Maria B, a renowned and successful Pakistani fashion designer, public speaker, and philanthropist, is widely known for her outspoken religious views and activism. She has consistently taken a public stance against what she describes as the promotion of LGBTQ ideology, certain strands of feminism, and Zionism, arguing that these contradict Pakistan’s cultural and religious values.

Recently, Maria B strongly criticised the team behind the television drama Meri Zindagi Hai Tu, accusing them of subtly promoting an LGBTQ agenda through their content.

The controversy arose after Episode 19 of Meri Zindagi Hai Tu, in which a scene shows the main character Ayra sitting with her friend when three university fellows join them. According to Maria B, the scene depicted what appeared to be a group of girls, but included Dr Mehrub Moiz Awan, whom she identified as a transgender individual and described as a biological male before.

In a video message shared on social media, Maria B questioned the casting choice and the intention behind the scenes. She said that while she was initially confused, the Pakistani public quickly noticed what she described as a deliberate move by the drama’s team.

She alleged that the inclusion was a “clever move,” suggesting that the makers believed viewers would not recognise it. Maria B further questioned whether there was a shortage of female actors in Pakistan or whether the production team was unaware of the actor’s background when casting them in a scene portraying a girls’ gathering.

In her video, Maria B also referenced incidents from the United States, claiming that there have been cases where individuals allegedly posing as women committed crimes such as rape. She stated that, in her view, such developments should not be normalised in Pakistani media.

She went on to say that Pakistani society would not accept what she described as an imposed agenda and cited Islamic teachings, stating that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) had warned the Muslim Ummah about moral challenges. She emphasised that, as a Muslim society, Pakistan should remain vigilant against trends she believes contradict religious values.

Maria B also announced her intention to take legal action against the drama’s producers over the matter.

Following her statement, Maria B received significant support on social media, with many users praising her for speaking out. Veteran actress Shagufta Ejaz also publicly backed her stance, stating that such portrayals should come to an end.

Dr Taha Cheema, a public figure, also expressed support for Maria B’s stance. In his remarks, he said that, in his view, sections of the media are attempting to normalise LGBTQ identities by presenting same-sex relationships — men loving men and women loving women — as something ordinary and socially acceptable.

Dr Cheema urged people to raise their voices against what he described as this growing trend, arguing that such portrayals could negatively influence future generations. He emphasised the need for society to remain vigilant and actively challenge media narratives that, according to him, conflict with Pakistan’s religious and cultural values.

The incident has reignited debate over representation, creative freedom, and cultural boundaries in Pakistani media, highlighting the growing divide between progressive storytelling and conservative public sentiment.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)