Sana Javed: Career, Controversy & Comeback in 2025

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Sana Javed is a big name in Pakistan’s drama scene, known for her killer roles in shows like Khaani and Ruswai. But her journey hasn’t been all smooth—controversies have stirred up drama off-screen too. From her rise as a talented actress to a messy public backlash and her recent comeback, Sana’s story is a rollercoaster. This article dives into her career, the controversies that shook her rep, and how she’s bouncing back in 2025, all in easy, Pakistani-style English that clicks with readers in Lahore, Karachi, or beyond. We’ve pulled info from credible spots like The Express Tribune and other local sources to keep it real.

Sana Javed’s Career: From Newbie to Star

Sana kicked off her career as a model, popping up in TV commercials before jumping into acting in 2012. She started small with supporting roles in dramas like Shehr-e-Zaat and Mera Pehla Pyar. Her big break came in 2016 with Zara Yaad Kar on Hum TV, where she played a bold antagonist opposite Zahid Ahmed and Yumna Zaidi. Fans loved her vibe, and she became a household name.

In 2017, Sana took the lead in Khaani, a romantic drama that was a massive hit. Her role as a fierce yet heartbroken woman earned her a Lux Style Award nomination. She didn’t stop there—Sana made her film debut with Mehrunisa V Lub U and starred in heavy-hitting dramas like Ruswai (2019), where she played a rape survivor, nabbing a Pakistan International Screen Award for Best Actress Critics. Her role in Dunk (2020) as a student making a false accusation stirred buzz, though the show got mixed reviews. Sana’s knack for intense roles made her a go-to for complex characters. She also captained the Islamabad Dragons in Jeeto Pakistan League in 2020, showing her fun side.

The 2022 Controversy: What Went Down?

Sana’s career hit a rough patch in 2022 when allegations of unprofessional behavior blew up online. It all started when model Manal Saleem posted on Instagram, hinting at an actress with a “self-entitled attitude” who called her a “do takay ki model” during a shoot. Though Manal didn’t name Sana, makeup artists Ikram Gohar and Rhyan Thomas tagged her, accusing her of mistreating crew members. Gohar claimed Sana was rude during a nikah makeup trial, even denying him a bathroom break, while Thomas said she wasted his time and tried to sabotage model Sadaf Kanwal’s look at the PISA Awards out of insecurity.

More folks, like stylist Anila Murtaza and model Mahnoor Sheikh, chimed in, painting Sana as a bully. The backlash was brutal—fashion brand Rang Rasiya dropped her from their Eid campaign, replacing her with Urwa Hocane, and social media erupted with criticism. Sana called the claims a “smear campaign,” issuing a PKR 100 million defamation notice to Manal Saleem. She stayed mostly quiet otherwise, but some, like cricketer Shoaib Malik, defended her, saying she was always kind in his experience. The controversy cost her gigs and sparked debates about cancel culture in Pakistan’s showbiz.

Personal Life Drama: Marriages and More

Sana’s personal life also grabbed headlines. In 2020, she married singer Umair Jaswal in a private Karachi nikah, but the couple reportedly split by 2023. Then, in January 2024, Sana tied the knot with cricketer Shoaib Malik, amid rumors of his divorce from tennis star Sania Mirza. The wedding went viral, but it wasn’t all love—Sana faced trolling for allegedly mimicking Anushka Sharma’s supportive wife vibe at Malik’s cricket matches. Some fans even linked her marriage to a career dip, speculating she might prioritize family over acting.

Sana’s Comeback in 2025

After the 2022 drama, Sana took a step back but made a splashy return with Sukoon in 2023, starring alongside Ahsan Khan. Playing a dreamy heroine in a love triangle, she showed off a slimmer look, sharing on Good Morning Pakistan that she focused on healthy eating to prep for the role. While Sukoon got mixed reviews, her performance was praised for its charm, proving she’s still got it.

In 2025, Sana’s working on rebuilding her image. She’s active on Instagram as Sana Shoaib Malik, posting about her life and projects, and there’s buzz about new dramas in the pipeline. The Express Tribune reported her wedding video with Malik drew mixed reactions, but her fans are rooting for her comeback. She’s steering clear of controversy, focusing on work, and letting her talent speak. Unlike some actors like Feroze Khan, who faced less career fallout despite scandals, Sana’s had to hustle harder to regain trust, highlighting a double standard in the industry.

Tips for Following Sana’s Journey

• Stay Updated: Check The Express Tribune (tribune.com.pk) for the latest on Sana’s projects and public appearances.
• Watch Her Work: Stream Khaani, Ruswai, or Sukoon on YouTube or ARY Digital to see her range.
• Avoid Rumors: Social media’s full of gossip—stick to verified news to get the real story.
• Support Local Talent: Follow Sana on Instagram (@sanajaved.official) to cheer her comeback.

Conclusion

Sana Javed’s career is a mix of epic highs and tough lows. From ruling TV screens with Khaani to facing a 2022 controversy that cost her brand deals, she’s shown grit. Her 2023 comeback with Sukoon and her 2024 marriage to Shoaib Malik kept her in the spotlight, and in 2025, she’s ready to shine again. Pakistani fans in Lahore, Karachi, or Islamabad can keep up with her through trusted sources like The Express Tribune. Sana’s story proves talent can outlast drama—so head to tribune.com.pk for the latest on her next big move!