Hijab Khalil, daughter of well-known Pakistani playwright and screenwriter Khalil-ur-Rehman Qamar, has finally spoken out about the heavy online criticism she faces because of her fashion choices. In a recent viral interview, Hijab addressed the double standards and trolling she receives due to her father’s bold public comments on actresses’ clothing.
Hijab is a popular digital creator on TikTok and Instagram. She is known for her energetic lip-sync and dance videos. Her modern Gen-Z style has won her many fans. She also received an appreciation award from the Governor of Punjab at the Nexus by Maxum event for her positive contribution as a digital influencer.
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The criticism against Hijab usually starts after her father makes controversial remarks. Khalil-ur-Rehman Qamar has had public disputes with actresses like Saba Qamar, Mahira Khan, and others over their dressing at events. When these comments go viral, people quickly turn to Hijab and question her own modern outfits. He mentioned Saba Qamar’s dressing choice at an award show as an attire that went against his values and beliefs.
In the interview, Hijab said: “My father commented on an actress’s clothing. I dress in Gen-Z style but not vulgar. Still, social media came after me.” She expressed surprise that she gets dragged into debates she has nothing to do with. She firmly stated that her choices are her own and people should not judge her family or upbringing.
When such remarks surfaced online, social media users quickly turned their attention to Hijab Khalil herself, questioning how a man who criticised actresses for their clothing could have a daughter with a modern, Gen-Z fashion sense.
Hijab also responded to comments by Ghazal Saleem about her father’s abduction and mentioned receiving death threats. She made it clear that issues with her father should be taken directly to him, as he is a public figure. She added that her father taught her to ignore criticism, but there is a limit. She also pushed back against those who questioned her upbringing and parents, stating that her choices are her own and that targeting her family is unfair and unjust.
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This situation shines a light on a painful and familiar problem in Pakistan’s digital culture, the habit of targeting the families of controversial public figures. Former actress Mishi Khan had previously come forward in defence of Hijab, urging the public not to criticise her or the family, stating that Khalil ur Rehman Qamar’s family, especially his daughter, has no connection with the incidents that have occurred or may occur in the future.
Many social media users have also supported Hijab, reminding others that she is only accountable for her own actions, not her father’s, and should not be subjected to unnecessary mistreatment.
