Pakistan’s well-known actress Memoona Qudoos recently shared her experiences of discrimination and harassment at the start of her career during an appearance on Neo TV channel’s program “Zabardast With Wasi Shah.” Beauty queen revealed that at the age of 22 or 23, she moved to another city alone to pursue a career in the entertainment industry but faced big challenges. Despite being from the same country and a Muslim, Memoona felt neglected and unsupported.
Raised by her late uncle, she further expressed regret that he did not live to see her career succeed. She also disclosed that she faced jealousy from senior actresses, even those who were older, calling them ‘aunties,’ and faced hardships due to their envy.
Memoona stated that despite the difficulties, including harassment, she didn’t give up. When she reported the harassment, it only led to more problems, and she felt that complaining harmed her further.
In a more broader comment, Memoona disclosed that harassment is a widespread issue in Pakistani society and especially showbiz industry, stating that nearly every working woman encounters it, and those who claim otherwise are either lying or fearful.