"When is the right time to speak?"
Veteran actress Atiqa Odho has stirred controversy with her recent remarks on the India-Pakistan tensions, drawing sharp criticism from fellow actors.
Atiqa expressed her support for artists who remained silent, claiming that entertainers are “soft image ambassadors”.
The actress stressed that they should stay out of political disputes.
Her statement quickly sparked backlash across the Pakistani entertainment industry, with several celebrities calling her out.
Leading the charge was actress and TV host Mishi Khan, who expressed shock at Atiqa’s comments.
Mishi didn’t hold back, stating she had expected better from someone of Atiqa’s stature.
She asked: “When should artists speak? Forty civilians have been martyred, countless are injured. When is the right time to speak?”
Mishi also pointed out Atiqa Odho’s friendly ties with Fawad Khan, suggesting that such relationships may have influenced her stance.
She said: “Okay, we know you have great terms with Fawad, but at least stay silent instead of saying such things.”
Fatima Effendi Kanwar, known for her roles in Guddu and Kash Mai Teri Beti Na Hoti, also criticised Atiqa’s comments, accusing her of double standards.
The actress pointed out that she silences actors when it comes to patriotism, but doesn’t hesitate to ridicule their work on her shows.
Fatima didn’t stop there. She also pointed out that Atiqa’s public statement now endangers her own chances of working in India.
Rabya Kulsoom, who appeared in Fraud and Ghamandi, shared a powerful response as well.
She questioned whether terms like “neutrality” and “soft image” were just excuses for avoiding responsibility.
Rabya argued that public figures should not shy away from standing with their people.
She emphasised: “With great power comes great responsibility.”
Kulsoom reminded Atiqa and others that their fame is rooted in their homeland, Pakistan.
She declared that silence is a betrayal during times of national crisis.
Atiqa Odho’s original statement appeared intended to promote peace and avoid further division.
However, the timing and tone of her message backfired. Many see it as dismissive in the face of real tragedy.
Her comments were made amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, with reports of civilian casualties on the Pakistani side causing public outrage.
The conflict has reignited debate over whether artists should speak up during political crises or remain neutral.
While Atiqa Odho insists artists should protect their global image, many peers feel that silence during injustice is complicity.
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