Mani Talks About Being Called ‘Zan Mureed’ for Supporting Hira Mani

In a candid conversation with Ahmad Ali Butt on his podcast Excuse Me with Ahmad Ali Butt, actor and producer Salman Saqib — better known as Mani — opened up about facing harsh criticism for supporting his wife, Hira Mani, in her career.

During the interview, Butt praised Mani for backing Hira at the start of her career, a time when many in Pakistani society discouraged women from entering showbiz. Recalling how Mani stood by Hira when she shifted from hosting to acting, Butt said, “You have made your wife.”

Mani responded by acknowledging that while Hira had talent and earned her success, his support played a key role. He added, “We live in a society where women aren’t allowed to step out easily. Because I supported her, people trolled and criticised me heavily.”

Mani admitted that such remarks once hurt him, but he and Hira have since moved past them. He didn’t agree with the claim that he “made” his wife, but he addressed the label people often used against him — “zan mureed” (a man subservient to his wife).

“People call me ‘zan mureed,’ but I believe one must be supportive,” Mani said. “If I had a daughter, I would want her to become a swimmer or an athlete, to work and stand on her own feet.”

He explained that he supported Hira not just because she was his wife but because he believed women deserved the chance to pursue their ambitions. “Even if it weren’t Hira but someone else, I would have supported her talent in the same way. I would never want a woman to say she failed because I held her back.”

Mani criticised the rigid traditional family systems celebrated in the region. “We force this khandani system down everyone’s throat,” he said. “These traditions are dictated. Maybe it’s a problem rooted in India and Pakistan. Doing things differently doesn’t mean we have become westernised.”

He credited his progressive outlook to his father, who was also an actor and supported his daughter’s career. Mani stressed that he wanted to keep the chain of talent alive in his family, whether through women or men. “Whether it’s my wife’s sister or another relative, I would feel equally proud of their success.”

Butt noted how rare it is for someone to truly celebrate another’s success. Mani agreed and praised Hira for her resilience. “Hira has proven herself through her acting. She faced many setbacks but always stood back up. We have seen many ups and downs.”

They also discussed the struggles working women face in balancing professional and personal life. Mani shared how demanding Hira’s work routine could be. “You’ve seen drama shoots — long, exhausting hours. Yet when Hira comes home, she cooks meals like parathas and daal for the kids without complaint.”

Mani concluded by calling for a cultural shift where people respect and support women’s dreams. “I feel this way for all girls,” he said.

Also Read: Hira Mani Faces Backlash Over No-Makeup Look