What Pakistan is really like - not what you think
Ever been to Pakistan? Or maybe just heard about the South Asian country?
What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the name?
The fifth most populous country in the world, with the second-largest Muslim population?
A conflict-prone country? Probably with some really regressive culture and limited freedom?
You could say the news covers some part of what Pakistan looks like but the true diversity and complexity of the country is never really covered in its entirety.
So what does Pakistan look like? A brief conversation with Forbes 30 under 30 award winner and Pakistani filmmaker and creative director Bushra Sultan gave some perspective.
“Pakistan is actually not that regressive,” she said.
“How we are represented in the mainstream media is not what Pakistan is. There are different segments of the society. Some are liberal, some are very liberal, some are conservative, so it’s a mix of all sorts of people,” she added.
Pakistan, home to over 240 million people boasts a rich history, vibrant cultures, and beautiful landscapes.
From the ancient city of Mohenjo-daro to the towering peaks of the Karakoram range, Pakistan’s heritage and geography are as diverse as its people. Yet, much of this is overshadowed by negative narratives in international media, which often focus on issues like terrorism or political instability.
Pakistan’s society is a blend of various ideologies and lifestyles. In urban centres like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, there are art scenes, modern businesses, and progressive educational institutions. These cities reflect a more liberal and dynamic side of the country. On the other hand, there are rural areas where traditional values hold strong.
Watch the full interview here:
