Durefishan Weighs In On Dar-e-Nijaat Dress Controversy: ‘The Choice Isn’t The Issue, Judging It Is’

She said Dar-e-Nijaat tells Zaryab’s story: “her imperfections, her flaws, her contradictions as a woman.” She added that the audience is entitled to its opinion on it.

She did, however, question the need to blow a narrative choice out of proportion and make it a national emergency. “Not every character arc needs a panel discussion, a jury and a final verdict from the internet.”

“You don’t have to agree with Zaryab, you don’t have to relate to her, and you certainly don’t have to make her journey your own… Sometimes, it is simply someone else’s story.”

She said that, unlike her character, she is comfortable wearing sleeveless clothing and has been for some time. “That’s my personal relationship with modesty and someone else’s may look very different to it,” Saleem said.

She said her faith does not grant her the right to judge others, nor does it give others the right to judge her. She reiterated that what she chooses to wear, be comfortable with and change about herself is her own business.