Images

Actor Mirza Gohar Rasheed addresses 'the slap scene' in his drama Laapata

Actor Mirza Gohar Rasheed addresses 'the slap scene' in his drama Laapata

The actor condemned physical abuse and spoke about why he took the role of Daniyal in the drama.
10 Sep, 2021

Actor Mirza Gohar Rasheed shared his thoughts on a scene from his drama Laapata that has gone viral on social media. The scene in question involves him getting slapped by actor Sarah Khan after hitting her.

Drama serial Laapata is currently airing on Hum TV and stars Rasheed, Sarah Khan, Ayeza Khan and Ali Rehman Khan. In the drama's latest episode, Rasheed's character Daniyal is on the receiving end of a slap from Falak (played by Sarah) after he slaps her.

Rasheed posted a video of the scene alongside a message on Instagram. "I hate the display of physical abuse on television," he wrote. "This is why I have always refrained from doing it in at least my own characters. It’s unfortunate but it has been done so frequently on our television that it’s almost become a subconscious reality for us. Apparently, physically abusing women is “fine” and any misogynistic, spineless man can get away with it, just like Daniyal thought in yesterday’s episode of Laapata.

"It may sound strange but the slap scene was the only reason as to why I took up the character of Daniyal, to prove that oppression is a choice," he continued. "If any insecure man with his fragile ego tries his 'so called' muscles on you, make the choice that Falak did, without any fear! One tight slap back from a brave woman to such a weak man in our society would be a giant leap for women kind. We need such examples to be made by such women of strength, to empower women for their own safety, their well being [and] self respect. A scene [like this] that is so powerful, I hope that it’s effect is even more impactful on our women."

The slap has stirred up controversy on social media. While the scene has garnered many, many supporters who are cheering for a woman standing up for herself — a feat that is rarely seen on Pakistani television — it has also gained critics who believe violence in any form should not be condoned.

This isn't the first time a scene from Laapata has caught everyone's attention on the internet. Ayeza became the subject of backlash and controversy when her character falsely accused a shopkeeper of harassment in the same drama.

While we appreciate the intention behind scene — to empower women to stand against abuse — we do not condone violence in any shape or form. Just like the infamous false harassment scene, we wish the drama had tackled this issue in a slightly different way.

Comments

Hasaan Sep 11, 2021 12:20am
Big cover up for this scene. Totally disagree with his approach
Recommend
Tea Day Sep 11, 2021 01:54am
This Girl, Sara simply can't act!! Can someone please give her acting lessons.
Recommend
Ajay Sep 11, 2021 05:11am
I am glad someone thought of this in subcontinent This is so common on our television that as if this is part of culture to yell and abuse along with Lapatta
Recommend
Tariq Sep 11, 2021 09:21am
We already have a lot violence in society and i strongly condemn to promote such things. This is not going to end good practical world, instead the man who does so must be treated as a bad character man , he should be ashamed to face his friends and family. Unfortunately it’s opposite if a man does it( I don’t want to use the word slap or violence as I don’t like it) he is applauded as a real man. It’s difficult to boycott someone in our family or friends with such a character but we must do it. There must be social pressure.
Recommend
Tariq Suhail Sep 11, 2021 10:42am
Seems go me a copy of english movies like showing gun in holester, killing, jealous etc.
Recommend
Anila Sep 14, 2021 04:10pm
@Tea Day That's her style I infact like her acting No extra lines on forehead to show emotion s is perfectly fine Few people do exist like her in this world who barely show any emotions expression.
Recommend