If you support women’s voices, believe they should be treated equally, and stand with them in their time of need, we’ve got the perfect film for you. Streaming on ZEE5 from March 7, 2025, Riwaj is a powerful social drama that follows a woman fighting against oppression. Directed by Manoj Sati, Riwaj movie highlights the themes of justice, resilience, and change as Zainab fights for her rights. With a gripping narrative and a stellar cast, it is one of the must-watch drama movies on ZEE5. In this blog, let’s meet the compelling characters of Riwaj and understand more about their roles in this groundbreaking story on ZEE5.
1. Myraa Sareen as Zainab Shaikh
Leading the story in Riwaj is Zainab Shaikh, played by Myraa Sareen. Zainab is a kind, loving young woman. She is a dutiful daughter who gets married due to familial pressure and then suffers oppression. She endures all the taunts, household burdens, and humiliation silently until one day, when she just cannot. Then her husband leaves her with a mere Triple Talaq letter, which becomes the last straw. Zainab decides to fight for her rights and stands tall against all societal and political pressure as she tries to get Triple Talaq abolished. Fans of Myraa Sareen will surely love her in this film.
2. Mithun Chakraborty as Ramzan Qadir
If Zainab is leading the storyline, her biggest pillar of strength in this journey is Ramzan Qadir, the Supreme Court lawyer, played brilliantly by Mithun Chakraborty. Ramzan, who once left practice due to a tragedy, enters the courtroom once again to help Zainab in her battle against injustice with his legal expertise. If you’re a fan of Mithun Chakraborty movies, you should definitely add Riwaj to your weekend watchlist.
3. Aftab Shivdasanias Hanif Qureshi
Now, let’s talk about Zainab’s manipulative and controlling husband, Hanif Qureshi. Played exceptionally by Aftab Shivdasani, Hanif embodies everything that’s wrong with the society’s patriarchal mindset. Initially, he’s extremely sweet to Zainab, but after Nikah, he stands with his family and fuels her oppression. Later, when she retaliates, he attempts to coerce Zainab into Halaala, fearing legal trouble. However, luckily, Zainab exposes his deception publicly and vows to end this unjust practice of Triple Talaq. His performance as Hanif would make you want to watch more Aftab Shivdasani movies like this one.
4. Anita Raj as Ammi(Hanif’s Mother)
When people said, “Women are their own worst enemies”, women like Hanif’s mother is who they meant. Instead of supporting or uplifting her daughter-in-law, Ammi, who is a staunch believer in rigid traditions, enforces cruel norms on Zainab. She even forced an unbelievable amount of household labor on her and orchestrated her secret abortions. With a stellar portrayal by Anita Raj, Hanif’s Ammi symbolizes the older generation that upholds oppressive customs without questioning their impact. If you weren’t already a fan of Anita Raj movies, you’ll become one after watching this.
5. Zakir Hussain as Hidayat Khan
Next on the list is Hidayat Khan, a Supreme Court lawyer who opposes Zainab and Ramzan in their legal battle. Played brilliantly by Zakir Hussain, this character represents the community’s resistance against change. He speaks in support of the Triple Talaq law, which showcases how the legal system and communities are biased regarding religious laws. If you enjoyed watching Zakir Hussain movies and web series like Murshid, you’ll definitely appreciate his performance in this one.
6. Advik Mahajan as Arbaaz Khan
The next interesting character in this film is Arbaaz Khan, played by Teri Meri Ikk Jindri fame Advik Mahajan. While Hanif was an aggressive, extremely patriarchal man, Arbaaz was the complete opposite. He was a sweet and loving guy who had genuine feelings for Zainab. Despite being rejected by her, Arbaaz never wishes ill upon her.
7. Jaya Prada as Zubaida Khan
Next in line is Zubaida Khan, played beautifully by the veteran Indian actress Jaya Prada. Zaubaida supports Zainab in her journey and becomes another pillar of strength for her. Jaya’s powerful performance is something you need to watch out for when you watch Riwaj movie online.
8. Naresh Puri as Supreme Court Judge
Another important character in this story is the Supreme Court Judge who rules over this historic case. Naresh Puri essays this role with utmost sensitivity as he tries to understand a case that could change the course of women’s rights in the country. His ruling marks a turning point in the battle against Triple Talaq in India.
9. Kum Kum Das as Sabiya Shaikh
An underrated character in this storyline is Zainab’s loving and supporting Mother, Sabiya Shaikh, played by Kum Kum Das. She only wants the best for her daughter but is bound by societal constraints. Her silent suffering while trying to support Zainab’s fight represents the state of most women in this country.
10. Aman Gupta as Samad Shaikh
Last but not the least is Samad Shaikh, played by Aman Gupta. Samad is Zainab’s brother and another prominent character in the storyline who adds more layers to the narrative.
With a gripping storyline and stellar performances, Riwaj is sure to be a landmark film on ZEE5. It sheds light on the need for progressive reforms in personal laws. It showcases how religious laws must be progressive, not oppressive. Watch Riwaj movie online on ZEE5 and witness this powerful social drama unfold!
