Pakistani actress, singer, and television host Fiza, who had been trending throughout Ramadan for her show alongside Nabiha Ali Khan, recently surprised fans with the dramatic announcement of her marriage to Ejaz Khan. While the newlywed star appeared to be enjoying a blissful phase in her personal life, a recent episode of her show has now pulled her into controversy.

During a live segment, Fiza invited her husband onto the show for what seemed like a lighthearted interaction. In a candid exchange, she asked Ejaz whether he could lift her in his arms without hesitation, he agreed and within seconds, he lifted her on-air. The spontaneous moment, filled with laughter from Fiza and her daughter Faraal, quickly made its way across digital platforms.

However, what was intended as a playful gesture between a couple didn’t sit well with many viewers. The clip went viral, drawing criticism from various quarters, including members of the public, media commentators, and even figures from the political sphere. Many labeled the act “inappropriate” for television, especially given the cultural sensitivities of a Ramadan transmission.

As backlash intensified, Fiza Ali chose to address the controversy directly. Taking to Instagram, she clarified that the moment was entirely spontaneous and taken out of context, she emphasized that there was no ill intent behind the act, describing it as a natural, candid interaction between husband and wife.

Fiza further stated that she holds deep respect for her audience and her work, adding that she remains committed to maintaining that respect moving forward. Despite her clarification, the internet appears divided. While some fans supported her honesty and defended her right to express joy in her personal life, others remained critical.

Social media reactions have been sharp and, at times, unforgiving. One user commented that she should reconsider appearing on television, while another sarcastically suggested she “lift her husband and leave.” Others questioned the appropriateness of such content on mainstream TV, especially during a religious month.

Read more: Fiza Ali Wears Husband’s Clothes on TV, Hear Her Out!

In a recent conversation, actor Namra Shahid spoke candidly about the entertainment industry’s inner workings, highlighting the glaring disconnect between genuine talent and public recognition.

Though she briefly mentioned her role as Asiya in the drama Muamma, her focus centered on the less visible dynamics that shape careers. “Awards don’t really go to the most deserving,” she remarked, noting that recognition often hinges on “PR, contacts, and followers” rather than merit alone.

She pointed out how social media has started to matter just as much as acting itself.

“If you’re not active online, people think you’re not working,” she shared, hinting at the pressure actors now face to stay visible all the time.

For her, this shift feels unfair, especially for those who focus more on their craft than their online image. Talking about favouritism, Namra kept it real. “There is favouritism, of course there is,” she said, without sugarcoating it.

According to her, the system often rewards those who play the game right rather than those who put in the most effort on screen. It’s something she has experienced first-hand, especially when it comes to award shows and recognition.

At the same time, she made it clear that good work still exists. Recalling her experience working with Saba Qamar, she said, “She’s very professional and makes you feel comfortable,” showing that not everything in the industry is surface-level.

After taking a two-and-a-half-year break, Namra returned to a space that felt different. “Things have changed a lot,” she noted, especially with how much importance is now given to image and online presence.

Even when she spoke about learning Saraiki for a project with Kashif Nisar, she hinted at how such hard work often goes unnoticed. “You work so hard on a role, but that’s not what gets highlighted,” she said.

Through it all, Namra’s tone stayed honest and grounded, calling out the system, but still holding on to the importance of real acting.

Read more: Namra Shahid On Muamma & Working With Saba Qamar

Pakistani cinema is once more drawing international attention, reflecting the industry’s expanding global influence. The latest example is the film Mera Lyari, scheduled for its world premiere on May 2, 2026, as part of the 28th UK Asian Film Festival hosted at London’s British Film Institute.

For years, cinematic portrayals of Karachi’s Lyari neighborhood have predominantly framed it through the lens of crime and turmoil. Mera Lyari counters this established narrative by foregrounding the community’s vitality, perseverance, and its significant role in nurturing Pakistan’s sporting talent. The film seeks to reframe Lyari’s image, offering a more authentic perspective centred on its residents, cultural life, and profound passion for football.

Mera Lyari was first released in Pakistan in January 2026 with support from the Sindh government. The film features a strong cast including Dananeer Mobeen, Ayesha Omar and Samiya Mumtaz. It is written and directed by Abu Aleeha, who has tried to tell a story that reflects everyday life in Lyari rather than repeating familiar stereotypes.

A notable aspect of the film is that many members of the supporting cast are from Lyari. Their involvement adds a sense of authenticity to the story, allowing the film to present a more natural and honest reflection of the community, its language and its way of life.

At its core, the film revolves around football, a sport that holds a special place in the area. It shows how the game brings people together and serves as a source of hope and identity for the community. Through its characters and setting, the film presents Lyari as a centre of talent and culture, rather than one of violence.

The release of Mera Lyari also comes in response to the Indian film Dhurandhar, which faced criticism for its portrayal of Lyari as a hub of terrorism and gang conflict. The depiction sparked displeasure among those in Pakistan, with many arguing that the movie ignored the area’s positive aspects.

The controversy even led to a constitutional petition being filed in a Karachi court, particularly over the portrayal of political figures such as Benazir Bhutto.

By taking the film to an international platform, the makers of Mera Lyari hope to offer a more balanced perspective of the area and of Karachi as a whole. The screening at the UK festival may open new doors for Pakistani cinema, while also helping reshape global perceptions of the country.

More importantly, the film sends a clear message: Lyari is more than the stereotypes and stories; it is a place of culture, sport and community.

Read more: Sindh Minister Announces ‘Mera Lyari’ To Showcase Lyari’s True Spirit