By:
Jamshed Hasrat Rind
The Words That Still Echo
Saadat Hasan Manto once said:
“If you see prostitution in my stories, it means the fault is not in me but in society.”
Even today, his words hit like a slap to our collective face. In an age dominated by social media, where people chase likes, views, and followers more than truth, dignity, and values — we must ask ourselves: where are we heading? Our societal norms, once rooted in honor and education, are now replaced by an obsession with going viral. The very things we once found shameful are now performed in public for entertainment — and approval.
The Pain of Seeing Talent Wasted
I have been using social media for a long time, and every day, I see new faces and new trends. But there’s one thing that truly hurts: the number of educated, respectable girls from good families who post dance videos and provocative content just to get attention. And what’s even more shocking — they are proud of it. They treat it like an achievement, as if virality is a symbol of success. I remember the words of a girl in a speech that went viral:
“One girl’s viral dance steps can ruin your PhD and research.”
That wasn’t just sarcasm — it was truth. The bitter truth we don’t want to admit.
Trends Over Talent
Today’s generation doesn’t prioritize education, hard work, or intelligence. All that matters is “what’s trending.” The current trend? Selling your image like a shop item — dressing, posing, and dancing in a way that grabs views. And the irony? That’s now labeled as success. Sadly, these girls are the granddaughters of the same rich men who once paid poor women to dance in private. But today, no one is forcing them — they’re doing it voluntarily for fake fame, digital claps, and shallow followers.
Redefining Respect?
This brings me to a painful question: Who changed the meaning of respect? Mothers work day and night to raise their daughters with love, dignity, and dreams. Is this what they hoped for — to see their daughters dancing on TikTok and Instagram just to go “viral”? In this race for views, we are losing our inner peace, values, and self-worth. Respect is being traded for likes. Effort is replaced by filters. Intelligence is ignored while the most provocative content gets rewarded. And we still wonder what’s going wrong?
Purposeful Content vs Copy Culture
Using social media isn’t wrong. But the real question is: what are you using it for? There are countless ways to contribute — make videos about books, knowledge, cooking, skills, education, or motivation. But sadly, most girls don’t choose that path. Instead, they just copy each other. They think, “If she went viral, why not me?”, “If she got followers, why can’t I?” This creates a cycle of competition that forces girls to forget who they really are and what they’re truly capable of.
Know Your Worth
Girls — you can do better. You are better. But to reach your potential, you must first know yourself. This fake fame, these temporary followers — they will all disappear one day. What remains is your identity, your character, and your respect. Ask yourself: will this video make your father proud, or ashamed? Will it let your mother sleep in peace, or keep her awake with worry? Will your brother be able to walk confidently, or lower his eyes in embarrassment?
The Unfair Impact on Genuine Girls
Your one video can set a dangerous example for another girl who is trying hard to pursue education and respect. It’s sad, but true — such girls must work twice as hard to prove themselves in this environment. Their talent gets ignored because society begins to see all girls through the same lens. This race for cheap fame has consequences — not just for you, but for others too.
Beauty Lies Beyond the Screen
Remember, the same people clapping for you today may insult you tomorrow. Beauty isn’t just in your body — it’s in your mind, your heart, your character, your speech, and your modesty. Yes, your body is your own — no one can take that away from you. But social media is not a private place. It’s not a corner where no one watches. It’s a marketplace, and your actions are always under the public eye. People don’t care about your intentions. They only judge what they see.
The Mirror, Not the Critic
So, ask yourself: do you want to portray yourself as a digital object for views? Or as a strong, wise, and respectable girl who inspires others to be better? This isn’t criticism. It’s a mirror — trying to show you what’s happening. A reflection that you may be avoiding.
Final Thought
I know some readers, especially men, may feel uncomfortable with this message. There’s a reason for that too — but I will not address it here. This blog isn’t an attack. It’s a wake-up call. It’s a cry for self-awareness. Fame fades. But dignity lasts.
