Pakistani actor Hira Mani, known for her candid nature, recently sat down to discuss the challenges she faces dealing with online trolls and how she has learned to be more thoughtful in expressing her opinions. She also took the opportunity to share her perspective on feminism and shed some light on her experience working with her husband, Salman Saqib Sheikh, popularly known as Mani.
Throughout her career, Hira has found herself embroiled in several controversies, often attracting criticism for her remarks on women’s issues. Addressing these controversies, the actor remarked, “There is a lot of disturbance [due to controversies]. One should think before speaking, and there is no harm in it.”
Recognizing the sensitivities of people, Hira expressed her frustration, saying, “People are very sensitive. They misinterpret. But why? Why can’t they be normal and simple? They haunt you, taunt you so much until you cry hiding your face in the pillow. They take you to a level where you don’t feel at peace.” Previously, Hira faced significant backlash on social media for expressing support for a case involving child marriage and potential abduction. Subsequently, she offered an apology, acknowledging the need for sensitivity and understanding.
One of the most notable controversies surrounding Hira occurred in 2019 when she made a statement suggesting that men were more intelligent than women and deserved to be heard. This remark, along with others, led to accusations of irresponsibility, insensitivity, and anti-feminism. Clarifying her stance on feminism, Hira emphasized her support for women in instances of mistreatment.
“For me, feminism is, if there is a woman with you on the set who is new and doesn’t know the industry, you should guide her,” she said. “We do say we are feminists, but somewhere the actor or actress inside us comes out and the feminist is left behind. It’s not enough to say that you are a feminist; one’s character and behavior should also show that.”
While Hira spoke positively about her experiences with men in her personal life, she acknowledged that not every woman shares the same privilege. “What I say about men [on different forums], my experience with men has been good. Every girl may not have had the same,” she stated.
Throughout her marriage to actor and host Mani since 2008, Hira has been vocal in her support for her husband. The actor even penned a note defending her husband against naysayers and appreciating his talent after the release of Teri Meri Kahaniyaan. Responding to allegations of leveraging each other’s success, she expressed deep admiration for Mani and thanked God for his greater fame compared to her own.
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Furthermore, reflecting on her experience working with her husband in director Nabeel Qureshi’s Jin Mahal from Teri Meri Kahaniyaan, Hira admired Mani’s ability to immerse himself in diverse characters. She acknowledged the initial challenge she faced, realizing that her belief that only she could deliver such performances was unfounded. “It was challenging to work with (Mani) because I knew he has done more work as well as movies. [He] adapts so well into the character. I used to think only I can do it,” said the actor.
With an extensive career in Pakistan’s entertainment industry, Hira has solidified her name through her portrayal of prominent roles in popular television dramas like Do Bol, Mere Paas Tum Ho, Kashf, and Bandish. Her interview serves as a testament to the changing nature of individuals, highlighting how everyone has a learning curve as time goes by.
