In a powerful and emotional interview, Pakistani actor Ahmed Rafiq bravely shared his experience of facing sexual harassment during the early days of his acting journey. Speaking openly for the first time, the young actor revealed how this painful incident left a lasting impact on his life and career.
Ahmed Rafiq Reveals His Harassment Experience
While attending a program alongside his co-star Hina Tariq, Ahmed Rafiq shared the heartbreaking story of being harassed on a large set when he was just 19 years old. He recalled how the incident left him traumatized to the point that he felt numb and deaf for two days.
Ahmed explained that during the early phase of his career, he was excited and hopeful about his future in the entertainment industry. However, the harassment he faced shattered his trust and left him confused, scared, and uncertain about how to react.
Shock and Silence After the Incident
The actor spoke about the deep emotional toll the incident took on him. Ahmed said that he remained in a state of complete shock for two days after the harassment. “I didn’t know what to do, who to talk to, or how to respond,” he shared. His silence during this difficult time reflected the fear many newcomers feel when confronted by the darker sides of the industry.
Ahmed’s heartfelt revelation shed light on a rarely discussed reality: that harassment does not only affect women but also young men who often suffer in silence.
Highlighting the Struggles Faced by New Artists
During the interview, Ahmed pointed out an important and sensitive issue — the exploitation of new artists by powerful figures in the showbiz world. He emphasized that when fresh talent enters the industry, they often become vulnerable targets for those who misuse their authority.
He also noted the harsh truth that if an artist dares to speak up against influential people, it can cost them their career. “There are people who can destroy a newcomer’s future if they stand against them,” Ahmed said. This fear of retaliation forces many victims to choose between their dignity and their dreams.
A New Understanding of Women’s Experiences
Ahmed Rafiq shared that this personal tragedy gave him a deeper understanding of what women go through when they face harassment. “When it happened to me, I realized how powerless and broken a person feels. It made me respect the courage of women who speak out even more,” he said.
His comments highlighted the need for empathy and support for all victims, regardless of gender, and stressed that harassment is a problem that affects the entire industry, not just one group.
Hina Tariq Supports Raising a Strong Voice
Hina Tariq, who sat alongside Ahmed during the conversation, expressed her strong support for victims who choose to speak out. She said that new artists should have enough confidence to immediately and strongly respond to any inappropriate behavior.
Hina emphasized that silence only emboldens wrongdoers, and quick, bold action can discourage harassment. She urged industry seniors to create safer environments for newcomers and empower young artists to stand up for their rights without fear of career damage.
A Call for Change in the Industry
Ahmed Rafiq’s brave confession has once again opened up discussions about the need for better protections for young actors and actresses entering the industry. His story serves as a reminder that harassment is a real issue that many still face behind the glamor of showbiz.
It also highlights the urgent need for the entertainment industry to create safer workspaces, set clear rules against harassment, and build systems where victims can report incidents without fear of losing their dreams.
Both Ahmed Rafiq and Hina Tariq’s conversation was a powerful reminder that the culture of silence needs to end. Speaking up and supporting victims — whether male or female — is the only way to create a respectful and safe industry for everyone.
