Renowned media pioneer and founder of Hum TV, Sultana Siddiqui, recently opened up about a deeply personal chapter of her life during an appearance on PTV’s podcast hosted by Shamoon Hashmi. In a rare and candid conversation, the influential drama producer reflected on the challenges she faced when deciding to part ways with her husband at a time when divorce carried a heavy social stigma.

Sultana Siddiqui began her illustrious career with PTV, initially producing musical shows before making her mark with the culturally rich drama Marvi, based on Sindhi traditions. Her storytelling legacy eventually led her to build one of Pakistan’s most successful entertainment networks—Hum TV. Behind the public success, however, was a personal struggle that remained largely private until now.

Speaking on the podcast, Sultana Siddiqui recalled how she once believed in the ideal of a perfect marriage. “I used to think that marriage was a beautiful institution, where two people make a home together,” she said. “But if that home doesn’t bring peace and stability, especially for children, it’s better to walk away.” She emphasized that women, particularly mothers, often sacrifice their own happiness to preserve the harmony of the household, believing it benefits their children.

Sultana explained that her decision to delay the divorce was influenced by concern for her younger sister’s future. “In those days, people would talk about the elder sister’s divorce and how it could affect the younger sibling’s marriage prospects,” she shared. “It wasn’t an easy decision, but I knew I couldn’t go back unless the elders in the family got involved.”

Clarifying her stance on her former husband, she noted, “He wasn’t a bad man. We just couldn’t connect on key values—particularly when it came to raising children. Sometimes, two people simply don’t share the same vision.”

Sultana Siddiqui’s courageous decision to speak publicly about her divorce has sparked praise from audiences, who admire her strength and honesty

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