I never said acting in films was a sin: Popy clarifies

Popular actress Sadika Parvin Popy has rejected claims that she described acting in films as a “sin” and said she has never announced her retirement from the film industry.

The clarification comes after an excerpt from an interview she gave last year resurfaced online, triggering discussion and criticism across the entertainment industry and social media.

In the widely circulated excerpt, Popy was heard saying, “I want to wash away whatever sins I have accumulated and live the rest of my life seeking guidance from Allah.”

The comment led some to interpret it as a reference to her film career and an indication that she had decided to quit acting.

Actor Bapparaj also weighed in on the remarks, while the issue sparked further debate on social media.

Popy has now sought to clear up the misunderstanding, saying she never once referred to acting in films as a sin. She said people may commit sins knowingly or unknowingly and that seeking forgiveness from Allah is a natural part of life.

“I never said that I committed sins by acting in films,” Popy said. “Don’t people ask Allah for forgiveness for their own sins? We commit sins knowingly or unknowingly, so why shouldn’t we seek forgiveness? If I ask Allah to forgive my sins and can live peacefully with my husband and family, there is nothing wrong with that.”

She also stressed her continued respect and affection for the film industry, saying there was no reason for her to speak negatively about an industry that had given her recognition, fame and respect while allowing her to earn through years of hard work.

Popy also denied that she had retired from acting. She said she remains open to returning to the screen if she comes across a strong story. She even expressed interest in playing herself in a film based on her life.

Beyond acting, Popy said she is also interested in film production and may produce a movie in the future if she finds a compelling story.

For now, she is spending most of her time with her husband Adnan and their only son Ayat. She said she has stepped back from films to focus on the needs of her personal life and that her husband has been supportive while she enjoys spending time with their son.

Popy’s latest released film is Direct Attack. She had begun shooting several other projects but was ultimately unable to maintain regular involvement in them.