Summary She believes actors should not be blamed for following a script. Says criticism should remain respectful
(Web Desk) - Actor Sahar Hashmi has spoken about the criticism she received for her on-screen hugging scenes in dramas, saying the backlash left her feeling hurt and confused.
In a recent interview, she said she found comparisons to Indian actor Emraan Hashmi unfair and unnecessary.
Social media users nicknamed her "Pakistan’s Emraan Hashmi" because of hugging scenes in the dramas Zanjeerain and Shaidai. Sahar said she was neither the first nor the last actor to perform such scenes. She explained that these moments are part of the script and filmed only when required by the story. According to her, the director asked her to do the scenes only if she felt comfortable.
Sahar said hugging someone of the opposite gender is a reality in many parts of Pakistan, even if some people do not accept it. She believes actors should not be blamed for following a script.
When asked why she faced more criticism than male actors, Sahar joked that it was because of the "Hashmi-Hashmi connection." However, she admitted the backlash has made her more careful about accepting similar scenes in the future. She said dramas are made for audiences, and if viewers dislike something, actors should consider their opinions, but criticism should remain respectful.
The actor also shared how online hate affected her emotionally. She revealed that she often cried herself to sleep and struggled with negative comments. At the same time, she received support from colleagues including Shehzad Sheikh, Nawal Saeed, Feroze Khan, and her director, who encouraged her during difficult moments.
Talking about her career, Sahar said she accepted Zanjeerain mainly because it gave her the chance to work with Sajal Aly, whom she greatly admires. Although they had limited scenes together, she described the experience as valuable and enjoyable.
Sahar also revealed that she had initially turned down the role because the character’s death reminded her of the grief of losing her mother. After her mother’s passing, she suffered panic attacks and struggled to find purpose in life. She eventually accepted the role after producer Momina Duraid personally requested her to join the project.
