Lahore (TASSAWAR NEWS): Actress and TV host Ushna Shah has raised concerns over Punjabis’ lack of pride in speaking their mother tongue.
Ushna’s Statement
Speaking on a podcast, Ushna expressed disappointment, questioning:
“Why don’t Punjabis take pride in their own language? I don’t understand what problem they have with Punjabi.”
She noted that while Sindhi and Pashtun communities proudly converse in their mother tongues, Punjabis often avoid speaking theirs. She added that across the globe, from Persian speakers to other ethnic groups, people cherish and use their native languages.
Personal Experience
Ushna revealed that she spent most of her childhood in Canada, where she also completed her education. Because of this, her English carries a Canadian accent, which has often made her a target of criticism and mockery — even from her own brother.
She explained that Pakistanis criticize both ways:
- If someone speaks poor English, they face ridicule.
- If someone speaks good English with a foreign accent, they are also criticized.
Call for Punjabi Pride
Highlighting Punjabi’s global cultural influence, Ushna said that Punjabi music is celebrated worldwide, yet many Punjabis themselves hesitate to embrace the language.
She urged that Punjabis should feel proud and preserve their linguistic heritage.
