She had to disguise herself as a man to support her and her daughter.
Pakistani drama Bakhtawar captured the viewers’ attention in 2022 but did you know it is inspired by the real-life story of one woman?
The show starred Yumna Zaidi and was critically acclaimed.
In Pakistan, women face a narrow range of acceptable professions and are subjected to scrutiny if they deviate from societal norms.
Farheen Ishtiaq, also known as the real-life Bakhtawar, exemplifies the challenges and resilience of women navigating these constraints.
For years, Farheen has been carving out a career in Lahore, all while shouldering the responsibilities of single motherhood.
Her journey was recently spotlighted when she appeared as a guest on Morning With Fiza, where she candidly shared her life story.
Farheen disclosed that her marriage, a love marriage, that began 16 years ago lasted a mere six months before her husband inexplicably vanished.
Left alone to care for their child, Farheen found herself thrust into the daunting task of providing for her daughter.
She had to disguise herself as a man to support her and her daughter.
In the aftermath of her husband’s disappearance, Farheen embarked on a year-long quest to locate him, hoping for answers or closure.
However, her efforts proved futile, leading her to the painful realisation that she had been deceived.
Resolute in her determination to forge ahead, Farheen made the difficult decision to cease her struggle in searching for her husband.
After several years, Farheen’s ex-husband resurfaced, expressing a sudden interest in their child, a child he had seemingly forgotten. He did not even know the gender of his child.
Now 15 years old, Farheen’s daughter expressed a desire to reconnect with her father, a prospect that stirred complex emotions within Farheen.
Acknowledging her daughter’s longing for a paternal connection, Farheen approached the situation with grace and understanding.
She told her daughter that she did not know where he was.
Fiza requested viewers to help Farheen. She said that they both live in a hostel.
“Please help them so she can go back to being a woman and have her own home.”
Fans were touched by Farheen’s story.
A user said: “Farheen embodies the strength and resilience of women who refuse to be defined by societal constraints, forging their own paths with determination and grace.”
Another wrote: “The world is so cruel and ruthless. This is an extremely strong woman.”
One commented: “The drama Bakhtawar did not nearly depict all the struggle Farheen went through. It brings tears to my eyes.”
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