Pakistani actress Sahar Hashmi, known for her roles in television dramas and films, has recently found herself at the center of a social media controversy following a scene from her drama “Mann Mast Malang”. The incident has triggered online trolling, with users comparing her to Bollywood actor Emraan Hashmi, a label that has quickly gone viral.

What Triggered the Controversy?

The controversy stems from a romantic scene in the drama, where Sahar Hashmi shares an intimate moment on screen with co-star Danish Taimoor. The scene, which aired on Geo Entertainment, was widely circulated on social media and sparked strong reactions from viewers.

While the drama itself premiered in February 2025 and airs twice weekly, it was this particular sequence that brought renewed attention and criticism.

Why the “Emraan Hashmi” Comparison?

Social media users began trolling Sahar Hashmi by calling her “Pakistan’s Emraan Hashmi,” referencing Bollywood actor Emraan Hashmi, who is known for appearing in bold romantic roles early in his career.

Many users used the comparison in a sarcastic or critical tone, linking it to the perceived boldness of the on-screen scene. Comments and posts mocking the actress quickly spread online, making the phrase trend in discussions about the show.

Some users wrote that she had “become Pakistan’s Emraan Hashmi,” while others criticized her acting or questioned the need for such scenes.

Mixed Reactions on Social Media

Reactions on social media have been divided:

• Some users criticized the scene and trolled the actress

• Others defended her performance as part of acting and storytelling

• A section of viewers argued that romantic scenes are normal in modern dramas

The debate highlights the ongoing sensitivity around on-screen intimacy in South Asian entertainment industries.

Aiman Saleem Comes Out in Support

Amid the backlash, actress Aiman Saleem publicly supported Sahar Hashmi. She pointed out the double standards faced by female actors in the industry.

In her statement, Aiman noted that women are often labeled harshly for performing roles, while men doing similar work are simply referred to as “actors.” Her comment has added another dimension to the discussion around gender bias in entertainment criticism.

The Bigger Debate

The controversy has now moved beyond a single scene and turned into a broader conversation about:

• On-screen representation in Pakistani dramas

• Audience sensitivity toward romantic content

• Gender-based labeling in entertainment

• Social media trolling culture

While the drama continues to air, the incident has sparked a wider debate on how actors are judged for their on-screen performances versus their real-life image.