Actor argues outsiders rarely know the full story behind a celebrity’s marriage, career decisions or family life
Actor Namrah Shahid has weighed in on recent celebrity controversies involving Falak Shabir, Sarah Khan, Khushhal Khan and Ramsha Khan, urging the public to avoid making assumptions about other people’s relationships and personal choices.
Speaking in a recent interview, she said that outsiders rarely know the full story behind a person’s decisions and cautioned against judging celebrities based on speculation circulating online.
Addressing rumours that actor Ramsha Khan stepped away from showbiz after marrying actor Khushhal Khan, Namrah suggested that the decision may have been entirely her own. “I am not saying either Khushhal or Ramsha are wrong. Maybe she made these decisions by her own choice. Maybe she does not want to work anymore,” she said.
The discussion also touched on actor Iqra Aziz, who has taken on fewer projects since becoming a mother. Namrah argued that such choices should not automatically be attributed to external pressure.
“Iqra is a superstar and an amazing actress, and so is Ramsha. Maybe she just doesn’t want to share her personal life anymore. It’s not like her husband told her to leave everything and sit at home overnight,” she said.
Namrah emphasised that people often project their own assumptions onto celebrity couples without knowing the realities of their relationships. “We are not equal even if we try to be, whether it’s because of our choices or our responsibilities,” she remarked.
The conversation then turned to singer Falak Shabir and actor Sarah Khan, particularly the backlash surrounding Falak’s recent remarks urging Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to promote modest dress codes in Lahore.
Reacting to the controversy, Namrah appeared surprised by the criticism directed at the celebrity couple. “But aren’t they in London?” she asked. She noted that families can maintain their values regardless of where they live.
“Falak and Sarah live abroad, so what kind of society do they want when there are far more openly dressed people in London? Kids adapt to the culture they see or the values you provide them,” she said.
At the same time, Namrah suggested that while Falak may have intended to make a broader point, his comments could have been expressed differently.
“I don’t think they are wrong. Maybe he’s right. But there’s a better way to word it. Yes, what he’s saying is that we should work towards being a more Islamic country, but it could have been described better,” she explained.
Namrah also praised Sarah Khan, describing her as one of the most graceful personalities in the entertainment industry. “He has such a good wife, even though she is in the industry. Falak is also a lovely and amazing person. In the industry, Sarah has carried herself so well. She is modest, decent and a very good actress,” she said.
She added that even Sarah’s more glamorous on-screen roles had been portrayed tastefully. “Even the glamorous characters she has played have been portrayed beautifully. The fashion choices and the way she dresses are also very graceful. Falak is the last person who should be worried,” Namrah remarked.
Revealing that she personally knows Sarah Khan’s family, Namrah credited their upbringing for their values and conduct. “I know both of Sarah’s sisters. They have been raised so well. I’ve even met their father. They’ve been brought up with strong values despite being in the entertainment industry,” she said.
She reiterated that people should be careful when commenting on other people’s marriages and family dynamics, as public perceptions often fail to capture the full reality.
The interview also explored Namrah’s own acting journey, including her experience working on Aik Aur Pakeezah with acclaimed director Kashif Nisar.
Namrah revealed that securing the role was far from straightforward because the character required her to perform entirely in Saraiki. “They told me, ‘He wants you to do the entire character in Saraiki,’” she recalled, admitting that she initially doubted whether she could meet the challenge.
According to her, actor Saqib Sameer, a close friend of Nisar, encouraged her not to turn down the opportunity. “Don’t say no. Please never say no in life. Take on this challenge and work on it,” he advised. His encouragement ultimately convinced her to accept the role, a decision she now views as an important step in her growth as an actor.