'I don't fit in mold', Kubra Khan speaks out on beauty standards
Pakistani actress Kubra Khan has candidly spoken about the appearance based criticism and age shaming she faced while Doctor Bahu was on air, admitting that although she chose not to respond publicly, the comments deeply affected her.
During her latest appearance on ‘Gloss Etc. by Maliha Rehman’, Kubra reflected on the online criticism surrounding her on-screen pairing with actor Shuja Asad, who plays Salman in the hit drama.
Host Maliha Rehman recalled how, shortly after the drama premiered, many viewers questioned whether Kubra's character, Sania, and Shuja Asad's Salman looked convincing together on screen. She also pointed out that Kubra had faced similar conversations during Noor Jahan, asking whether such discussions were hurtful.
Responding honestly, Kubra said:
"Of course. Just because I don't respond doesn't mean I'm not affected by it."
The actress went on to criticize the unrealistic beauty standards that, in her opinion, continue to dominate the entertainment industry and society.
She explained that people often expect actresses to fit into a narrow definition of beauty.
"Our industry and our culture have created a very small mold that not everyone can fit into. Unfortunately, I'm one of those people who doesn't fit that mold."
Kubra added that women are frequently judged based on their appearance rather than their talent.
"People think a girl has to be fair-skinned, size zero, tall, or have perfect hair to be considered beautiful. If you don't fit into that mold, you're made to feel like you're not good enough."
She admitted that she has lived with such judgments for years but has realized that it is impossible to justify herself to everyone or seek validation from every opinion.
Kubra currently stars as Dr. Sania in Doctor Bahu, where her nuanced portrayal of a compassionate and resilient doctor has earned praise from viewers. The drama explores themes of gender bias, family expectations, and women's struggle for professional identity, with Kubra's emotionally layered performance emerging as one of the show's highlights.