Pakistani actress Dur-e-Fishan Saleem has shared her perspective on love, relationships, and women’s self-worth, emphasizing that no woman should have to lose her identity or silence her feelings to maintain a romantic relationship.
In a recent interview with Khaleej Times, the actress discussed emotional vulnerability, heartbreak, and the expectations society places on women in relationships. She also reflected on her character Zaryab in the drama serial Dar-e-Nijaat and the emotional challenges surrounding her romantic journey.
Dur-e-Fishan explained that one of the most interesting aspects of portraying Zaryab was exploring the emotional impact of heartbreak. She highlighted how women can sometimes begin questioning their own worth and blaming themselves after being hurt by someone they genuinely love.
According to the actress, such experiences can affect how individuals view themselves and their relationships. However, she believes that emotional pain should not force anyone to abandon their identity or personal values.
She also made an important distinction between compromise and losing oneself in a relationship. While adjusting expectations is sometimes necessary for two people to build a healthy partnership, abandoning personal beliefs and individuality should never become a requirement for love.
The actress believes that a meaningful relationship should provide opportunities for both partners to grow. Instead of demanding that someone change their personality to meet expectations, love should create an environment where individuals feel accepted and respected.
Discussing the expectations of independent women, Dur-e-Fishan explained that they do not necessarily need a partner to complete their lives. Rather, they want someone with whom they can share the life they have already created.
She also pointed out that women who appear strong and independent still need affection, reassurance, tenderness, and emotional support. Being self-reliant does not mean someone has to hide their vulnerable side or manage every challenge alone.
The actress also addressed the mixed reactions viewers have shared about Zaryab’s decisions in Dar-e-Nijaat. She welcomed different interpretations of the character but maintained that one person’s understanding should not automatically become the only acceptable perspective.
Dur-e-Fishan further clarified that portraying a complicated or flawed character does not mean supporting every decision that character makes. According to her, storytelling should allow audiences to explore different emotions, personalities, and situations.
She also defended Abu Bakr’s gentle personality, suggesting that kindness, patience, and emotional maturity should not be considered unrealistic qualities in a romantic partner.
Beyond her discussion about relationships and television roles, the actress spoke about her professional ambitions and future plans following her association with Lux.
Rather than viewing the recognition as a final career achievement, she wants to continue challenging herself with demanding characters and meaningful projects. She also expressed interest in exploring cinema and other entertainment formats.
Dur-e-Fishan highlighted some of the challenges facing Pakistan’s television industry, particularly the limited creative freedom available to producers. She pointed to channel ownership structures and the decline of independent producers as factors that can restrict experimentation and fresh storytelling.
Despite these challenges, the actress remains focused on building a sustainable career rather than constantly chasing major achievements or temporary popularity.
Her comments offer insight into both her approach to acting and her personal understanding of relationships. Through her reflections, Dur-e-Fishan has emphasized that love should bring emotional security, mutual respect, and personal growth without requiring anyone to sacrifice their self-worth.