Filmmaker Imtiaz Ali has sparked discussion with his recent comments on the burqa and parda, saying he finds it troubling when women claim they feel comfortable wearing them. Speaking during a podcast conversation, the director shared his views on patriarchy, social conditioning, and the growing lack of moderation in public discourse.
Imtiaz said he believes society has regressed when women feel completely comfortable with practices that, in his view, are linked to restrictions on personal freedom. According to him, such comfort may sometimes be the result of years of social conditioning rather than a completely independent choice.
The filmmaker stated that when someone says they are comfortable living behind a parda or wearing a burqa because society expects it, it raises questions about how deeply certain beliefs have become ingrained. He remarked that people may become so accustomed to a system that they stop questioning whether it limits them.
At the same time, Imtiaz clarified that he is not advocating forcing people to change their choices or interfering in anyone’s personal life. He stressed that his comments were not about telling others how to live but about encouraging discussion and self-reflection.
The director also expressed concern about what he sees as increasing polarization in society. According to him, meaningful conversations have become more difficult because people often move towards extreme positions instead of engaging in dialogue. He emphasized the importance of tolerance and moderation, saying that disagreement should not automatically make someone an enemy.
Imtiaz noted that society needs spaces where different viewpoints can be discussed respectfully without hostility. He believes that the disappearance of moderate voices has made public conversations more divisive than before.
The comments have generated mixed reactions online, with some people agreeing with his concerns about social conditioning and gender roles, while others argue that clothing choices should remain a matter of personal freedom and individual preference.
On the professional front, Imtiaz Ali is currently receiving praise for his latest film, Main Vaapas Aaunga. The Partition-era romantic drama stars Diljit Dosanjh, Naseeruddin Shah, Vedang Raina, and Sharvari in key roles. The film has been appreciated for its emotional storytelling, powerful performances, and sensitive portrayal of love and loss across generations.
Although the film opened modestly at the box office, positive word of mouth has helped it gain momentum among audiences. Critics have particularly praised its emotional depth and the performances delivered by the ensemble cast, making it one of the most talked-about films of the year.
