Breaking The Chains: Pakistani Mom Dances Past Divorce Stigma In Viral Video

A Pakistani woman has taken the internet by storm with a powerful dance video that carries a strong message about divorce, societal stigma, and self-empowerment. Azima Ihsan, a divorced mother of three, was seen dancing gracefully to Coke Studio Pakistan’s song ‘Maghron La’ at an event. Dressed in traditional attire, she moved with confidence as the audience cheered for her.

WATCH: Pakistani Mom of Three Dances Her Way Past Divorce Stigma

A text overlay on the video read, "You found the perfect song to dance to as a recently divorced Pakistani mother of three." In the caption of her post, Ihsan shared a strong message about how divorce is viewed in Pakistani society, especially for women.

"Divorce in the Pakistani community, tbh, is treated like a death sentence, especially for women. I was told my life was over, I’d regret it, my life was going to go downhill, and happiness? Forget it. The judgement still comes, but guess what? I dance through it. I laugh through it. Life isn’t as bad as I was told it would be. The opposite, actually," she wrote.

Ihsan also stressed that staying in a loveless or unhappy marriage is worse than getting divorced. "We act like ‘divorce’ is a dirty word when it should be seen as what it can be: a fresh start. Yes, it’s hard and heartbreaking. Yes, it’s lonely. But staying stuck in a marriage where you can’t breathe? That’s worse. To be stuck in an unhappy marriage is way worse than being divorced."

She revealed that while she never wanted to be a divorcee, she ultimately chose this path for herself and her three children. "I didn’t choose this journey lightly; I actually never wanted to be a divorcee, but for me and my three kids? It was freedom. Even for my ex-partner, it was the best decision for the both of us."

Ihsan urged women not to stay in a marriage just to avoid the stigma of divorce. "Marriage should be built on love and respect, not fear of stigma. I see too many Pakistani women sacrificing themselves just to avoid that ‘divorced’ label. To them, I say: Your happiness matters. Sukoon (peace) matters. Life goes on. Don’t be afraid."

Ending on a hopeful note, she shared how her life has transformed two years after her divorce. "Two years post-divorce, I’m living proof, you can simultaneously cry, heal, and then DANCE like nobody’s watching."

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