Veteran Pakistani actress Fazila Qazi has openly criticized the distribution of Presidential Awards, asserting that they are often awarded based on personal connections instead of genuine merit.
Speaking alongside her husband, actor Qaiser Nizamani, on Tabish Hashmi’s show Hansna Mana Hai, Fazila highlighted her concerns about deserving artists being overlooked for national recognition.
With a touch of sarcasm, she expressed gratitude that her husband received the Presidential Award at a time when such honors were truly based on an artist’s work rather than recommendations.
Fazila disclosed that while files for artists considered for the award are typically prepared, hers has remained inactive for five years. She expressed frustration with the authorities, suggesting they disregard hardworking artists.
Earlier this year, winners of the 2024 Presidential Awards celebrated their achievements on social media, many expressing heartfelt gratitude.
Among the recipients was filmmaker Bilal Lashari, honored with the Sitara-i-Imtiaz for his significant contributions to Pakistani cinema. After the success of The Legend of Maula Jatt, he shared two posts on Instagram—one showcasing him proudly with the award and another from the ceremony, thanking his family, friends, and colleagues for their unwavering support.
Vasay Chaudhry, who received the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz, shared his joy on Instagram through two posts. The first highlighted the award, expressing thanks to the Government of Pakistan and those who supported his work, while the second featured a proud solo shot taken after the ceremony.
Sajal Ali, also a recipient of the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz, posted a video of herself receiving the award, crediting her success to her family, especially her late mother, whose hard work and prayers she acknowledged as pivotal to her achievements.
Veteran actor Adnan Siddiqui, awarded the Pride of Performance, reflected on his 30-year journey in the entertainment industry in a heartfelt Instagram post. He shared a collection of videos and images from the ceremony, expressing gratitude to his mentors and acknowledging the absence of late family members. He dedicated the award to his fans, recognizing their continuous support as vital to his success.
