Actress Shafaq Naaz has strongly reacted to online criticism after sharing pictures of her Karwa Chauth celebrations. Many social media users questioned her religious identity, given her Muslim faith, for observing the Hindu festival.
Naaz, known for roles in ‘Mahabharat’ and ‘Chidiya Ghar’, expressed her disappointment over the ‘abuse and disrespect’ she received. She clarified that her husband, Zeeshan, is Muslim, and applying sindoor or celebrating a festival does not change her religion. “Is my religion so halka (flimsy)?” she questioned, highlighting the absurdity of such assumptions.
She emphasized India’s rich cultural diversity, stating that celebrating different festivals is a beautiful aspect of the country. Naaz also condemned the personal attacks directed at her husband, stressing that religion is a deeply personal matter and a question of individual belief.
“It is written everywhere, including in the Quran, that you gain nothing by disrespecting other people’s religion,” she stated, advocating for mutual respect. Naaz affirmed that she would continue to live by her beliefs and celebrate festivals like Eid, Diwali, and Holi, regardless of online criticism. She advised those uncomfortable with her choices to simply unfollow her, reiterating her commitment to respecting all cultures.