A bang on post.ππΌ
I am honestly quite surprised at being presented with a palette of raw, real and intricate characters and relationships. They are neither white nor black nor even grey- they are just as human beings are- COMPLEX.
But while it makes me happy that Indian Tv has come this far to explore such dynamics, I have a nagging fear that the writers may not be equipped to handle the nuances of such characters.
In the very first week, I moved from being empathetic towards Neha to being quite irritated by her antics. For in the initial episodes, she was grieving child who had some fair reasons for her behaviour. By the end of the week, she turned into a self-entitled, victim playing brat for me. I could understand her feeling neglected by the mother, bitter about lack of attention and opportunities. But I cannot fathom how she assumes that Dev had a more 'advantageous' position. The brother who is the object of her envy at the moment is someone who at the age of 9 was forced by circumstance to become the 'man of the house'. He had to bear the burden of his own crushed dreams and the responsibility of ensuring a secure future for his mother and sisters at a time when basic survival must have been a challenge. To constantly live with the pressure of achieving things NOT for your family's name and glory but for their very existence is not a cakewalk.
And if I hypothetically place Neha in Dev's 'coveted' place I can still see her whining about how parasitic the family was...how she was given all the love... sent to the best school just so her siblings and mother can have a better future...etc. Something which Dev NEVER does. He instead understands Neha's grievances because he can relate to that pain he never allowed himself to manifest. The only difference is Neha wants acknowledgement for her sacrifices, Dev has silently made it a part of his own being.
I liked you point of how Dev and Ishwari became a team fighting against cruel circumstances, and that is why they have a sense of gratitude for one another. And if Neha is not a part of this team, the fault lies with ALL three people involved, not just Ishwari or Dev.
Same with her marriage. Being financially independent is important, and I agree that marriage is not a solution for Neha's troubles. But I cannot blame only Ishwari or Dev here because Neha appears to be ecstatic about the marriage! I am sure if she had mentioned this to her brother that she wants to get financially independent, Dev would have done everything to fulfil this wish of hers, now that they have all the resources. But from all the gushing and blushing I see, Neha also perceives her happiness in marriage. Her brother is only obliging, albeit with not so sensible means. He perhaps feels that Sameer would fill the emotional vacuum in her life with some unconditional love which Neha's own family was unable to express. No doubt, IT IS A HUGE MESS!
Though must say, I am quite enjoying the rich variety of situations and emotions on showcase in each episode. Waiting to see what Sonakshi brings on board here!