Theatre actor Ruby Anum is facing criticism after making ageist and disrespectful remarks about legendary actress Bushra Ansari during an appearance on Sabih Sumair’s podcast.
During the show, the host asked Anum to share her thoughts on several female celebrities, including Mehwish Hayat, Sajal Aly, Hania Aamir, Bushra Ansari, and Asma Abbas.
In the beginning, her words seemed joking in nature. She praised Sajal Aly for her beauty, saying she would have made her a “sister-in-law” if her brothers weren’t already married. She then accused Mehwish Hayat of using “botox” and called Hania Aamir “the pride of Pakistan.”
When she was asked about senior actors her tone instantly changes and became sharp. Speaking about Bushra Ansari, she said:
“She is older than our mothers. She should rest at this age and fear Allah.”
Anum added that Ansari’s vlogs “don’t suit her” and even claimed she wasn’t “beautiful” enough to continue acting.
She also criticized Asma Abbas for being active at that age and her shopping.
These remarks quickly sparked harsh reaction in the entertainment industry.
Actor Zhalay Sarhadi called the comments “rude, intrusive, and disrespectful,” accusing Anum of seeking cheap publicity.
Veteran actress Mishi Khan released a video response, saying:
“Bushra Ansari has the full right to act, vlog, and live her life however she wants. She has maintained herself so well, MashaAllah. Ruby Anum’s comments were below the belt.”
She further reminded Anum that Asma Abbas had always treated her with respect, yet she still spoke negatively about her.
This controversy has raised a bigger question: why do some actors feel the need to police women’s choices, appearances, and age?
At a time when the industry is already struggling with misogyny, ageism, and beauty pressures, many believe women should support each other instead of tearing one another down.
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