Maha Hasan recalls childhood harassment scars
Maha Hasan felt heavy as she recalled the deep scars childhood harassment left on her and shed light on the importance of healing, support, and faith in overcoming the trauma.
Speaking on a programme, the 29-year-old actress shared a harrowing experience of harassment she went through at a very young age, which shattered her value system and left a lasting impact on her beliefs and mental well-being.
Without naming anyone, she disclosed that as a child, she was spoken to and touched inappropriately. Maha explained the psychological toll it took on her and how, at that time, she didn’t fully grasp the gravity of the abuse.
“Even if you are 18, you are not mature enough to understand that these things are excessive and wrong,” she said. Maha added that she used to rationalise the harasser’s actions, convincing herself that he might just need therapy. Looking back, she expressed regret over not reporting the abuse.
“I still feel guilty that other girls might have become his victims,” she said, adding that the experience left her spiritually shaken and in a state of internal conflict. “I started questioning religion and my value system.”
However, after seeking therapy and embarking on a personal journey of healing, Maha said she has slowly reconnected with her faith. “I find peace in Namaz now. My faith has returned with full force, and I am finally at peace with where I stand in life.”
In reply to a question, she also acknowledged the widespread harassment and exploitation within the entertainment industry, stressing the urgent need for stronger safeguards and increased vigilance to hold perpetrators accountable.
Maha made her television debut in 2017 with a supporting role in Khuda Mera Bhi Hai. Her breakthrough came in 2020 with Ishqiya and Nand. She appeared in hits like Safar Tamam Howa, Yunhi, Chand Tara, Jurm, and Tumhare Husn Ke Naam. Web series, including Superheroes, Churails, and Farar, also speak about her success story.