Sanam Saeed breaks silence on emotional abuse and bias against divorce
Pakistani actress Sanam Saeed Mirza sharing behind-the-scenes photos from her drama Kafeel, accompanied by a hard-hitting note on emotional abuse, divorce stigma and the silent struggles many women endure in toxic marriages.
In the carousel post, the actress reflected on her character Zeba’s journey, calling her a “sweet mama bear” who has finally found freedom after walking out of an emotionally abusive marriage.
Saeed wrote that while Zeba may have stayed silent for years “one silence, a hundred comforts” the cost of remaining in a dysfunctional relationship was high. She highlighted how exposing children to constant conflict and humiliation can leave them carrying childhood trauma into adulthood.
However, she also acknowledged that Zeba’s unwavering dedication to her children helped them grow into “sensitive, smart, kind and well-mannered young adults.” She emphasized that they now deserve a safe and peaceful environment to grow and see their mother thrive without stress or arguments.
Addressing a broader social issue, Saeed pointed out that women often remain in abusive marriages not because they are weak but because abuse can psychologically and physically rewire the nervous system. She noted that hope is frequently mistaken for fear, and many women stay believing their partner will change “for the children.”
The actress further stressed that society tends to judge divorced women rather than support them, adding that the stigma surrounding divorce prevents many women from rebuilding their lives freely. She urged for greater empathy and collective responsibility in supporting women who choose to leave unhealthy marriages.
Praising her character’s decision, Saeed wrote that while Zeba may feel she lost her youth, she still has half her life ahead of her and deserves to live it with happiness and peace.
She concluded the post by thanking writer Umera Ahmed for creating another “powerful, relatable and honest character.”
The post resonated with fans, sparking online discussions about emotional abuse, societal pressures, and the need to create safe spaces for women and children.