'People assumed I would never marry': Sadia Imam dispels stereotypes about actors

Former TV actor and host Sadia Imam confronted the prevailing myths surrounding showbiz stars and expressed empathy for her parents who, she said, endured daily criticism before her marriage when she entered the showbiz industry.

Speaking on a morning show, the ‘Ijazat’ actor revealed that she was raised in a religious family. Her own relatives used to criticise her parents due to her choice of pursuing a career in showbiz, she said.

Upon entering the showbiz industry, Sadia faced judgments from her relatives, recalling, "The first taunt I heard from my own relatives was that I would never get married."

She and her parents endured ridiculing taunts, with people asserting, "I will never get married because I would become addicted to money." 

The actor further revealed that there were comments suggesting that whoever she marries would likely be a father of two children.

Seeing her parents depressed due to society’s judgements, Sadia remained determined to excel in her career.

“I used to see them going through this difficult phase every day, however, their taunts made me resilient and I proved everyone wrong,” she said. 

She explained, "I told my parents that I would marry whomever they wished, but first, I wanted to complete my work in the showbiz industry."

Underlining the significance of financial independence for women, Sadia Imam stated, "I can't eat cabbage, tolerate criticism, and leave work. So, I prioritised building my career first and later sought my parents' approval for marriage."

In 2012, Sadia Imam exchanged vows with Adnan Haider, a Pakistani native residing in Germany.

Two years into their marriage, the actress welcomed her first child. Upon returning to Pakistan in 2015, she embarked on hosting a morning show on Samaa TV, but gradually disappeared from regular TV appearances.

Despite her reduced on-screen presence after marriage, Sadia occasionally appears as a guest on various programs and shows.

Reflecting on her harmonious marriage, she expressed gratitude, stating, "Mashallah, I am blessed with a young and unmarried husband, and Allah has bestowed us with children."

Recalling the initial skepticism surrounding Adnan's proposal, Sadia shared, "When Adnan's proposal came, people asked me to check whether he already had two or three wives."

She was steadfast in her commitment, refusing to back down, and her determination ultimately led her to overcome the challenges posed by societal judgments and stereotypes.