From Privilege to Hardship
Veteran Pakistani actor Imran Qureshi, known for his extensive work in television and theatre, recently opened up about the financial difficulties he faced earlier in life. During an emotional appearance on a private TV program, Qureshi recounted the sharp contrast between his privileged upbringing and the hardships that later engulfed his family.
I was born into a wealthy family, he said, reflecting on his early life. I never experienced poverty. My mother lived a life of comfort, almost like royalty. But 20 years ago, life took a sharp turn, and our financial situation worsened dramatically.
The actor revealed that his deepest regret stemmed from being unable to provide the same comfort to his mother during their difficult years. What pains me most is that I could not give my mother the conveniences she deserved, he said, his voice choked with emotion.
Struggling to Make Ends Meet
Qureshi described a time when his family faced severe financial stress. There were days when we worried about how we would arrange meals, he recalled. Although his circumstances have improved over time, he expressed sorrow that his mother was no longer alive to witness the recovery.
The actor’s story underscores the unpredictable nature of life, even for those who start with apparent privilege. Many families experience sudden financial reversals due to economic changes, business failures, or health crises, and Qureshi’s candid account resonates with many who have faced similar struggles in Pakistan’s uncertain economic climate.
Humbling Work Experiences
In one of the most striking revelations, Qureshi shared that his financial difficulties forced him to work in his own shop. I had to work at the very shop I owned, he admitted. He went on to explain that he even took on menial tasks at a clothing store, including cleaning glass and washing dishes. Those were moments when I cried, he said, emphasizing the emotional toll these experiences took on him.
His honesty about performing tasks far below his social and professional standing highlights the resilience required to survive financial hardship. Qureshi’s story also reflects a broader reality in the entertainment industry, where many actors face uncertain incomes, especially after periods of fame.
A Reflection on Life and Gratitude
Despite the struggles, Qureshi emphasized the lessons learned from his journey. He noted that while financial stability eventually returned, the emotional scars remained. His story serves as a reminder of the fragility of wealth and the importance of appreciating family and relationships.
In Pakistan, where economic instability and inflation frequently affect households, Qureshi’s experience is particularly poignant. According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, inflation reached 22.8% in 2025, making everyday essentials unaffordable for many families. Stories like Qureshi’s humanize these numbers, showing how macroeconomic challenges translate into personal hardship.
Legacy Beyond Wealth
Imran Qureshi’s journey from a life of privilege to financial struggle and back again illustrates the unpredictability of life in both the entertainment industry and ordinary society. His emotional recollections underscore a universal truth: wealth can be fleeting, but resilience, humility, and the bonds of family leave lasting impressions.
As Qureshi continues his career, he hopes his story will inspire others to persevere, remain humble, and cherish loved ones. Even in hardship, we learn the most about ourselves, he concluded, offering a message of endurance and reflection to his audience.
