From controversy to comeback? Broadcaster Ishrat Fatima’s possible return to the mic

WEB DESK: Minister for information and broadcasting Attaullah Tarar on Thursday visited veteran broadcaster Ishrat Fatima at her Islamabad residence, where he signalled the possibility of her return to Pakistan Television (PTV).

During the meeting, the minister lauded Ishrat Fatima’s decades-long contribution to broadcasting, describing her voice and presence as deeply woven into Pakistan’s media history. He said her career, spanning over 40 years, had helped define standards of professionalism for generations of broadcasters.

Tarar said he had invited Ishrat Fatima to rejoin PTV, noting that her association with the state-run broadcaster could play a vital mentoring role, particularly for young anchors and producers entering the field. He added that her experience represents a living archive of the evolution of Pakistani broadcasting.

Calling her a household name admired across the country, the minister remarked that reconnecting such senior figures with national institutions was essential for preserving institutional memory and strengthening public media.

Ishrat Fatima thanked the minister for the visit and the gesture of recognition, saying it was encouraging to see talent and long service being acknowledged and respected at the state level. She also appreciated the emphasis on learning and continuity within the media industry.

Grievances with Radio Pakistan

Earlier, Fatima had revealed the circumstances that led her to end her 45-year association with Radio Pakistan, describing the decision as one of the most painful of her life. A trusted and familiar voice for generations, Ishrat Fatima rose to prominence through Pakistan Television’s news bulletins and has long been regarded as a symbol of credibility and gravitas in Pakistani broadcasting.

Earlier this week, she shared a video of her final Radio Pakistan news bulletin on X, thanking the institution and its listeners for their enduring support. In a subsequent 13-minute message, she spoke candidly about the emotional strain behind her departure, saying she faced prolonged mental stress and sought divine guidance before taking the step.

Ishrat Fatima said her broadcasting journey began in the early 1980s and described news reading as a lifelong passion rather than merely a profession. She stressed that her decision was not due to declining health, voice, pronunciation or commitment, noting that she remained punctual and professionally capable.

Despite being repeatedly labelled a senior and a legend, she said she was denied meaningful opportunities and made to feel increasingly unwanted, which she described as deeply hurtful. After waiting in hope for improvement, she chose to leave. However, she assured fans she would stay connected through social media. Ishrat Fatima is a recipient of the Pride of Performance and Sitara-e-Imtiaz and remains one of Pakistan’s most respected broadcasters.