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Rubina Ashraf, one of Pakistan’s most respected television veterans, recently spoke about the importance of recognizing postpartum depression and supporting women through pregnancy and motherhood. Appearing on a morning television show, the actress shared her thoughts on the emotional and psychological challenges many women experience before and after childbirth, emphasizing that these struggles deserve greater awareness and compassion. Having spent decades in the entertainment industry as an actress, director, and producer, Rubina has earned widespread recognition for her memorable performances in dramas such as Pas-e-Aaina, Tapish, Kasak, Do Bol, Khuda Aur Muhabbat 3, and Iqtidar. She also received praise for directing the acclaimed drama serial Ruswai. Beyond her successful career, Rubina is a devoted mother of two, and her daughter, Nawal Tariq, has also established herself as an actress in Pakistan’s television industry. During the conversation, Rubina highlighted how discussions around postpartum depression were almost nonexistent in previous generations. She explained that society traditionally viewed childbirth as a routine responsibility for women, often overlooking the immense physical and emotional changes they experienced. According to Rubina, people now need to understand that pregnancy is far more than a physical process. She said that a woman undergoes significant transformations in her body, skin, hormones, and emotions, making the journey both physically demanding and mentally exhausting. While pregnancy is often associated with happiness and excitement, it can also bring anxiety, stress, and emotional vulnerability. She stressed that pregnancy-related anxiety and postpartum depression are genuine medical and psychological conditions rather than signs of weakness. Rubina noted that many women silently struggle because their emotional health is ignored or misunderstood. Without proper care and emotional support, these feelings can develop into severe depression, affecting both the mother and her family. The actress urged families to become more aware of these challenges and encouraged them to provide women with understanding instead of judgment. She explained that a pregnant woman should not be expected to manage every household responsibility while dealing with the physical and emotional demands of pregnancy. Instead, she needs kindness, patience, and reassurance from those around her. Rubina particularly emphasized the crucial role of husbands during this period. She said that a husband’s support should begin during pregnancy and continue after childbirth, as these months can be among the most difficult in a woman’s life. Emotional encouragement, practical help, and compassion can make a significant difference in a mother’s mental well-being and recovery. She added that expecting mothers often feel overwhelmed because they are trying to balance multiple responsibilities while their bodies and emotions are constantly changing. Without a supportive environment, these pressures can become unbearable. Rubina’s heartfelt remarks have resonated with many viewers, drawing attention to the importance of maternal mental health. As awareness of postpartum depression continues to grow, her message serves as a reminder that emotional well-being is just as important as physical health during pregnancy and after childbirth. By encouraging empathy, open conversations, and stronger family support, she hopes more women will receive the care they need during one of the most life-changing phases of their lives.

Pakistani television continued to captivate audiences this week with powerful storytelling and memorable performances. From emotional family conflicts to intense psychological drama and heartfelt romance, several actors elevated their characters with convincing portrayals that left a lasting impact. Here are 12 performers who stood out for their remarkable work on screen. Urwa Hocane as Beena in Aap Ki Izzat Urwa Hocane makes a strong impression as Beena, a woman struggling to find respect and love within her marriage. She presents a character who appears gentle and devoted on the surface but possesses quiet resilience and determination. Through subtle expressions and emotional depth, Urwa successfully portrays Beena’s inner conflict, hinting that the character has much more to reveal as the story progresses. Ahsan Khan as Tabish in Aap Ki Izzat Ahsan Khan delivers a layered performance as Tabish, a man caught between ambition, family expectations and complicated personal relationships. His contrasting behaviour towards the women in his life reflects the character’s emotional complexity. With controlled expressions and understated body language, Ahsan makes Tabish both intriguing and unpredictable, keeping viewers invested in his journey. Sajal Aly as Rabeeya in Zanjeerain Sajal Aly once again demonstrates why she remains one of Pakistan’s finest performers. As Rabeeya, she commands every scene with confidence, intelligence and emotional strength. Whether protecting loved ones or confronting those around her, Sajal balances intensity with restraint, creating a character who naturally becomes the emotional backbone of the drama. Anaayah Shahid as Shirin in Zanjeerain Anaayah Shahid continues to impress with a performance filled with expressive body language and convincing emotional shifts. Shirin’s confidence gradually gives way to uncertainty as events unfold, and Anaayah captures these changes with remarkable ease. Her ability to communicate fear, suspicion and vulnerability without excessive dialogue makes her performance particularly engaging. Shuja Asad as Salman in Doctor Bahu Shuja Asad delivers a compelling portrayal of Salman, a deeply flawed character whose unpredictable behaviour drives much of the drama. One moment he appears caring and affectionate, while the next he becomes manipulative and emotionally distant. Shuja convincingly presents these conflicting traits, making Salman frustratingly realistic and emotionally complex. Kubra Khan as Saniya in Doctor Bahu Kubra Khan brings authenticity and emotional depth to Saniya, a woman facing emotional hardship within her marriage. She beautifully portrays the gradual erosion of confidence and hope while maintaining the character’s quiet strength. Kubra’s heartfelt performance allows viewers to empathise with Saniya’s pain and understand the emotional challenges faced by many women in similar situations. Zoya Nasir as Shehreen in Bas Tera Saath Ho Zoya Nasir shines as Shehreen, portraying a character whose obsession, impulsiveness and emotional vulnerability create constant tension. Rather than presenting a one-dimensional antagonist, she adds humanity and complexity to the role. Her confident screen presence and natural performance ensure that Shehreen remains one of the drama’s most compelling personalities. Maya Ali as Khushbakht in Aik Mohabbat Aur Maya Ali delivers a graceful and emotionally balanced performance as Khushbakht. She effectively conveys the uncertainty, fear and hope surrounding her character’s important life decisions. Through subtle facial expressions and composed dialogue delivery, Maya captures Khushbakht’s emotional struggles while maintaining the quiet dignity that defines the character. Ahad Raza Mir as Haroon in Aik Mohabbat Aur Ahad Raza Mir brings warmth, humour and sincerity to Haroon, creating a refreshing male lead who is supportive, understanding and emotionally mature. His natural chemistry with Maya Ali enhances the drama, while his ability to shift between light-hearted moments and emotional scenes makes Haroon both relatable and memorable. Ali Raza as Mansoor in Leader Ali Raza continues to impress with his portrayal of Mansoor, a character balancing romance, ambition and political challenges. His expressive eyes, composed dialogue delivery and charismatic screen presence give the role remarkable depth. Whether displaying determination, affection or strategic thinking, Ali maintains complete control over the character’s evolving emotional journey. Saif Ali Khan as Behraam in Aap Ki Izzat Although his appearance is brief, Saif Ali Khan leaves a noticeable impression as Behraam. His calm presence, understated performance and effortless screen charisma immediately spark curiosity about the character’s future role in the story. Even with limited screen time, he successfully establishes Behraam as someone audiences will want to watch closely. Marina Khan as Zainab in Doctor Bahu Veteran actress Marina Khan delivers one of the week’s most emotionally moving performances as Zainab. She portrays a woman burdened by unresolved pain and emotional scars, gradually allowing vulnerability and compassion to replace bitterness. Marina’s nuanced acting highlights the long-term impact of generational trauma while offering a hopeful message about healing, forgiveness and personal growth. A memorable week for Pakistani television This week’s episodes showcased the exceptional talent present across Pakistan’s television industry. Whether portraying resilient women, emotionally conflicted men or complex family relationships, these actors brought authenticity, depth and emotional honesty to their roles. Their performances not only strengthened their respective dramas but also reminded viewers why compelling acting remains the foundation of unforgettable storytelling.