Veteran actress Hina Khawaja Bayat has responded to the recent controversy surrounding actress Saba Qamar’s comments about Karachi, urging for unity rather than division between the citizens of different cities.

Saba Qamar recently sparked backlash during a podcast when she stated that she dislikes Karachi and only visits the city for work. When asked if she had ever considered moving to Karachi, Qamar immediately responded with “Astaghfirullah,” expressing her discomfort with the city. This comment led to an outcry on social media, with many criticizing her for disrespecting Karachi and its people. However, some also defended her statement.

In response to the controversy, Hina Khawaja Bayat shared a video on her Instagram, where she emphasized the importance of thoughtful speech. “There’s an old saying: ‘Think before you speak,’” Bayat remarked, adding that sometimes we say things in jest that may carry underlying negativity or harsh truths. She pointed out that people were right in criticizing Saba Qamar for her choice of words, as saying “Astaghfirullah” in reference to Karachi could hurt the feelings of its residents.

Bayat, who has spent her entire life in Karachi, expressed her deep connection to the city, acknowledging that while she has witnessed the city’s decline, she still loves and respects it. She clarified that while she admires Lahore’s beauty and greenery, she never mocks its air pollution or smog. “You cannot make yourself better by belittling others,” she said, emphasizing that divisive remarks between cities have led to unnecessary conflicts.

Bayat also highlighted Karachi’s unique cultural blend, noting that it represents all of Pakistan, with people from every province and background living there. She encouraged those who work in Karachi to provide constructive criticism of the city rather than demeaning it.

Concluding her message, Hina Khawaja Bayat reminded everyone that Pakistan is one nation and its cities are like different rooms in one house. Regardless of where we live, we should take ownership of the entire country, not just our own cities, she said. She also urged people from other cities to support Karachi as Karachiites have always stood up for the rights of people across Pakistan.

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