Ushna Shah speaks out against stigmatising divorce in Pakistani dramas

ISLAMABAD: Renowned actress Ushna Shah has voiced her concerns about the portrayal of divorced women in drama scripts, emphasising the need to challenge harmful stereotypes and societal taboos.

Habs actor took to her X to shed light on her upbringing by a divorced mother who worked tirelessly at three jobs to provide for her, expressing her desire to engage in projects that defy toxic narratives.

Many scripts I work on perpetuate shame around divorce. While I can't reshape the conventions of scriptwriting or opt for unemployment, I stand by a vision. As the child of a divorcee who hustled with three jobs to raise us, the stigma on divorced characters feels deeply…

— Ushna Shah (@ushnashah) September 22, 2023

Ushna Shah is known for her fearless and genuinely authentic demeanor. She frequently addresses various topics, such as women’s empowerment and animal rights.

Nevertheless, even before Ushna Shah, numerous other actors criticised Pakistani entertainment for perpetuating stereotypes and not introducing fresh ideas.

A few months ago, former star Mahnoor Baloch mentioned that she intentionally avoids taking on scripts because they lack substance. Additionally, supermodel and actress Iman Aly has consistently expressed her dissatisfaction with the quality of scripts she receives. She has stated that she opts not to participate in dramas due to creative disagreements.

Supportive reactions 

Her statement has received positive responses from users, with some highlighting the significance of challenging and breaking stereotypes. Let us see the reactions below.

It takes a strong, visionary artist to challenge stereotypes and push boundaries. Your personal connection to the stigma of divorce adds a unique depth to your storytelling. I have no doubt that, with your determination and passion, you'll find a way to convince producers to…

— Stella John (@i_StellaJohn) September 22, 2023

We are eager to see such scrips too. Tired of same old scripts of shaming divorce. We want to see progressive content.

— Sarah 🇵🇰🇺🇸🇬🇧 (@sara_05me) September 22, 2023

True, us women idealise toxic marriages over independence.

— . (@hellowpaanda) September 22, 2023

There’s absolutely no shame in divorce or any stigma attached to it in Islam. Our prophet SAW himself married a divorced woman. If only we understood our religion.

— Sana Mohsin (@sanashau) September 22, 2023