharp as a pair of scissors. Ah, so now it all makes sense. It really does.

Your daughter is behind this entire charade. Girls like her… they aren’t the kind to build homes, they’re the kind to wreck them. They can neither build a home for themselves nor can they stand to see anyone else live in peace.

That’s it. -I’ve had my fill of this disrespect. -Sister Shehnaz, please, just listen to me.

Please, hear me out. Just stop it, Tahira. Enough is enough.

Have some fear of God. Her entire life, I’ve forgiven her rudeness, thinking she was just a child. I’ve overlooked it all.

But she’s finally crossed the line. Aunt, I never meant to hurt you. I was just telling the truth… Look at me, miss.

My hands are folded in apology. Please, forgive me if I’ve been impertinent in any way. -Aunt… -I said, be quiet.

Don’t you dare say another word. Sister Shehnaz… you’re the elder of our family. We’re nothing without you.

You’re our only support. That’s not true at all, Aunt. We respect you deeply.

Oh, really? That’s news to me. I had no idea.

Let me tell you something, miss. In a home where there’s no regard for a father’s honor, don’t you dare speak to me of respect. I’ve seen exactly what kind of honor and pride you all possess.

Sister Shehnaz… What have you done? What in the world have you done? Do you even realize what you’ve done?

Mom, I’m sorry, Mom. I didn’t… Get away from me! I’m ruined because of you.

Go away. Tell her I don’t want her in my sight. What am I going to do?

Rani is a wonderful girl. So decent, humble, and down-to-earth. Aunt was absolutely right.

Nowadays, a girl like that is a blessing only for the truly fortunate. But Fizza… I don’t know why she has her doubts about Rani. And I can’t break Fizza’s heart either.

She trusts me so completely. For my own happiness, I can’t betray my sister’s trust. Is he avoiding me?

But why? Did something I said upset him? I should send him a message.

No… what if he still doesn’t call me back? But I saw it in his eyes. He likes me.

He has to confess. He will. He has no idea who he’s dealing with.

When I set my mind on something, I get it. And this man… he’s everything I’ve ever wanted. He’s the man I found after waiting for so long.

I won’t let him get away so easily. I’ll have to swallow my pride and my ego and make the first move. Just once.

Just this once. Once he’s mine, I will never let him belong to anyone else. Saqib… how lucky are you… that you’ve been chosen by Rani.