Pakistani actor Danish Taimoor has issued a public apology following intense backlash over his controversial remarks about polygamy made during a recent Ramadan television transmission.
The controversy erupted when Taimoor, speaking on a TV program with his wife Ayeza Khan present, stated that men have the right to marry four women according to Islamic law. His comments sparked particular outrage when he added, "The permission to men for four marriages has been granted, but I am not doing it yet, that's a different story."
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What especially angered viewers was Taimoor's use of the word "filhal" (meaning "for now") when he continued, "I say this in front of her [Ayeza Khan] and today I'm saying it in front of you all, I am allowed to marry four times […] but it's because of my love and respect for her, that for now [filhal], I want to spend my life with her."
Following widespread criticism across social media platforms, Taimoor took to Instagram to address the controversy and apologize to his fans.
"I know all of you are a bit upset with me. Whatever happened on that day, some people think that I disrespected my wife. However, that's definitely not the case," Taimoor explained in his video statement.
The actor emphasized that disrespecting his wife was never his intention, clarifying that "filhal" is a word he frequently uses in everyday conversation. "I just want to stress that the word 'filhal [for now]' is a word that I often use in my daily life because I believe that we are not in this world forever. We talk about the present, which is 'filhal (for now)' and I especially speak about that."
Taimoor acknowledged that his choice of words was unfortunate. "Maybe I should not have used that word, maybe it was a slip of tongue, or whatever it was," he admitted.
In his 18-year career, Taimoor noted this was his first major controversy. "It's been 18 years now and I have not been involved in any controversy and I'd like to keep it that way by finishing this issue right now. Because it was not my intention nor was such a thought in my heart."
The actor concluded his apology by reassuring fans about his relationship with Ayeza Khan. "Believe me, I do not want you guys [fans] to be upset with me as I am here to entertain you guys. I have dedicated my life to entertaining people and making them happy. So I want you to stay happy as I am at home with my wife and kids. Ayeza and I are very happy."
Taimoor and Khan, who married in 2014, are among Pakistan's most popular celebrity couples and have two children together.
