Hira Mani, a Pakistani actor noted for her candor, recently spoke with Arab News on the difficulties of dealing with internet trolls and how she has learned to be more cautious in expressing her ideas. She also discussed her views on feminism and her relationship with her husband, Salman Saqib Sheikh, popularly known as Mani.

Hira has faced various scandals throughout her career, frequently drawing criticism for her comments on women’s issues. In response, the actor told the publication, “There is a lot of disruption [due to controversies].” It is better to ponder before speaking, and there is no danger in doing so.”

When asked about people’s sensitivity, the actor responded, “One learns. People are extremely sensitive. They make a mistake. But why is this so? Why can’t they be normal and straightforward? They haunt you, taunt you till you cry and hide your face in your pillow. They bring you to a point where you don’t feel [at] ease.” She drew tremendous flak on social media in the past for expressing support for a case involving child marriage and possible abduction. Hira later apologized for her comments, recognizing the importance of sensitivity and understanding.

One of the most prominent issues involving the actor happened in 2019, when she stated that men were more brilliant than women and deserved to be heard. This, along with other comments, sparked allegations of carelessness, insensitivity, and anti-feminism. Hira clarified her stance on feminism by emphasizing her support for women who had been mistreated.

“Feminism for me is that if there is a woman on the set who is new and doesn’t know the industry, you should guide her,” she explained. “We claim to be feminists, but somewhere inside us, the actor or actress emerges, leaving the feminist behind.” It’s not enough to declare you’re a feminist; your attitude and behavior should reflect that.”

While Hira has had wonderful interactions with males in her own life, she recognizes that not every woman has the same opportunity. “Whatever I say about men [on various forums], my experience with men has been positive.” “Every girl may not have had the same experience,” she explained.

Hira has been a passionate supporter of her husband, broadcaster and actor Mani, since their marriage in 2008. After the release of Teri Meri Kahaniyaan, the actor issued a message criticizing her husband’s detractors while praising his craft. In response to charges that they were using each other’s success, she expressed genuine admiration for Mani and thanked God for his greater renown than her own.

Furthermore, Hira loved Mani’s ability to immerse himself in varied roles when working with her husband in director Nabeel Qureshi’s Jin Mahal from Teri Meri Kahaniyaan. She acknowledged the initial obstacle she experienced, learning that her assumption that she was the only one capable of such performances was false. “It was difficult to work with (Mani) because I knew he had done more work than just movies.” [He] fits in so perfectly as the character. “I used to believe that only I could do it,” the actor explained.

Hira has made a reputation for herself in Pakistan’s entertainment business by playing significant roles in popular television dramas such as Do Bol, Mere Paas Tum Ho, Kashf, and Bandish. Her conversation is a tribute to the changing character of individuals, demonstrating how everyone has a learning curve as time passes.