Naeema Butt, best known for her powerful portrayal of Rubab in the hit drama Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum, recently addressed the widespread issue of colorism in Pakistan’s entertainment industry.
In an honest podcast interview, Butt opened up about her personal experiences, shedding light on the societal pressures that push many actors to conform to unrealistic beauty ideals. With a career spanning theatre, film, and television, Butt’s journey has been driven by a commitment to telling authentic stories. Her current role in Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum has earned her significant praise for her exceptional talent.
Throughout the podcast, Butt discussed her passion for the arts and her diverse career, splitting her time between Pakistan and New York City. She stressed the importance of choosing roles that align with her values and contribute to a meaningful legacy.
However, the conversation took a serious turn when Butt shared a troubling piece of advice she received early in her career. A fellow actor once told her to lighten her skin with foundation, claiming that “only fair-skinned actresses get lead roles” in Pakistani dramas.
This revelation left Butt stunned, as she was shown images of actresses who had resorted to covering their entire bodies with makeup to appear lighter. Rejecting these harmful practices, Butt declared, “I am comfortable in my own skin and will not conform to such standards.” Her bold stance against colorism highlights a critical issue within the industry, sparking a wider conversation about beauty standards and representation in Pakistani media.
