Veteran Pakistani actress and filmmaker Sangeeta has finally explained why actress Naeema Butt was dropped from her upcoming film Mukho, claiming the decision stemmed from what she described as "unprofessional behavior" during the early stages of production.
Speaking in a recent interview, the veteran director revealed that Naeema Butt had initially been finalized for an important role in Mukho and had even received an advance payment. However, Sangeeta said she decided to remove the actress after Naeema allegedly began suggesting changes to the film's casting, including recommendations for the lead actor.
Recalling the incident, Sangeeta said: "She was initially cast, but I am not the kind of director who tolerates tantrums. She started suggesting who should be cast as the hero and who else should be included. I told her, 'Please excuse me and return my advance payment.' She returned the advance."
The veteran filmmaker further emphasized that, after spending nearly five decades in Pakistan's entertainment industry, she could not accept creative interference from a newcomer.
"She is still new to the industry, whereas I have spent 50 years here. It is not possible for someone new to advise me on casting. She should continue doing dramas. It was a great opportunity and the role was excellent, but I removed her because of her attitude," Sangeeta added.
Her remarks quickly went viral across social media, triggering divided reactions among netizens. While some supported Sangeeta's decision and praised her experience, others defended Naeema Butt, arguing that offering creative suggestions should not automatically be viewed as "tantrums."
One user wrote, "You're used to working with people like Meera. Today's actresses are educated."
Another commented, "Why is giving feedback and suggestions being termed as 'nakhra'?"
A third user remarked, "Sounds like you have an ego problem."
Sangeeta, whose real name is Parveen Rizvi, is regarded as one of Pakistan's most celebrated actresses and directors. With a career spanning more than five decades and over 120 films to her credit, she remains a prominent figure in the country's film industry. Her upcoming directorial venture, Mukho, is among her most anticipated projects.