KARACHI: According to recent reports, prominent Pakistani entertainment icons Mahira Khan and Fahad Mustafa have allegedly faced setbacks regarding national recognition. Sindh’s Minister for Culture and Tourism, Syed Zulfiqar Ali Shah, revealed during an address in Karachi that the Sindh Culture Department officially proposed both artists for the prestigious Sitara-e-Imtiaz on two separate occasions. These recommendations were put forward following a rigorous evaluation by a committee consisting of notable figures from the industry. Despite their monumental contributions to Pakistani cinema and television—and their efforts in projecting Pakistan’s cultural footprint across India and the Gulf region—federal authorities reportedly did not approve the nominations, leaving the exact rationale unaddressed. Expressing dismay over the oversight, the provincial minister has urged the federal government to prioritize and appropriately honor the country’s cultural ambassadors who continue to elevate Pakistan’s prestige globally.
