Love, politics and regrets: Hajra Khan spills secrets in new Imran Khan-centric book

By Shahzad Paracha

ISLAMABAD: Pakistani television and film actress Hajra Khan Panezai made some revelations during the launch event of her glamorous book, “WHERE THE OPIUM GROWS: Surviving Pakistan as a Woman, an Actress And Knowing Imran.”

Without divulging extensive details from the memoir, Hajra asserted that politicians are, in fact, significant actors on a grand stage.

Reflecting on the past decade, Hajra candidly shared her journey of personal accountability.

Expressing regret over her association with PTI Chairman Imran Khan, she recalled being impressed by him in 2014 when he seemed to resonate with the masses as a messiah.

However, she asserted that reality painted a different picture, emphasizing that she had written about these experiences nine years ago.

Hajra disclosed that a UK-based publisher refrained from publishing her book in 2014 due to external pressures. She emphasized that, subsequently, her social media accounts were hacked and she faced indirect threats, including calls and messages undermining her life.

In response to trolls who criticized her attire and questioned her Muslim identity, Hajra boldly asserted her right to choose her clothing and lifestyle.

Addressing objections to her involvement in politics, she stressed the importance of holding public office holders accountable.

Recalling her last meeting with Imran Khan in 2013, Hajra asserted that she did not meet him thereafter and chose to move to the United Kingdom in 2014. She spoke about her familial relationship with late Naeem-ul Haq and expressed skepticism about Imran Khan changing since 2014.

Hajra dismissed character assassination claims, emphasizing her intention to discuss politics and claims objectively. She cited instances of Imran Khan’s promises, such as commuting to the office on a bicycle and giving millions to households, as mere dreams.

Without naming individuals who urged her to quit showbiz professionally, Hajra defended her career choice and stressed the need for public office holders to be accountable. The purpose of her book, she explained, is to empower women who have faced harassment to speak out about their experiences.

Hajra clarified that the content does not revolve around her love story. She candidly acknowledged, “I was an idiot; however, I took accountability for my actions.”

Without naming anyone, Hajra highlighted the profound impact of drug addiction on household dynamics, stating that lives become tumultuous when a drug addict is part of the family. She urged parents to carefully consider such factors before marrying their daughters to individuals with a history of drug addiction.

Hajra Khan pens unfiltered tales of Imran Khan’s secrets

Expressing remorse, Hajra openly apologized to her friends who supported Imran Khan at her behest. She admitted that her decision to join PTI was a regrettable choice influenced by her father. Reflecting on the sociopolitical landscape of 2014, Hajra remarked that society was not as polarized, emphasizing the existence of freedom of expression. She noted that everyone could openly discuss various issues, creating an atmosphere where diverse perspectives were welcomed and debated.

Refuting rumours of a pregnancy during an alleged relationship with Imran Khan, Hajra clarified that the woman in question now lives in a foreign country, and refrained from commenting further on the matter. She concluded by expressing readiness for accountability when she holds public office in the future.