By Sumavaya Iqbal 
Veteran Pakistani actress Hina Khawaja Bayat has voiced her growing concern over how mobile phone usage is silently disrupting human relationships and societal norms.
In a recent appearance on the television show Mazaq Raat, Bayat reflected on the emotional toll of invasive public behavior toward celebrities. “People forget that actors are also human beings,” she said, noting that while she welcomes constructive feedback, personal criticism crosses a line.
Bayat drew attention to how digital technology has isolated individuals from one another. “It’s sad to see four people sitting at the same table, each engrossed in their own phones. There’s no real conversation anymore,” she observed.
While acknowledging the convenience of smartphones, she warned that excessive usage can lead to emotional detachment and may even manifest as a type of addiction or illness. The acclaimed actress described how once-cherished customs like welcoming guests warmly have now faded.
Recalling her upbringing, she shared, “Our doors were always open. Guests were treated with joy and care.” But today, the same visitors are often perceived as disturbances to routines or study schedules.
Bayat also spoke about her unplanned entry into acting. During her college years, she was offered commercials but declined due to her father’s objections. It wasn’t until Sultana Siddiqui encouraged her to take up acting that her successful career in television began.