Former contestant claims female participants faced unequal treatment during competition
KARACHI: Pakistani media personality and former Tamasha contestant Zainab Raja has made a series of allegations about her experience on the reality television show, claiming that female contestants faced unequal treatment and that viewers did not see everything that happened behind the scenes.
In a video shared on Instagram, Zainab said she had no objection to how the programme was edited. However, she alleged that the competition itself was unfair because male contestants were permitted to leave the house every Friday to attend Jummah prayers, while female participants remained inside.
According to Zainab, those outings allegedly gave male contestants access to information about events outside the show. She claimed some contestants met fans during the trips, while one participant was reportedly able to speak with an assistant or manager regarding business matters. She further alleged that contestants occasionally learned about public opinion and online reactions before returning to the house.
Claims extend to production practices
Zainab also made allegations about the programme’s production, claiming housekeeping standards were poor and that bedsheets were not changed regularly.
In addition, she alleged that the show’s host, Badshah Salamat, received guidance from the production team on what to say to contestants. According to her, some confrontations were planned to increase television ratings.
Describing reality television as different from what viewers ultimately see, she claimed that storylines often follow a predetermined format designed to boost audience engagement.
Industry criticism and broadcaster response
Addressing criticism over similar remarks she made previously, Zainab said she had been accused of attempting to damage the reputation of the programme and its broadcaster. She rejected those accusations, saying she was simply sharing her personal experience.
She also expressed disappointment over what she described as the entertainment industry’s response following the death of actor Humaira Asghar, saying the late performer deserved greater recognition for her contributions.
Neither the programme’s producers, broadcaster nor the individuals mentioned had publicly responded to Zainab’s allegations at the time of publication. Her claims have not been independently verified. Meanwhile, the video has generated widespread discussion on social media, with users expressing differing views on her remarks.
