In a recent podcast interview hosted by Ahmed Ali Butt, Pakistani actress and model Mahenur Haider opened up about her past experience with wearing a face covering, known as the ‘Burqa’.
Famous for her role as ‘Apana’ in the popular drama series ‘Khaie’, Ms. Haider disclosed that she adopted the burqa during her ninth-grade year in 2009, influenced by her family’s devout practices and regular prayers. Initially, she viewed it as a positive step towards religious commitment, particularly to impress her father.
However, her father’s unexpected reaction, characterized by amusement rather than approval, prompted her to reconsider her decision and its motivations deeply. Reflecting on his advice to prioritize internal spiritual growth over external displays, she now values his perspective.
During the interview, Ms. Haider candidly discussed the challenges she faced after adopting the burqa. While some friends ridiculed her choice, her mother, though not openly critical, expressed discomfort with the changes it brought to their family’s public image.
Over time, Mahenur Haider has evolved in her approach to religious attire, occasionally opting to wear the burqa as a personal choice, feeling liberated from rigid expectations surrounding its observance.