“Circumstances Dragged Me Onto the Street”: Veteran Pakistani Actress Sells Cold Milk Bottles in Quetta

Islamabad — Once a familiar face on Pakistani television and stage, actress Muskan Malik is now struggling with severe financial hardship and has been forced to sell cold milk bottles by the roadside in Quetta to support her ailing husband and family.

Far from the glamour of show business, Malik says changing times, unemployment and mounting expenses have left her with no other option. “My circumstances dragged me onto the street, and I am selling cold milk bottles here,” she said. “But I have not given up being an artist. I am still waiting for work, and I will work when I get it.”

She lives in a rented house and faces heavy electricity and gas bills — sometimes reaching Rs20,000 to Rs25,000 — along with water tanker costs and medical expenses.

Malik receives a monthly grant of Rs10,000 under the government’s artist welfare fund. Critics say more effective and lasting support is needed for veteran performers who spent their lives entertaining the public.