Masarrat Misbah Opens Up About Her Divorce at 18: “I Came from a Home Where Women Didn’t Even Speak Loudly”

LAHORE: Renowned Pakistani beautician, entrepreneur, and social activist **Masarrat Misbah** has opened up about her early marriage and subsequent divorce, revealing the struggles she faced at a young age.

Speaking candidly in a recent television program, Masarrat Misbah — known for her humanitarian work rehabilitating acid attack survivors — shared that she was **married at just 18 years old**, but the relationship **did not last long**.

Masarrat said she had **never spoken publicly about her divorce** before, but after consulting a religious scholar, she realized that sharing her experience could inspire and support other women facing similar hardships. “The scholar reminded me that even the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) spoke openly about family matters to guide others,” she said.

Opening up about her upbringing, she noted, “I came from a household where women didn’t even speak loudly.” She explained that after facing **domestic violence and fear** in her marriage, she ultimately chose to end the relationship for the sake of her children — a decision she said her father and family fully supported.

Masarrat Misbah also recalled a harrowing detail from her past, saying her husband used to **drag her by her hair during violent episodes**, which led her to cut her hair short to minimize his control.

Her story has been widely praised for shedding light on the challenges faced by women experiencing domestic abuse and for encouraging victims to seek strength and support instead of suffering in silence.