This International Women’s Day, as we commemorate the progress in our understanding and appreciation of the feminine gender—recognizing their strength, resilience, contributions, and the significance of providing a nurturing environment for their growth—we engaged in conversations with talented individuals from Pakistan who have made a mark in the Indian entertainment industry through their television work.
These Pakistani artists, who have become household names through their appearances in Indian television serials, shared insights on their sources of strength and their vision for a more balanced and thriving world for all.
Insights from Iqra Aziz on Women’s Day
In an exclusive interview with WION, Pakistani artists known for their roles in various Zindagi shows and films reflected on the influential figures who have inspired them on their journey to fame and success. Speaking about her portrayal of strong female characters on screen, Iqra Aziz expressed, “While embodying resilient female leads has been immensely gratifying, the true pillars of strength in my life are the women who empower me behind the scenes. My mother, in particular, stands as my unwavering support, guiding me through every challenge with unconditional love. Her resilience in the face of adversity and her ability to break barriers have instilled courage in me. Her quiet yet profound wisdom continues to motivate me daily.”
Iqra further shared, “Another guiding light in my life is my elder sister, who uplifts and encourages me, offering guidance and sharing her own experiences. Regardless of my accomplishments, I find solace in their grounding presence. It is the collective support of these exceptional women that emboldens me to embrace new opportunities and evolve. Their unwavering belief in me fuels my confidence to conquer any obstacle. While portraying bold characters is fulfilling, it is the real-life heroines who propel me forward.”
Perspective from Saba Qamar on Women’s Day
Renowned for her role in Hindi Medium, Saba Qamar, a prolific Pakistani actress, emphasized the significance of authentic female relationships in today’s narratives. She remarked, “The portrayal of deep connections among women in contemporary shows and movies is truly heartening. For too long, female characters were depicted as rivals competing for male attention. However, some of my most profound bonds are with other women—be it my mother, sisters, or friends who are akin to family.”
She added, “When women unite with empathy and encouragement, rather than envy, the empowerment derived from such solidarity is immeasurable.”
Thoughts from Shailja Kejriwal on Women’s Day
Shailja Kejriwal, the Chief Creative Officer of Special Projects at Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited, shared her perspective on Women’s Day, stating, “The solidarity among women forms a resilient network of empowerment, breaking barriers and catalyzing change. Through our #TumseMain campaign, Zindagi celebrates this bond, amplifying women’s voices and honoring their resilience not just on International Women’s Day but every day.”
The realm of cinema serves as a mirror to our society. With the younger generation becoming more attuned to gender dynamics in both societal and domestic spheres, the landscape has evolved positively for actresses of this era. They not only wield negotiating power but also assert their perspectives—a privilege not historically afforded to women in this industry or elsewhere.