KARACHI: The reason Pakistani actress Mahira Khan and Fahad Mustafa were not included in this year’s national awards list has emerged, with Sindh Culture Minister Zulfiqar Ali Shah saying the federal government did not approve their nominations.
Mahira and Fahad are among the prominent figures in Pakistan’s film and television industry. Both have appeared in several successful films and dramas and have received various awards in Pakistan and abroad.
According to the Sindh culture minister, the provincial government had recommended both actors for national awards, but their nominations were not approved by the federal government.
The statement came during an event attended by Fahad Mustafa’s father and veteran actor Salahuddin Tunio.
Mahira and Fahad were again absent from this year’s national awards list, while some of their contemporaries and younger actors, including Mehwish Hayat and Sajal Aly, have previously received national honors.
The minister’s remarks have sparked discussion on social media, with some users arguing that Mahira Khan and Fahad Mustafa deserve national recognition for their contributions to Pakistan’s entertainment industry.