Lahore, Pakistan – In a deeply emotional and viral video that has touched the hearts of many Pakistanis, veteran stage and television actress Abida Baig has made a heartfelt appeal to Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and Information Minister Azma Bokhari for urgent financial and residential assistance.
Best known for her iconic association with the classic PTV comedy-drama Sona Chandi, Abida Baig has highlighted severe financial difficulties, including the loss of her home, which she claims was unlawfully occupied. The veteran artist, who has dedicated over 35 years to the entertainment industry, appeared visibly distressed while pleading for help to support herself, her children, and grandchildren.
A Life in Service to the Arts
Abida Baig, a prominent figure in Pakistani stage dramas and television, rose through years of dedicated performances alongside her late husband, Mirza Rasheed Akhtar, who reportedly contributed four decades to the field. The couple was known for their commitment, often continuing shows even during personal hardships like family funerals.
While the lead role of Chandi in the original 1982-83 PTV serial Sona Chandi (starring Sheeba Hassan as Chandi and Hamid Rana as Sona) is widely remembered, Abida Baig has been strongly linked to the character in public memory through stage adaptations, related productions, or her broader body of work in similar folk-comedy roles. Her contributions span television and especially vibrant Punjabi stage dramas, where she earned acclaim for powerful and memorable performances.
The Heartbreaking Appeal
In the widely circulated video, a tearful Abida Baig says: “I am Abida Baig, who has served the arts for 35 years… The roof of my house has been taken from me. I have two children, grandchildren and our income is not enough to live in a rented house.” She directly appealed to CM Maryam Nawaz, reminding her of the government’s emphasis on supporting women, and requested a personal meeting for intervention.
She also highlighted that her only major asset — her house — is now at risk, leaving her family in a precarious situation.
Public Reaction and Support
The video quickly went viral on social media platforms, sparking widespread sympathy and discussions about the welfare of veteran artists in Pakistan. Many fans and industry figures expressed concern over how legends who brought joy to millions through their work often face neglect in their later years.
Following the appeal, reports emerged that Punjab’s Information Minister Azma Bokhari responded by presenting a cheque of Rs500,000 to the actress, offering some immediate relief. However, Abida Baig’s broader plea for long-term support, including resolution of her housing issue, continues to resonate.
A Recurring Challenge for Artists
Abida Baig’s situation underscores a larger issue within Pakistan’s entertainment industry. Many veteran performers, especially those from the pre-cable and stage-drama era, struggle with inadequate pensions, lack of structured welfare schemes, and rising living costs. While newer generations benefit from commercial success and digital platforms, older artists often rely on sporadic support or personal savings that can quickly deplete.
Her story has renewed calls for systemic solutions — such as an artists’ welfare fund, healthcare benefits, and housing support — to honor those who shaped Pakistan’s cultural landscape.
As the nation reflects on Sona Chandi’s timeless humor and the simple wisdom of its characters, Abida Baig’s current reality serves as a poignant reminder: behind the laughter and applause, many artists face silent battles that deserve attention and dignity in their twilight years.
Pakistan’s cultural icons like Abida Baig deserve more than nostalgia — they deserve respect, recognition, and reliable support when they need it most.
