KARACHI: Despite decision to withdraw ban on Holy by HEC, actress Anoushey Ashraf comes hard on the decision. On her Instagram stories she shared her disappointed.

The ban came after videos from Quaid-e-Azam University's Holi celebration went viral, sparking controversy and debate on social media.

Ashraf in her Instagram note lamented the lack of tolerance, celebration of all faiths, progress, and acceptance in Pakistan. She further questioned why the authorities were focusing on banning cultural celebrations instead of addressing the quality of education being imparted to students.

Distancing herself from those in power, she wrote, "So done with the people running the system, I wouldn't want to be counted amongst them. I don't identify as them, and I truly have zero respect for them. Unfortunately, Pakistan's their playground now." She added that the country is a far cry from the vision of Pakistan's founder, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

"The disappointment is real. It's not the country Quaid envisioned. Ones who can get out, I guess it's okay to be a 2nd-grade citizen somewhere else than an oppressed, 3rd class citizen with no rights in your own country," she concluded, referring to people desperately trying to flee the country for a better quality of life.

Ashraf's post shed light on the disappointment many individuals who aspire to see a more inclusive and diverse Pakistan feel. The HEC's decision to ban Holi celebrations in universities is a shock to many. While the intention behind the ban may have been to prevent any potential conflicts or controversies. It has, nevertheless, sparked a wider discussion on the importance of embracing diversity.

Published in The Daily National Courier, June, 22 2023

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