In a candid appearance on the FHM Pakistan podcast, actress Maria Wasti voiced strong opinions on women’s rights and the state of education in Pakistan. Maria, known for her outspoken nature, expressed frustration over the lack of autonomy many women have over their bodies and health, stating, “So many women have no say over when they have a child or anything to do with their own health.” She emphasized the harmful effects of avoiding important discussions on such topics, calling it a violation of people’s rights.
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Maria further criticized the education system, saying it discourages children from asking questions, which leads to blind obedience and hinders social progress. “We are never taught to communicate properly,” she pointed out. “We are taught to behave like machines, and I think we are 1500 to 2000 years behind where we should be socially.”
Addressing the issue of women’s ignorance about their rights, both legally and religiously, Maria condemned the lack of effort to learn about one’s own rights, referring to the ‘mera jism meri marzi’ movement. She urged people to embrace knowledge and challenge the prevailing apathy and patriarchy that perpetuate ignorance.
Maria concluded with a call to action, stressing that only through gaining knowledge and taking agency can individuals change their circumstances. “If you have a thirst for knowledge, you’ll know. But if not, then you won’t.”
