Maira Khan: 'My acting career will end once I begin wearing hijab'

When it comes to their fashion choices, Pakistani celebrities face intense public scrutiny, and Maira Khan is no exception. She has experienced social media backlash for some of her bolder outfit choices.

Maira Khan spoke out on a podcast about how Pakistanis exhibit double standards when they praise and admire Bollywood actresses wearing revealing clothing but Pakistani actresses face harsher criticism and unfair judgment for similar choices.

“Pakistanis will like Katrina Kaif’s picture in shorts but will not like mine in a shalwar kameez,” she said.

The 'Cheekh' actor noted that while we respect Arab countries with a strong hijab tradition, Pakistani society has a diverse dress code influenced by various cultures, adapting what people wear to the occasion and individual preferences.

She highlighted how clothing choices are driven by personal preferences and motivations, which others may not always understand. She further maintained that she will find it difficult to continue as an actress while adhering strictly to hijab in the entertainment industry where certain roles or expectations might not be compatible with wearing hijab.

“We can’t even cover our heads in dramas. If I started wearing one today, I might have to take it off for certain roles, which would be difficult,” the 'Riwaaj' acto maintained.

She emphasised that many people have different personal reasons for choosing not to wear hijab, adding that some actresses are managing their households and finances independently, “We also have faith in God, if we are not covering our head, then it must have a reason. Why would a woman want to go out and work while having a stable family?”

Maira also openly shared her experiences with cosmetic surgery, revealing that she'd undergone multiple procedures, including liposuction at just 19 and five nose surgeries, one of which resulted in an unsatisfactory outcome. Reflecting on her journey, she emphasised the pressure she felt to conform to certain beauty standards and the challenges she faced due to early decisions.

She urged people to avoid nose jobs due to the immense pain and emotional strain they can involve.