Actor Saba Faisal has sparked controversy for disagreeing with mothers-in-law allowing brides to independently choose and shop for their wedding outfits.
“In the past, newly married women wore outfits selected by their in-laws and I also followed the same tradition,” she said while appearing on a morning show.
“One of the biggest mistakes some mothers of grooms make today is giving brides complete freedom to design and select their wedding wardrobes from the very beginning,” she said.
“Handing over all such decisions to the bride at the start is not a good approach,” the veteran actor said.
Acknowledging that brides should feel comfortable in what they wear, Faisal said that issues arise when a bride continues to only wear the outfits she selected by herself, adding that it can affect balance in a new household.
Her comments drew sharp criticism from fellow celebrities and social media users.
Actor Fiza Ali responded in an Instagram story, saying a truly peaceful home is one where the daughter-in-law feels respected and at ease, not merely silent or submissive.
“A woman wanting to wear clothes according to her own preference should not be seen as disrespectful but as natural desire,” Fiza said, emphasising that while a mother-in-law’s opinion matters, taking away a daughter-in-law’s right to make decisions is not love but control.
Highlighting a common social issue, she pointed out that a woman’s happiness is often prioritised when she is a daughter, but once she becomes a daughter-in-law, she is expected to suppress her wishes and remain quiet.
Actor Javeria Saud posted a story stating, “Sirf susral nahin, har jagah par ankh, kan zuban sab khuley chor dein to zindagi sukoon se guzrey gi [You will lead a peaceful life if you keep eyes, ears and mouth open not just at your in-laws’ place but everywhere].”
Actor Hira Khan wrote on her Instagram story that, “Why she is allowed to speak on national television, I will never know. I feel sorry for her bahu [daughter-in-law].”
Social media users also criticised Faisal’s views.
One user asked, “Mil jul ker kr lain yar, kea masla ha [do it together, what’s the problem]?”
Another user commented, “Why is she spreading negativity?”
“It’s the bride’s big day! Let her decide [for] herself!” wrote another.
One user said, “Her views are so problematic.”