Rajab Butt breaks silence on awards nomination controversy

ISLAMABAD: (Showbiz Desk) – Pakistani YouTuber Rajab Butt has addressed the ongoing debate over his absence from the nomination list for the upcoming Sunday Special Icon Awards, saying he has little interest in awards or nominations.

In a video that has gone viral on social media, Rajab said he was unaware an awards ceremony was even being held until he watched a video by fellow content creator Sid Rapper.

Responding to the controversy, Rajab said he questioned why Sid Rapper had devoted so much attention to the issue, adding that he neither expected nor wanted a nomination.

“I only found out about the awards after watching Sid Rapper’s video. I don’t even know whether it’s the Sunday Magazine Awards or something else. I asked Sid why he explained it in so much detail. Who even wants an award? Do you really think they’re going to nominate me? Whether they invite someone else or give the award to anyone they choose, it doesn’t matter to me. I don’t even want to be nominated, and I have no intention of attending to receive an award,” he said.

Rajab’s response quickly gained traction online, with many fans praising his relaxed attitude toward awards, while others continued discussing whether Pakistan’s leading digital creators should receive greater recognition at mainstream entertainment events.

The debate began after Sid Rapper posted a viral video questioning why Rajab Butt was left out of the Best YouTuber category despite being one of Pakistan’s most-followed and most-discussed digital creators.

Sid argued that regardless of differing opinions about Rajab, his popularity and influence in Pakistan’s online content space made him deserving of at least a nomination. He also suggested the organisers may have deliberately excluded the YouTuber despite his widespread audience.

The controversy has sparked mixed reactions across social media. While many users supported Sid Rapper’s argument and called for Rajab’s inclusion, others maintained that award nominations should be based on multiple factors beyond online popularity and viewership.