Mehwish Hayat has reignited a debate on ageism, gender roles and old-fashioned societal expectations in Pakistani media in a recent interview. She also called marriage a “gamble” and affirmed that she is not yet ready to roll the dice.
In a recent sitting with Fuchsia Magazine, the Jawani Phir Nahi Ani actress talked about wide-range of things.
Actress Mehwish Hayat revealed that she plans to direct in the future. She said that she closely observes the directors’ style on the sets of dramas and notes even the smallest details so that these experiences can be useful to her in the future.
Mehwish said that she has a special spiritual connection with Allah; she talks to him in solitude, which gives her peace and satisfaction.
In response to a question about age, gender discrimination and social expectations, Mehwish Hayat said that in Pakistan, men are allowed to age gracefully, and yet appear on screen with young actresses, However, the standards are entirely different for female actors, from whom society expects time to stand still.
Mehwish questions why men are allowed to age gracefully and continue to appear in lead roles alongside younger women, while female actors are expected to freeze in time. She criticizes the industry’s fixation on an actor’s age in Pakistani showbiz, arguing that their craft, work, and character are often sidelined.
She remarked that such age-focused scrutiny is not as prevalent in the West, whereas in Pakistan, age is often discussed more than a woman’s talent, hard work, or skills
She said that in Western societies, age is not made an issue to the extent that it is in ours, where an actress’s skill, hard work and talent are ignored based on her age. She believed that aging is a natural process that happens to every human being, so it is unfair to criticize and have unfair expectations on women.
She added that such thinking is also rare in India, where older actresses are appreciated for their self-confidence and attractive personality. In contrast, Pakistani society tends to judge them harshly.
Hayat described herself as a realist with a slightly romantic side. She said she wants to marry someone who brings peace to her life and whom she can fully trust.
Speaking frankly, she said that marriage is a gamble, and she will never rush into it. While marriage may be a top priority for some, she believes it should be the result of a thoughtful decision, made with a partner who truly understands and supports her.
