A debate has taken over Pakistan’s entertainment circles after veteran actor Saba Faisal’s recent remarks about marital harmony and bridal autonomy drew widespread criticism, and prompted a pointed response from Pakistani actress Javeria Saud.
The discussion began when Saba, appearing on a morning show, advised newly married women to adopt silence in their in-laws’ homes.
“Sasural mein goonga, behra ban kr rehne se zindagi bohat achi guzray gi.”
Her comments quickly circulated online, triggering concern over the message being promoted on national television.
Javeria Saud addressed the remark directly through an Instagram story, sharing Faisal’s quote and adding her own counterpoint.
“Sirf sasural hi nahi balke her jaga per aankh kaan zaban sab khulay chor den to Zindagi sakoon se guzaregi”
Her response reframed the conversation, suggesting that peace comes from awareness and open communication, not silence, regardless of setting.
The controversy deepened as Faisal elaborated on her views regarding bridal independence.
Reflecting on past traditions, she said, “In the past, newly married women wore outfits selected by their in-laws and I also followed the same tradition.”
She went on to add, “One of the biggest mistakes some mothers of grooms make today is giving brides complete freedom to design and select their wedding wardrobes from the very beginning.”
According to Saba, “Handing over all such decisions to the bride at the start is not a good approach.”
While acknowledging comfort as important, she cautioned that “issues arise when a bride continues to only wear the outfits she selected by herself,” suggesting it could disrupt household balance.
Several actors responded publicly.
Fiza Ali shared in an Instagram story that a peaceful home is one where a daughter-in-law feels respected, stating, “A woman wanting to wear clothes according to her own preference should not be seen as disrespectful but as natural desire,” and adding that removing decision-making power is control, not love.
She also highlighted how women are encouraged to be expressive as daughters but expected to suppress themselves as daughters-in-law.
Actor Hira Khan added bluntly, “Why she is allowed to speak on national television, I will never know. I feel sorry for her bahu.”