Veteran Pakistani actress Faryal Gohar has spoken about the domestic abuse and restrictions she says she experienced during her nine-year marriage to actor Jamal Shah. Speaking on Nida Yasir’s Good Morning Pakistan, Gohar discussed her experience with domestic violence. She also highlighted the pressure women often face to remain in abusive relationships.
The actress stressed that domestic abuse can affect women from different social and educational backgrounds. She noted that financial independence does not always protect women from violence or pressure within a marriage.
Gohar said she personally experienced violence during her marriage. According to the actress, the abuse was severe and repeatedly affected her physical health.
She recalled being beaten with leather belts and said the violence contributed to miscarriages. Gohar also described how she concealed her injuries and sometimes missed classes because of them.
The actress further revealed that she suffered severe kidney pain during that period. She eventually underwent surgeries to address her health problems.
Faryal Gohar Recalls Restrictions on Her Freedom
Gohar also spoke about the restrictions she allegedly faced beyond physical abuse.
She said she could not leave the house freely or even go outside for a walk. According to her account, she sometimes had to wear her mother-in-law’s burqa when leaving the house.
The actress also recalled travelling in a covered rickshaw to avoid being seen by others.
Gohar said she was only 23 when she married Jamal Shah. She described the marriage as a decision she had initially made herself.
The actress’s comments have once again drawn attention to the challenges faced by women experiencing domestic abuse. Her account also highlights how controlling behaviour can extend beyond physical violence and affect a woman’s everyday freedom.
Gohar and Jamal Shah’s Marriage Ended in 1992
Earlier this year, Gohar and Shah appeared together on Shan-e-Suhoor. During the programme, they discussed the circumstances surrounding their divorce in 1992.
Gohar previously said Shah valued his freedom and felt unable to remain confined by marriage. Shah also acknowledged publicly that he was “not marriage material.”
Their latest comments have brought renewed attention to their past relationship and Gohar’s account of the difficulties she experienced during the marriage.
