Senior actress Atiqa Odho has stirred major controversy on social media after criticising the concept of arranged marriages during a recent drama review show aired on a private TV channel.

 

Speaking candidly about societal pressures and the emotional challenges faced by individuals in arranged marriages, the actress said, “Forced marriage is painful for anyone, be it a man or a woman. It is psychological torture.”

 

She added, “We are part of a conservative society where boys and girls do not meet, do not talk, and then suddenly get married.”

 

Odho also highlighted, “I often talk to couples who had arranged marriages and ask them what they thought about marriage. Their answers are really surprising.”

 

Expressing concern over the lack of connection between partners before marriage, she said, “I am surprised by the idea that a girl lives behind the scenes her entire life and then suddenly gets forced to marry a stranger.”

 

Her comments have divided public opinion. While some praised her for addressing a taboo topic, others criticised her views, accusing her of pushing a "liberal" narrative.

 

Critics also brought up her personal life, with some users pointing out, “If she couldn’t succeed despite three love marriages, then there’s a big question mark. Instead of reviewing dramas, she’s now judging people’s personal lives.”

 

Others accused the actress of crossing cultural lines: “Atiqa Odho has been making bold statements that go against our values.”

 

Several social media users argued that arranged marriage dynamics have changed in modern times.

 

“Nowadays, boys and girls do get the chance to know each other before marriage calling it ‘forced’ is an exaggeration,” one user noted.

 

Some even called for action from media regulators, saying such remarks should be monitored.

 

“PEMRA should ban shows like these that spread controversial ideas,” a user wrote.