We show what's happening in society: Saba Hamid on dramas showing 'oppressed women'

Renowned Pakistani actor Saba Hamid recently addressed a crucial question about the portrayal of women in Pakistani dramas during an episode of Gup Shab with Vasay Chaudhry. Responding to an audience member's inquiry regarding when Pakistani dramas would move away from depicting oppressed women, Saba provided insightful perspectives on the dynamics between societal realities and drama representation.

Saba, a seasoned artist with a deep understanding of the industry, expressed her viewpoint on the role of Pakistani dramas in reflecting societal norms. She stated, "I can't give you a time for when we'll get out of this, because a drama is made on what is visible in society."

Continuing forth, she highlighted, "People think society is influenced by dramas, but I think otherwise. We show what's happening in society in our dramas. If women are visibly oppressed, it will be written about. This perspective sheds light on the cyclical relationship between television dramas and societal narratives. Rather than dramas shaping societal norms, Saba suggests that they serve as a mirror, reflecting the prevalent issues and dynamics within a given society. The actress implies that the focus should extend beyond dramas to address and improve the actual conditions and treatment of women in society.

Pakistani dramas have been both celebrated and criticised for their portrayal of women, often featuring narratives that highlight societal challenges, gender inequality, and the struggles faced by women. Saba's response sparks a larger conversation about the responsibility of the entertainment industry to depict a diverse range of stories while acknowledging and addressing real-world issues.

Previously, whilst in conversation with Urdu News, the veteran star said, "Our dramas should show the honest picture of the society. Dramas should entertain, they shouldn't just [be based] on whining and crying. We should treat dramas just as we treat our routine life. I want to request the writers to make more sitcoms, light-hearted shows."

Talking about viewers having several reservations about questionable content on television, Saba shared, "We can't say that the industry has been destroyed with the recent shows," she mentioned, adding, "It has been in constant change. That's what happens when you are transitioning from older norms to new ones. The shows are still good, they are just different."

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