Nabeel Zafar, a Pakistani entertainment industry stalwart has offered candid insights into the dynamics of awards culture in a recent appearance on the Adnan Faisal Podcast. With a career spanning decades, the Bulbulay star’s candid, yet restrained commentary sheds light on the complexities and nuances of an industry where recognition often comes hand-in-hand with scrutiny.
Zafar offered a brutally honest take on the current state of awards in the entertainment industry. Swerving comments related to lobbies, when asked about awards, the star asserted that winners should not have to justify their accolades – an act that defeats the purpose of receiving the award.
“Shall I tell you?” he began. “The problem is that when you get an award and have to keep justifying…saying this is why you have received the award…then…” He trailed off with a laugh, his expressions illustrating exactly how he was feeling. The actor also added, “I think such awards should be in Pakistan. What is an award? Appreciation, right? You perform appreciation wrong when you don’t award a genuine person. You create injustice in society.”
Drawing from personal experience, Zafar revealed his stint as a jury member for an undisclosed award show, where his probing questions and critical analysis led to his exclusion from future panels. His anecdote serves as a poignant reminder of the politics that often permeate award ceremonies, where personal biases and agendas can overshadow merit and talent. He revealed: “Once, I was called as a judge for some awards. No one knows who is judging, they call you months in advance. I took a stand for genuine things…I was not called back the following year.”
Zafar’s remarks come at a time when debates surrounding the credibility and transparency of awards in the entertainment industry are gaining momentum. His willingness to speak his truth to power and challenge the status quo reflects a growing sentiment among artists and industry insiders who yearn for a fairer and more equitable recognition system.
The artist was also questioned about Adnan Siddiqui’s comments about comparing women to flies. With a laugh, Zafar said, “I think he was being comedic.” As Zafar continues to captivate audiences, his commentary on awards culture serves as a timely reminder of the need for integrity and fairness in the realm of entertainment accolades.
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