Veteran Pakistani actress Hina Khawaja Bayat recently appeared on Dunya News’ popular comedy talk show Mazaaq Raat, where she opened up about her personal life, professional journey, and how society has changed over the years. Her heartfelt reflections offered a mix of wisdom, nostalgia, and subtle criticism on how technology and social behavior have evolved—often at the cost of relationships and values.
Acting Career That Began by Chance
During the conversation, Hina revealed that she never initially considered a career in acting. While she was still a college student, she received offers to appear in commercials. However, her father was strongly opposed to the idea, and she respectfully abided by his wishes at the time.
Her entry into the acting world happened unexpectedly. It was legendary media figure Sultana Siddiqui who played a pivotal role in her transition to television. At Siddiqui’s insistence, Hina agreed to act in a drama, and what began as a one-time appearance soon turned into a long and successful career in Pakistan’s television industry.
Social Media and the Culture of Personal Attacks
Speaking about the modern digital age, Hina Khawaja Bayat expressed concern over how social media platforms are used to target individuals on a personal level. She emphasized that actors, like everyone else, are human beings with feelings and emotions.
“Criticism is acceptable if it’s related to our work,” she said, “but when people start attacking our personal lives and families, it crosses a line.”
She highlighted that public figures often face harsh and unfair judgment online, and while they may appear composed, negative comments can still leave a lasting impact—even if only momentarily. Her advice was clear: if someone dislikes an actor’s performance, they should critique the work, not the person behind it.
The Mobile Phone Generation: Connected but Disconnected
Hina also touched upon the growing dependency on mobile phones and how it has affected interpersonal relationships. She observed how people, despite being physically present with each other, are often emotionally absent—lost in their screens.
“It’s sad to see four people sitting together, not speaking, just texting each other while being in the same room,” she remarked.
She acknowledged that while mobile phones are a necessity in today’s world, letting them control our lives turns them into a “disease.” Her suggestion was to use technology wisely and not at the expense of real human connection.
The Disappearing Culture of Hospitality
Reminiscing about the past, Hina Khawaja Bayat reflected on how family dynamics and values have changed over time. She spoke fondly of an era when guests were considered a blessing and were welcomed with genuine warmth and love.
“In my home,” she shared, “we always had a welcoming atmosphere. Guests would come and stay, and we were genuinely happy to have them.”
However, she lamented that such traditions are fading fast. Nowadays, she noted, families often view guests as an inconvenience. The arrival of visitors is met with concerns about disrupting the children’s studies or breaking the family’s routine, rather than joy or hospitality.
A Call to Reconnect with Our Roots
Hina Khawaja Bayat’s appearance on Mazaaq Raat was more than just an entertaining segment—it was a heartfelt reminder of values we may be losing in the rush of modern life. From the way we criticize public figures to how we interact with loved ones, and even how we treat guests in our homes, her reflections serve as a wake-up call.
She encouraged the audience and viewers to embrace compassion, sensitivity, and the spirit of community once again. Her message was simple yet powerful: relationships matter more than routines, and emotional presence is just as important as physical presence.
As a respected figure in the entertainment industry and a voice of reason in times of digital chaos, Hina Khawaja Bayat’s words resonated deeply with many—making her Mazaaq Raat appearance a thought-provoking and memorable one.
