In a rare and deeply candid interview, legendary Pakistani actress Sania Saeed has broken her long-standing silence about her personal life—particularly her divorce from director Shahid Shafaat, with whom she shared a 35-year-long companionship. Known for her powerful screen presence and dignified off-screen demeanor, Sania has always kept her private affairs away from public scrutiny. However, during a recent appearance on a podcast, the seasoned actress surprised fans by shedding light on the human story behind her years of success and resilience.
A Relationship That Began in Friendship
Opening up for the first time in such detail, Sania shared that her bond with Shahid Shafaat began long before fame entered the picture. We were friends first, Bachpan ke dost thay (we were childhood friends). We practically grew up together,she revealed with a nostalgic smile. Their long-standing relationship eventually turned into marriage, though the couple made a conscious choice to never make their personal lives a public spectacle.
What truly struck a chord with listeners was Sania’s tone—not bitter, not regretful, but reflective and mature. We have been together for 35 years, and those years were meaningful. Even our separation was respectful, mutual, and without any drama. That in itself is a blessing,she said.
The Courage to Walk Away With Dignity
Perhaps the most powerful moment in the interview came when Sania talked about the compromises women are often expected to make in marriage—especially in South Asian societies. In our culture, women are told they must let go of their dreams or their dignity to make a marriage work. But I couldn’t do that. I chose my self-respect. And I don’t regret it,she said firmly.
She explained that although her marriage did not involve any abusive behavior or overt toxicity, there came a point when she realized that they had grown apart in ways that were no longer reconcilable. There was no fight, no scandal. Just two people who understood that their journeys were meant to diverge.
Her words resonated deeply with many, especially women who often find themselves trapped in emotionally exhausting relationships but fear judgment or isolation if they choose to leave.
“We Had No Children—That Was Our Choice”
Sania also touched upon another aspect of her personal life that’s often considered taboo in conservative societies: the decision to not have children. We didn’t have children, and that was our mutual choice. I never felt less of a woman because of it. Parenthood is a responsibility, not a checkbox to tick just because society expects it,she stated.
This bold admission challenges long-standing societal pressures that measure a woman’s worth by her marital status and motherhood, and adds to Sania’s legacy as a thought leader as much as an artist.
Her Views on Fashion and Simplicity in the Industry
The podcast conversation also touched on lighter topics, including Sania’s famously minimalistic sense of style. While many of her peers in the industry lean heavily into fashion-forward appearances, Sania has always stood out for her simple, elegant look—often seen wearing her mother’s vintage sarees even at red carpet events.
I never cared much for fashion trends, she laughed. I would wear my old clothes or my mother’s sarees even at award functions. To me, fashion was always about comfort and identity, not impressing others.
She also reminisced about the early days of television drama in Pakistan, pointing out how natural and grounded the actresses looked back then. We didn’t have stylists or glam teams. We were just ourselves, and that authenticity connected with the audience.
A Role Model for Strength and Integrity
In a media world obsessed with glitz, scandal, and tabloid headlines, Sania Saeed stands out as an embodiment of grace, strength, and authenticity. Whether it’s her powerful performances on screen or her quiet wisdom off it, she continues to inspire millions—especially women who are navigating the difficult choices life throws their way.
Sania’s interview is more than just a celebrity talking about her divorce. It’s a reminder that dignity, honesty, and self-respect are non-negotiable, even in matters of the heart. Her ability to part ways from a 35-year relationship with maturity and mutual respect is not just admirable—it’s revolutionary in its own right.
