Acclaimed actress reveals the lasting impact of portraying a workplace assault survivor
Award-winning actress Saba Qamar has shared a deeply personal reflection on the emotional and physical challenges she faced while filming the hit drama series Case No. 9.
Taking to Instagram, the Baaghi star revealed that performing intense scenes depicting trauma took a serious toll on her mental and physical health.
“Being emotional during such scenes affects the actor deeply,” she wrote. “I’m still trying to cope with the health problems that arose from those scenes. But I’m staying strong.”
Saba’s powerful portrayal of Sahar, a professional woman fighting against workplace assault and systemic abuse, has been widely praised for its emotional depth and authenticity.
A Role That Demanded Everything
In Case No. 9, written by Shahzeb Khanzada and directed by Syed Wajahat Hussain, Saba Qamar brings to life the story of a woman confronting her abuser — a powerful and manipulative boss. The drama delves into harassment, power abuse, and women’s resilience, shedding light on the often-unspoken emotional scars of such experiences.
Saba’s performance drew critical acclaim for its rawness and intensity. However, behind the camera, the emotional strain was real.
“When you relive trauma, even as a performer, it leaves a mark,” she shared.
The actress’ revelation has sparked conversations about mental health in acting — a topic often overlooked in the entertainment industry, where emotional labor is an invisible part of the craft.
Peers and Fans Praise Saba’s Courage
Saba also shared a clip from Kya Drama Hai, featuring Shamoon Abbasi, Nadia Khan, and Atiqa Odho, who commended her for tackling such a difficult role with courage and honesty.
Her post quickly went viral, with fans and fellow artists sending messages of love, strength, and admiration.
“Saba is one of the few actresses who don’t just perform a role — they live it,” one fan commented. “Her portrayal of Sahar is a masterclass in acting and empathy.”
A Voice for Women’s Empowerment
Over the years, Saba Qamar has built a reputation for taking on bold, socially relevant characters — from Baaghi and Cheekh to Fraud and Case No. 9. Her work often centers on women’s empowerment, breaking stereotypes and starting important national conversations.
Her willingness to speak openly about the emotional cost of storytelling has once again cemented her as one of Pakistan’s most respected and fearless performers.
