We don’t take it off for you, it is my choice: Zaira Wasim on eating wearing niqab

Mumbai: Renowned former actress Zaira Wasim, known for her roles in popular films such as 'Dangal' and 'The Sky Is Pink,' recently took to Twitter to share her perspective on the freedom to eat while wearing a niqab, a full-face veil worn by some Muslim women.

Responding to a user's tweet featuring a picture of a woman eating with one hand while holding her niqab with the other, Zaira expressed her staunch belief in individual choice.

The user had captioned the image with the question, "Is this a choice of a human being?" To this query, Zaira responded with clarity and conviction, stating, "Just attended a wedding. Ate exactly like this. Purely my choice. Even when everyone around me kept nagging me to take the niqab off. I didn't. We don't do it for you. Deal with it."

Zaira, a Kashmiri-born actor who won a National Award for her outstanding performance in the Aamir Khan-starrer 'Dangal,' had earlier announced her decision to disassociate herself from the acting profession. She cited her dissatisfaction with the industry, as it conflicted with her religious beliefs, as the reason behind her departure.

Zaira's bold stance on her personal choice to retain her niqab while eating serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting individual decisions and cultural practices. Her statement encourages others to acknowledge and honour diverse perspectives, even if they may differ from their own. With her powerful message, Zaira continues to inspire discussions surrounding personal freedom and religious expression in today's society.