KARACHI: In the wake of actress Humaira Asghar Ali’s tragic passing, Pakistani actresses have launched a private WhatsApp group. This initiative aims to foster mental health and well-being within the showbiz industry, creating a vital support network for those particularly actresses living away from their families, who might face isolation.
Actress Tuba Anwar revealed in a recent digital media interview that several colleagues united to create this dedicated group. The primary goal is to ensure regular check-ins and provide mutual support, actively working to prevent feelings of loneliness among industry peers. Tuba emphasized that Humaira Asghar Ali’s death underscored the critical need for such a support system especially for actresses working far from home.
Tuba explained the group’s purpose: “Actresses will not only share their thoughts but also try to support each other so no one feels isolated.” She added that many of her friends, who also work away from their hometowns, were profoundly affected by Humaira’s demise. This proactive step aims to foster a stronger sense of community and care within the often demanding showbiz environment.
The initiative follows the heartbreaking discovery of Humaira Asghar Ali’s decomposed body in her Defence Phase 6 flat in Karachi. She had resided alone in the rented apartment for seven years, having moved from Lahore in 2018. Her remains were found on July 8 when a court bailiff arrived to vacate the flat due to unpaid rent, only to discover her body after breaking open the door.
Tuba Anwar stated, “Some actresses have come together to form this group with the aim of regularly staying in touch and checking on each other’s mental health.” She further emphasized, “Humaira’s death has drawn attention to the importance of mental health and mutual support in the industry.” An investigator also noted, “There were rusted jars, dry pipes, and no signs of electricity or candles in her flat. One neighbor returned to the vacant apartment on the same floor in February but by then the smell had faded because the balcony door had been left open.”
Initially, Karachi Police Surgeon Dr. Summaiya Syed estimated Humaira had been deceased for at least a month due to the advanced decomposition. However, investigators now believe her passing occurred in October 2024. Deputy Inspector General Syed Asad Raza confirmed Humaira’s last phone activity was a call made in October 2024, after which her device remained inactive. Her last social media updates were also recorded in September 2024. Investigations further revealed her apartment’s electricity was disconnected since last October due to unpaid bills, with dry water pipes and expired food present, indicating a prolonged period without activity.
The creation of this WhatsApp support group highlights a critical industry-wide recognition of the mental health challenges faced by artists living independently. Humaira Asghar Ali’s tragic death serves as a stark reminder of the essential need for robust social support networks. This collective effort by actresses marks a positive stride towards fostering a more caring and connected environment within the Pakistani showbiz community, aiming to prevent similar isolated tragedies in the future.
