When Nadia Hussain speaks, people listen, even when her words challenge societal taboos.

A household name in Pakistan, known for her modelling, acting, and sharp entrepreneurial acumen, Nadia has never been one to hide behind polite silence. Whether defending her family amidst recent personal controversy or addressing deeply polarizing issues, she speaks with the kind of fearless clarity that’s rare in mainstream media. And her latest appearance on the podcast proved no different.

The topic? Queerness is a subject often reduced to whispers, mockery, or outright denial in Pakistan’s public discourse.

When asked if homosexuality exists within the world of fashion and showbiz, Nadia didn’t flinch. “Of course it does,” she said, “but singling out one industry is unfair and intellectually dishonest.”

She was quick to challenge the assumption that queerness or cases of same-sex behavior are a product of the entertainment industry alone. “Why are we only asking this about fashion or showbiz?” she posed. “Are we willing to talk about what happens in religious seminaries? In our villages? Or even in our so-called ‘moral’ households?”

Nadia referenced a moment involving Dr. Zakir Naik, a well-known Islamic scholar, where a girl once raised this question, pointing to such incidents in religious spaces. According to Nadia, his answer sidestepped the reality, highlighting how this uncomfortable truth is often brushed under the rug.

But perhaps the most striking part of her comments was her reference to Pakistan’s Northern Areas, often romanticised for their beauty, but rarely scrutinised socially. Nadia revealed that for years she has heard stories of same-sex abuse and behaviour from that region. “These things happen there too, and no one wants to talk about it,” she stated. “So why the selective outrage when it happens in media or fashion?”

“People need to stop being judgmental and start understanding the bigger picture. Human behaviour, identity, and struggle aren’t boxed into just one profession or place. We need to acknowledge that.”

In a country where even acknowledging LGBTQ+ existence is considered controversial, Nadia Hussain’s unfiltered take shifts the lens away from one community and placing responsibility on the entire society, she invited Pakistanis to confront their own contradictions.

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The tragic story of model and actress Humaira Asghar continues to haunt many; her lifeless body was found in her Karachi apartment, nine months after her passing. As the disturbing mystery surrounding her death spread like wildfire, many speculated about her family’s silence. Now, for the first time, her grieving parents have come forward, breaking their silence in an interview.

“She Was Full of Life and Passion,” Says Father

In an emotional conversation with Lahore Rang, Humaira’s father, Dr. Asghar, shared glimpses of the daughter he raised. “She was always into art,” he said, recounting her early days. A graduate of the prestigious National College of Arts (NCA), Humaira later pursued a career in showbiz, relocating to Karachi seven years ago with her father’s full support. “She had my permission to chase her dreams,” he added, brushing away claims that he abandoned her.

Humaira’s parents revealed they were in touch with her frequently, and she used to visit them every couple of months, maintaining a loving bond. However, things took a chilling turn when they lost contact with her last August.

“Her Last Call Was a Cry for Help,” Mother Recalls

Humaira’s mother recounted their last conversation. “She said her SIM cards were being blocked and she needed help,” she shared, visibly shaken. But the help Humaira needed was never made clear, and after that day, communication ceased.

The couple admitted they didn’t follow up due to their unfamiliarity with Karachi and not knowing anyone there. However, they insist the rumors that they refused to accept her body are false. Dr. Asghar clarified that as a doctor, he knew a post-mortem was necessary before the body could be claimed.

“She Had Money – She Would Never Leave Rent Unpaid”

Dr. Asghar suspects foul play. “She had money. It’s impossible she wouldn’t pay her rent.” He also firmly denied ever having disputes with her over property. “Humaira would never say something so low. She never asked for her share – never.”

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Pakistan’s Olympic champion Arshad Nadeem, who made the nation proud with his historic gold medal win in javelin at the 2024 Paris Olympics, has now come forward with a startling revelation. Despite being showered with grand promises and accolades, Arshad disclosed that some of the rewards, particularly the much-publicized residential plots never materialized. The athlete’s honest admission has again spotlighted the gap between words and action in the country’s treatment of its sports heroes.

In a recent media talk in London, Arshad Nadeem opened up about the aftermath of his Olympic triumph. “They showered me with announcements of rewards,” he said, adding, “If you look at the plots that were promised, they were all fake.”

While Arshad graciously acknowledged receiving the promised cash awards, including over PKR 300 million from the federal and provincial governments, he made it clear that the land plots touted by various bodies were nothing more than empty gestures. This revelation has left fans disheartened, raising questions about accountability and the sincerity of government and private institutions in supporting national athletes.

Despite the disillusionment, Arshad remains committed to his mission. “Right now, I am concentrating fully on myself because the targets ahead are very big,” he shared, indicating that his sights are set on future championships.

Yet, he hasn’t turned his back on the next generation. The Olympian revealed that he continues to mentor young Pakistani athletes when time allows. “Our youth come to us for training, and Alhamdulillah, we do train them,” he said.

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