Mishi Khan slams dramas for stereotyping hijab-wearing women

Pakistani actress and television host Mishi Khan has criticised drama writers for portraying hijab-wearing women as oppressed and helpless while often presenting women in Western clothing as confident but morally questionable.

In a recent video shared on social media, Mishi questioned the recurring character stereotypes in Pakistani dramas. She argued that women who wear hijab are frequently depicted as frightened, powerless and dependent, while women dressed in Western outfits are often shown as rebellious or involved in activities such as clubbing.

Questioning the approach, Mishi asked why writers repeatedly portray women through such extreme contrasts. She said that a woman’s clothing should not determine how her character, confidence or personal values are represented on screen.

The actress also highlighted how these portrayals can reinforce misleading assumptions about women from different backgrounds. Her remarks have brought renewed attention to the way female characters are written in Pakistan’s television industry.

Mishi is known for openly sharing her views on social and entertainment-related issues. She has also been reviewing television dramas through videos and vlogs on Instagram.

Her comments have prompted mixed reactions online. Some social media users agreed with her criticism and said Pakistani dramas often rely on predictable stereotypes. Others viewed the issue through a broader cultural and religious lens, arguing that such portrayals can contribute to negative perceptions of Muslim women.

The discussion has once again raised questions about the responsibility of drama writers to create balanced female characters. Viewers increasingly expect television stories to move beyond simplistic portrayals and reflect the diversity, independence and individual experiences of women in society.