Raise girls to be independent so they can navigate life on their own: Ahsan Khan

‘Udaari’ actor insists women empowerment is not a Western concept

Actor and television host Ahsan Khan spoke about the importance of raising daughters with strength and independence. In an interview with FUCHSIA Magazine, Khan shared his perspective as a father and reflected on the different challenges that sons and daughters face while growing up, especially in Pakistan’s cultural context.

He began by observing that “many people don’t invest in their women to help them grow.” Khan advised, “Raise girls to be independent so they can navigate life on their own.”

However, the Udaari actor was quick to clarify: “This doesn’t mean she should abandon her values, culture, or religion. A woman who is aware will live her life more sensibly.”

Khan maintained that women should be made self-reliant not only for personal development, but also to deal with life’s difficulties. “I have seen a lot of women suffer when they don’t have a man in their lives,” he reasoned. “When someone leaves them or passes away, they don’t even know how to live.”

He emphasised that daughters should be taught emotional resilience as well as practical knowledge. “Independence makes you stronger,” he said, urging parents to raise women who can carry on with dignity even in the absence of a man.

Anticipating potential criticism, Khan was clear in stating that his views are not based on modern or “Western” ideals. “I’m not talking about modernity,” he said, before referring to examples from Islamic history to back his position.

Citing Hazrat Khadija (RA), the first wife of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Khan said, “The very first person who significantly supported our religion was Hazrat Khadija, through her wealth and herself. She was an independent woman.”

“She knew what she was doing. She recognised the Prophet (PBUH), understood him, and made life easier for him,” he added.

He reiterated, “I’m not talking about some modern, Western idea. I’m talking about something deeply religious — that women need to be independent.”