Sindh Culture and Tourism Minister Syed Zulfiqar Ali Shah has claimed that the federal government did not approve the nominations of leading Pakistani actors Mahira Khan and Fahad Mustafa for the prestigious Sitara-e-Imtiaz award.
According to the minister, the Sindh Culture Department nominated both actors for the national honor on two separate occasions. However, their names were reportedly not included among the recipients.
Zulfiqar Ali Shah made the remarks while speaking at the opening ceremony of the eight-day Wes-Dhaari Sindhi Theatre Festival 2026 in Karachi.
The minister said the nominations for Mahira Khan and Fahad Mustafa were submitted by a committee comprising prominent personalities. He claimed that the recommendations were rejected at the federal level, although no specific reason for the decision had been explained.
The comments have drawn attention because both Mahira Khan and Fahad Mustafa are among Pakistan’s most prominent contemporary actors. Their careers have included successful television dramas, films and major entertainment projects.
Zulfiqar Ali Shah questioned why the two actors, who are associated with Sindh, had not received federal recognition despite their contributions to Pakistan’s entertainment industry.
The minister also used the occasion to highlight the broader contribution of artists from Sindh. He said performers from the province have gained recognition not only across Pakistan but also in international markets, including India and the Gulf countries.
According to Shah, Sindh’s artists have played an important role in promoting Pakistan’s cultural identity beyond the country’s borders. He argued that their contributions should receive greater recognition at the national level.
The minister specifically described Mahira Khan and Fahad Mustafa as major Pakistani stars who have represented the country internationally through their work.
Mahira Khan has established herself as one of Pakistan’s best-known television and film actors, with a career that has also included projects outside the country. Fahad Mustafa has similarly built a prominent career as an actor, producer and television personality.
The Sitara-e-Imtiaz is one of Pakistan’s major civil awards and is given in recognition of distinguished contributions in various fields. The award is therefore considered an important form of national recognition for individuals who have made significant contributions to society and the country.
Shah’s remarks have also raised a broader discussion about the recognition of artists and cultural figures. The minister urged the federal government to pay greater attention to the entertainment and cultural sectors.
“I urge the federal government to pay attention to artists and the cultural sector,” Zulfiqar Ali Shah said.
He reiterated his claim that Mahira Khan and Fahad Mustafa had been nominated twice for the Sitara-e-Imtiaz but were ultimately not selected.
The minister said the issue reflects a wider need for stronger federal support for artists who contribute to Pakistan’s cultural and entertainment landscape.
While the claims regarding the rejected nominations were made by the Sindh culture minister, the reasons for the reported non-selection have not been publicly explained in the information provided.
The development is likely to generate further discussion among fans and members of Pakistan’s entertainment industry, particularly over how national honors are awarded to prominent artists and cultural personalities.
