Why Did Ayat Arif’s Fashion Show Appearance Go Viral?
News Desk
Karachi: Pakistani child star Ayat Arif has come under criticism on social media after videos of her walking the ramp at a recent bridal fashion show went viral.
Ayat, who initially gained recognition for reciting naats during live television transmissions, later built a following as a YouTuber and established herself as a child entertainer.
She recently appeared at a bridal fashion event, where she walked the runway independently and posed for cameras in a colourful floral lehenga featuring traditional embellishments.
Videos from the event quickly circulated across social media platforms, drawing mixed reactions from users. While some viewers praised the young performer for her confidence and stage presence, others questioned whether children should be presented in a modelling environment at such a young age.
Several social media users criticised what they described as an overly mature presentation of a child and questioned the role of parents and organisers in such appearances.
One user commented that the responsibility rests with the parents, arguing that “a child should remain a child.”
The debate has since expanded beyond Ayat’s individual appearance, with users discussing the growing involvement of children in fashion, entertainment and social media and the responsibility of families and industry organisers to ensure age-appropriate environments.
Ayat’s supporters, meanwhile, have defended her participation and confidence, highlighting her experience in entertainment and public performances from a young age.
The viral videos have once again sparked discussion online about child performers, parental choices and the boundaries between children’s entertainment and the adult-oriented fashion and media industries.
