Age gaps ignite row between Fahad Mustafa, Atiqa Odho

Tiff ensues after latter suggests Fahad should consider working opposite women closer to his own age

A public exchange has unfolded between Pakistani actors Fahad Mustafa and Atiqa Odho after the veteran star suggested that he should consider working opposite women closer to his own age.

Odho made the comments during a television appearance in which she was shown photographs of various actors and asked to offer her views. When Mustafa's image appeared, she remarked that "the time has come for him to work with girls of his own age I mean women," implying that leading men should be more mindful of age gaps with their on-screen partners.

Mustafa responded during a television transmission alongside fellow actor Humayun Saeed. Adopting a sarcastic tone, he questioned Odho's criticism.

"I don't know what problem Atiqa aapa has. Perhaps she will only be happy if Humayun and I start playing heroes opposite her. This has crossed all limits," he said.

He went on to add, "Atiqa aapa, it seems you are the only heroine left for us now. Inshallah, we will work with you. Just get two or four good surgeries, and we will come."

Odho later responded to Mustafa's remarks, saying that "truth obviously hurt" him. She noted that during the same show she had praised his hard work and good looks, but he chose to respond with personal comments. "Pity," she added.

The debate also echoes comments made by Atiqa Odho around two years ago, when she questioned age gaps in the industry, including the pairing of older male actors with significantly younger female leads. At the time, she had specifically commented on actor Humayun Saeed and his on-screen casting opposite younger actresses.