Renowned Pakistani actress and model Zhalay Sarhadi has opened up about the troubling realities of the entertainment industry, highlighting issues of harassment, exploitation, and misogyny that many women face behind the scenes.
In a recent podcast appearance, Zhalay bravely recounted an incident from the early days of her acting career. She shared how she was once indirectly told that in order to secure a desired role, she would need to compromise her dignity, similar to how “other women sleep with someone for roles.”
Her reaction was firm and fearless.
“I lost it, which is normal. I told them I’m doing this to fund my education, and if anyone approaches me like that again, I’ll slap them,” she said.
Zhalay made it clear that she had to establish her boundaries early on in her career. She recalled how she had to “give a shut-up call” to a few people who crossed the line.
Although the comments directed at her were not physically threatening, she stressed that such offers were deeply inappropriate and, unfortunately, not uncommon in the industry.
Zhalay didn’t stop at just addressing harassment. She also called out toxic cultural beliefs that discourage women’s independence. Responding to a common saying “aurat ki kamayi mein barkat nahi hoti” (there’s no blessing in a woman’s income), Zhalay shared her personal story to challenge the idea.
“I’ve funded my own education, my own wedding, and bought my own car,” she stated.
She emphasized that her income is just as meaningful and blessed as any man’s, pushing back against sexist stereotypes deeply rooted in society.
“I Had to Be Intimidating”
When asked whether her strong and assertive personality developed as a defense mechanism, Zhalay replied honestly:
“Possibly. I’m intimidating. I had to be.”
She also remembered being rejected for a role simply because of her height.
“He was the director, but what did my height have to do with anything?” she questioned, pointing out the superficial and baseless judgments women often face in showbiz.
When asked if the same director is still working in the industry, she replied with sharp sarcasm:
“MashaAllah, yes. Such people remain a part of the industry.”
Mehar Bano Echoes Concerns
Zhalay’s revelations were soon echoed by fellow actress Mehar Bano, who also spoke about the widespread harassment in the entertainment world. Appearing on Hansna Mana Hai, she confirmed that both men and women face inappropriate behavior and pressure from people in power.
“People with power offer work in exchange for favors. These things happen more than people realize,” she said.
Mehar highlighted that despite the industry’s glamorous image, it hides a harsh and manipulative side.
“It’s a world full of attractive faces, but it’s also full of manipulation and pressure,” she added.
In a lighter moment, Mehar shared an unusual memory from her acting experience:
“We had a co-actor once whose body odor was really strong, but I stayed professional and didn’t say anything.”
