Sindh Minister Claims Mahira, Fahad Denied Sitara-e-Imtiaz

KARACHI: (Staff Reprter) – Sindh Culture and Tourism Minister Syed Zulfiqar Ali Shah has claimed that the federal government rejected nominations for leading Pakistani actors Mahira Khan and Fahad Mustafa for the prestigious Sitara-e-Imtiaz.

Speaking at the opening of the eight-day Wes-Dhaari Sindhi Theatre Festival 2026 in Karachi, Zulfiqar Shah said the Sindh Culture Department had nominated both actors for the national honour on two separate occasions.

According to the minister, the nominations were submitted by a committee comprising prominent personalities. He claimed, however, that the federal government did not approve the recommendations, while the reasons for their rejection were not made public.

The minister questioned why Mahira Khan and Fahad Mustafa, whom he described as two of Sindh’s prominent entertainment figures, had not received federal recognition despite their contributions to Pakistan’s film and television industries.

Sindh artists gaining international recognition

Zulfiqar Shah also highlighted the growing international profile of artists from Sindh, saying performers from the province have established audiences not only across Pakistan but also in India and Gulf countries.

He said the work of Sindh’s artists has helped promote Pakistan’s cultural identity internationally, but many performers have yet to receive what he considers adequate recognition at the national level.

The minister specifically praised Mahira Khan and Fahad Mustafa for their contributions to Pakistan’s entertainment industry and their visibility on international platforms.

Minister calls for greater support

The Sindh culture minister called on the federal government to give greater attention to the country’s artists and cultural sector.

He said prominent performers have contributed to Pakistan’s cultural image and brought recognition to the country, making stronger institutional support and national honours important.

“I urge the federal government to pay attention to artists and the cultural sector,” Zulfiqar Ali Shah said.

He reiterated that Mahira Khan and Fahad Mustafa had reportedly been nominated twice for the Sitara-e-Imtiaz, but were ultimately not included among the recipients.

The minister said the issue points to a broader need for greater federal support and recognition for artists contributing to Pakistan’s cultural and entertainment landscape.