By Anil Merani: Fans of Dreamiyata Drama’s YouTube series Dil Ko Rafu Karr Lei, a 25-episode romantic drama that premiered on December 25, 2024, are not just upset but deeply disappointed with the character arc of Nikki, portrayed by Ayesha Khan. The show features Karan V Grover as Ishaan and Ayesha Khan as Nikki, showcasing their complex romance amid a rushed marriage and a contentious love triangle. Nikki, who was initially a vibrant and outspoken artist, has faced backlash for her involvement in an extramarital affair with Akshay (Chirag Khatri). Fans have criticized this development as poorly justified and damaging to her character’s likability.
The outrage is particularly evident in certain online platforms where fans have labeled Nikki a “cheater” and expressed disdain for her immature decisions. Many criticize her for not addressing her marital issues with Ishaan, instead opting to be with Akshay, whom some mockingly refer to as “Maggie Noodles.” They argue that Akshay’s weak presence as a romantic rival further undermines Nikki’s character arc. One user expressed frustration, stating, “Nikki was not mature enough to have a conversation and sort out the issue. Instead, she chose to be with that Maggie Noodles who was exploiting her.” The affair, along with slow pacing and clichéd plot devices like the “jhumka” incident, has led to calls for Nikki to face “karma” or even exit the show.
Gendered Backlash and Writing Woes Fuel Discontent
Beyond the issue of infidelity, fans are also frustrated with the show’s writing, feeling it squanders Nikki’s potential as a “patakha” character. Her playful personality has faded after her marriage, and viewers criticize the storyline as “trash” and “confusing,” with uneven pacing exacerbating the problem. This dissatisfaction with the writing reflects broader concerns about overall storytelling in the series. Some commentators note a double standard, indicating that male characters’ affairs in Indian TV shows often face less scrutiny, while Nikki’s actions dominate the backlash. One Reddit user remarked, “I don’t understand why there’s so much outrage about a woman cheating when there are at least 20 shows where men have extramarital affairs.”
Despite Ayesha Khan’s commendable performance, the affair arc lacks emotional depth, making Nikki’s choices seem impulsive rather than compelling. While the show’s finite format and Pakistani drama-inspired aesthetic receive some praise, Nikki’s character journey has alienated viewers, threatening the series’ goodwill. Nevertheless, fans continue to discuss the show online and Dreamiyata’s YouTube channel, holding onto hope for a course correction. For now, Nikki’s arc remains a sore point, reflecting broader issues with the execution of the show.