We recently had the chance to sit down with the rising star, Farah El Zahed, to discuss her role in the much-anticipated series Roj Eswd. Known for her captivating performances and ability to portray complex emotions, Farah has quickly carved out a place for herself in Egyptian drama. After kickstarting her acting career with roles in movies like El Batta El Safra and Esaba Azzima, where she demonstrated her versatility, Roj Eswd marks another milestone in her career.
In this series, she takes on the challenging role of Habiba, a young woman facing domestic abuse and attempting to overcome the oppressive cycle of generational trauma that binds her family.
Speaking about her character, Farah revealed her deep connection to Habiba’s struggles. “Habiba’s story resonates deeply with me,” she shared. “She represents countless women who feel trapped, both by their circumstances and by family expectations. Playing her is a responsibility because it’s more than a role—it’s a reality for so many.”
Roj Eswd draws its plot from real-life cases that have unfolded within Egypt’s family courts, shedding light on the experiences of women who are often overlooked in mainstream narratives.
Habiba’s journey in Roj Eswd reflects the harsh realities of women who, like her, are often marginalized within society and the legal system. Habiba comes from Alexandria, representing a lower-income community where generational abuse and silence are common.
She confronts these deeply rooted issues, illustrating the difficult and courageous journey of standing against the norm and fighting for a life free from abuse. “Through Habiba, we aim to raise awareness about domestic abuse and inspire others to seek help and change their circumstances,” Farah added.
Set to air soon, Roj Eswd is not just a series; it’s a powerful statement on the real-life experiences of women in Egypt. It includes a stellar cast of female stars alongside Farah, such as Rania Youssef, Liqaa El Khamisy, Dalia Mostafa, and Mai Selim, each embodying characters who reveal the multifaceted challenges women face in family courts. The series is directed by the renowned Mohamed Abdel Rahman Hamaki, whose previous work on Ejaza Maftouha and Ashbah Europa showcased his talent for exploring deep, socially relevant themes. Scripted by Ayman Salim, writer of Dayman Amer and Hawadit El Champs-Élysées, Roj Eswd promises to be a gripping and impactful addition to Egyptian television.
With 30 interconnected episodes, the show is structured to allow each character’s story to unfold organically, bringing depth to the narratives of pain, resilience, and hope. Farah expressed her excitement and pride in being part of such an important project: “I hope that Roj Eswd will spark conversations around these issues and encourage women to find strength in themselves. It’s a role that I’ve embraced with all my heart.”
As she continues to rise in the industry, Farah El Zahed’s involvement in Roj Eswd demonstrates her commitment to roles that bring critical social issues to the forefront. The series shines a spotlight on the experiences of women in Egypt, many of whom are navigating difficult family dynamics and the legal system with little support.
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