"We have already rejected this movement."
Pakistani fashion designer Maria B has strongly responded to the backlash she faced from Lahore’s Aurat March organisers.
She dismissed the protest as an unsuccessful attempt to target her.
In a statement addressing the recent demonstration, she criticised the movement, calling it “Qaum e Lout March” and “Unsuccessful Women’s March”.
The designer also reaffirmed her stance on Islamic values and women’s independence.
Maria B asserted that she and many Pakistani women reject the ideology of the Aurat March.
Maria emphasised that women in Pakistan prioritise family, success, and religious values over what she called a foreign-funded agenda.
She accused activists of promoting narratives that do not reflect the aspirations of most Pakistani women.
Her remarks followed a protest held on February 12, 2025, where demonstrators marched from the Press Club to Faletti’s Hotel.
The protestors held placards aimed at Maria B and former actress Mishi Khan.
In her response, Maria B questioned the motives behind the protest.
She stated that she had seen the slogans against her and Mishi Khan and found them to be in poor taste.
Maria said: “We have already rejected this movement. Pakistani women want to be independent and successful for their families.
“They do not follow failed designers, makeup artists, and activists living off funding.”
The designer alleged that those participating in the Aurat March were paid to promote a specific agenda.
Maria claimed they did not represent the majority of women in the country.
She argued that empowerment comes through adhering to Islamic teachings and strengthening family structures rather than engaging in protests.
Following her statement, Maria B received widespread support, with many praising her for standing by her beliefs.
Some users claimed they had become her supporters due to her vocal opposition to the Aurat March.
Mishi Khan also thanked Maria B for her strong stance against the protestors.
The debate surrounding the Aurat March has once again exposed deep societal divisions in Pakistan.
Feminists and activists view the movement as a necessary platform for addressing women’s rights.
View this post on Instagram
However, conservative voices like Maria B argued that it promotes values that conflict with Pakistan’s cultural and religious identity.
The annual Aurat March continues to spark controversy due to its slogans and demands for gender equality.
With public opinion sharply divided, Maria B remains firm in her stance.
She has become one of the most vocal figures in Pakistan’s ongoing discourse on feminism and women’s empowerment.
Loading ...