Renowned Pakistani actress Ushna Shah has responded sharply to the criticism she received on social media following her recent vacation pictures from Vienna, Austria.
The actress, known for her roles in popular dramas such as Bashar Momin and Habs, has called out the "hypocrisy" of her critics, sparking a heated debate online.
Shah, who recently married Europe-based Pakistani golfer Hamza Amin, has shared glimpses of her Instagram vacation. However, her attire in these posts has drawn the ire of many Pakistani netizens, leading to a flood of negative comments.
Some accused her of abandoning cultural values and criticized her for embracing a more liberal lifestyle abroad while still working in the conservative Pakistani entertainment industry.
In response, Shah took to social media to express her frustration with the backlash. She accused her critics of being hypocritical, pointing out that while they enjoy her performances in dramas tailored for Pakistani audiences, they are quick to judge her personal choices.
"It’s amusing how people celebrate you when you fit their mold, but the moment you step out of it, they brand you a hypocrite," Shah wrote.
The actress's comments have only added fuel to the controversy, with many social media users reacting strongly to her stance. Some have questioned her loyalty to Pakistan, given her frequent references to her Canadian upbringing and marriage to a "white" man. Others argued that as a public figure, Shah should be prepared to handle both positive and negative feedback gracefully.
One X user stated, "Celebrities like Ushna love the limelight but can't tolerate any criticism. If she’s so liberal, why does she still act in Pakistani dramas that cater to a completely different audience?"