By Hafiz Rahat Usama 
A Veteran Actress Back in the Spotlight
Saima Qureshi, a name that has been associated with Pakistani television for decades, is once again in the public eye after a series of remarks that have gone viral on social media. Known for her versatile acting skills and resilience as a single mother who raised three sons on her own, Qureshi has never shied away from addressing sensitive personal and social topics. Her candid discussions on divorce, single parenthood, and the evolving dynamics of family life have often attracted both praise and criticism.
The Podcast That Revived Controversy
The latest wave of discussion began with Saima Qureshi’s appearance on the FHM podcast, where she revisited her earlier controversial comments while offering deeper reflections on current social challenges. She highlighted her own journey of navigating divorce, pointing out how difficult it was to rebuild her life while caring for her children. Drawing from this personal experience, she commented on the sharp rise in divorce rates in recent years, suggesting that traditional views need to be reevaluated if younger generations are to succeed in marriage.
Qureshi expressed that one of the pressing problems lies in the attitudes carried over from the older generation. She believes that unless parents and elders adjust their perspectives, young couples will continue to struggle. Her statement touched a nerve, particularly when she elaborated on the role of mothers in the lives of married daughters.
A Controversial Stance on Family Roles
In her latest remarks, Saima Qureshi emphasized that once a girl is married, her mother should step back and allow her to adjust to her new environment. She stressed that overpampering or providing constant backup can do more harm than good, creating unnecessary friction between the daughter and her in-laws. While she acknowledged that abuse or violence must never be tolerated, she argued that smaller disagreements and household conflicts should be resolved by the couple themselves rather than escalated with parental involvement.
This point of view has generated heated debate. Some see her advice as practical and rooted in experience, suggesting that independence and patience are crucial for sustaining marriages. Others, however, view her comments as dismissive of the real struggles many women face in their marital homes, particularly when dealing with controlling in-laws or unsupportive spouses.
Opinions on Financial Independence and Second Marriages
Adding to the controversy, Qureshi has previously spoken about women’s financial independence and men’s right to remarry, views that continue to resurface in online discussions. Critics argue that such statements undermine women’s struggles and normalize patriarchal structures, while supporters commend her for speaking openly about cultural realities.
Her comments reflect the tension between tradition and modernity in Pakistani society, where shifting expectations in marriage often clash with long-held values. Qureshi’s perspective, shaped by personal trials and professional experience, reflects a generational divide that resonates with audiences across the country.
A Voice That Continues to Stir Dialogue
While Saima Qureshi’s views may not align with everyone, there is no denying that her words have sparked necessary conversations. By questioning social norms and offering her unfiltered opinions, she continues to influence debates around marriage, divorce, and gender roles in Pakistan’s evolving cultural landscape.