Attendance for healing: A support system for women in Karachi

At first, no one could believe it. How could a smiling, successful actress—active on social media, adored by fans—be found dead, alone in her apartment?

When the devastating news broke that actress Humaira Asghar Ali had passed away in her Karachi flat, the entertainment industry was left reeling. She had been living alone for seven years, far from family and without close companionship.

Out of that grief came action.

Speaking to Nukta, actress Tuba Anwar revealed that shortly after Humaira’s death, a private WhatsApp group was formed by fellow actresses, exclusively for women in the industry who live alone in Karachi.

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But this isn’t just a casual chat group.

It’s a support system built on three core values: safety, solidarity, and mental wellness.

“This group isn’t something I started—I’m just part of it,” Tuba clarified.
“It was actually initiated by Mansha Pasha, Yashma Gill, Zhalay Sarhadi, and Areeba Habib.”

The group’s main rule is simple but powerful: a weekly check-in. Every member must respond—like a virtual roll call—to confirm they’re safe. If someone doesn’t reply, others will personally follow up.

Beyond that, the group offers emotional support—and when needed, even financial or logistical help.

“I live in Karachi with my family,” Tuba added, “but many actresses here live completely alone—some without any close relatives. That’s why this kind of initiative was so badly needed.”

In a fast-paced city like Karachi, it’s not just showbiz professionals, but also young women in media and other industries, who are often navigating life without nearby support systems.

Humaira’s sudden passing left behind a haunting question:

Are we truly connected to the people around us—or are we just pretending to be?

Now, Attendance for Healing is more than just a group. It’s a small but mighty act of care—built to check in, reach out, and hold space for one another in an industry that often feels all lights on the outside, and very little warmth on the inside.