Actor and visual artist Naimal Khawar has criticised the growing habit of publicly judging women’s bodies online. Her comments came after social media users speculated about her appearance at a recent wedding.
Some users questioned whether Khawar had gained weight or was pregnant. However, the actor pushed back against such speculation and stressed that women should not face public judgment over natural physical changes.
“It’s honestly fascinating and sad how comfortable people have become commenting on a woman’s body,” Khawar wrote in an Instagram story. “Yes, my weight can fluctuate. Yes, I don’t look the same as I did five years ago. Yes, motherhood changes you in ways you can’t imagine.”
Khawar, known for Anaa and her painting work, is married to actor Hamza Ali Abbasi. The couple welcomed their son in 2020.
Women’s Bodies Naturally Change
Khawar highlighted how age, hormones, stress, health, lifestyle and pregnancy can affect women’s bodies. She argued that these changes should never become an excuse for public commentary.
“Women’s bodies change with age, hormones, stress, health, lifestyle, and yes, sometimes pregnancy too,” she wrote. “None of these things are invitations for public commentary.”
She also encouraged women facing similar criticism to reject pressure to maintain an unchanged appearance.
“You don’t owe anyone the same body you had five years ago, last year, or even last month,” she wrote. “Your body is allowed to change without becoming a topic of entertainment.”
A Wider Conversation Around Body Shaming
Khawar’s remarks reflect a broader discussion about appearance standards in Pakistan’s entertainment industry. Actor Kubra Khan has also spoken about criticism surrounding women’s age, weight and appearance.
“The problem in our industry and culture is that there is a mould, which is so small that everyone can’t fit into it, and unfortunately, I am one of those people who can’t,” Khan said.
Meanwhile, Sanam Jung previously addressed body shaming through Pyari Mona. Her message also challenged society’s tendency to judge people based on appearance.
Ultimately, Khawar’s message highlights a simple point: bodies change throughout life, and nobody owes others an explanation for those changes.
