Pakistani actress and model Mahenur Haider recently revealed in an interview on Ahmed Ali Butt’s podcast that she used to wear a ‘Burqa’ (face covering).
Known for her role as ‘Apana’ in the popular drama serial ‘Khaie,’ Ms. Haider revealed that her family is devout and practices regular prayer. She began wearing the burqa in 2009 during ninth grade, initially believing it would be seen as a positive step towards religious dedication by her father.
However, she was surprised by her father’s amused rather than approving reaction, questioning the sudden adoption as hypocrisy. This made her rethink her motivations deeply. Reflecting on her father’s advice prioritizing internal spiritual growth over external displays, she now appreciates his perspective.
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Ms. Haider discussed the challenges she faced after adopting the burqa. While her friends ridiculed her decision, her mother, though not openly hostile, expressed discomfort about the change it brought to their family’s public appearance.
Over time, Mahenur Haider has revisited her approach to religious attire, now occasionally wearing the burqa as a personal choice, feeling liberated from strict rules regarding its observance.