Pakistani actress Alizeh Shah has spoken candidly about the dark side of the entertainment industry, opening up about harassment, bullying, and being unfairly sidelined in showbiz. In a series of Instagram stories, the 25-year-old star recounted painful experiences and called out exploitative behavior in the media and production circles.

Revisiting an incident from 2021’s Bridal Couture Week, Shah alleged that her onstage fall wasn’t accidental. She claimed singer Shazia Manzoor deliberately pulled her down during their walk on the ramp, even trying to trip her multiple times. Shah accused Manzoor of later mocking her with TikTok personality Jannat Mirza and television host Juggan Kazim.

“I was dragged to the floor deliberately,” Shah said, sharing video footage to support her claim. The incident, she believes, became a source of public ridicule and marked the beginning of her being blacklisted in the industry.

She also criticized directors who called her to meetings under the pretext of discussing roles but instead questioned her reputation without offering her any work. “If you don’t want to cast me, why call me to comment on my image?” she questioned.

Addressing a 2023 controversy, Shah denied claims that she assaulted a co-actor by throwing a cigarette. According to her, the actor physically assaulted her first by pushing and slapping her. “I was in shock,” she said, adding that her request to view CCTV footage of the incident was ignored.

Shah stressed the importance of consent on set, saying she has strict boundaries and expects others to respect them. “If it’s not part of the scene, don’t touch me. Ask for my permission first,” she stated. Her stand, she feels, has made her a target in an environment where such boundaries are often dismissed.

The actress also shed light on a widespread issue affecting many performers: delayed payments. She revealed that she has had to wait months for her dues and often had to follow up repeatedly just to get paid. “Sometimes it takes three to four months to get my cheque. I won’t work where I’m not respected,” she said.

Alizeh Shah, who rose to fame with roles in Superstar and Ehd-e-Wafa, remains a prominent yet polarizing figure in Pakistani entertainment. Her decision to speak out has sparked conversations about accountability, professionalism, and the need for safer, more respectful working environments for artists in the industry.