PESHAWAR: Prominent figures from Peshawar’s literary, cultural, social, and intellectual circles have called for a transparent and merit-based mechanism for the distribution of Pakistan’s civil awards. They urged the provincial government to ensure that deserving artists and cultural personalities receive due recognition. The demand was made during a tribute ceremony organised by China Window Peshawar in honor of veteran artists Sajida Gul and Syed Sardar Badshah.
Resolution Adopted for Expert Committee
Participants unanimously adopted a resolution calling on Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Chief Minister Sohail Afridi and Chief Secretary Shahab Ali Shah to establish an expert committee. This committee should comprise professionals from the fields of literature, arts, and culture to recommend nominations for civil awards strictly on merit. The resolution noted that artists and cultural figures in the province have long faced neglect and unfair treatment, resulting in many deserving individuals being overlooked while less qualified candidates receive national honors.
Veteran Artists Share Their Struggles
Speaking at the event, Badshah highlighted his extensive artistic career, revealing that he had performed in more than 1,000 television programs and 1,200 radio productions. Although he was awarded the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz 28 years ago, he said he had not been considered for any further national recognition since then. He expressed concern that while artists from other provinces often receive multiple awards, many accomplished artists from K-P continue to be ignored. Veteran actress Gul also voiced disappointment over what she described as the indifference of the provincial Culture Department. She said she devoted 25 years of her life to radio and television and appeared in hundreds of drama productions, yet had never been nominated for a civil award. She warned that continued neglect of artists would discourage future generations from pursuing careers in arts and literature, ultimately damaging the province’s cultural heritage.
Celebration of Achievements
The ceremony served as a platform to celebrate the achievements of the two veteran performers while reviving memories of a golden era in Pakistani arts and entertainment. Badshah shared experiences from his professional journey, discussing his work in acting, public service, organisational development, youth empowerment, welfare initiatives, and international engagements. He also reflected on the challenges faced by artists and emphasised the need for greater unity within the artistic community. Gul recalled her early days at Pakistan Television, where she initially sought employment but eventually found success as an actress, building a distinguished career spanning more than two decades.
Tributes and Future Plans
France-based Pakistani social figure Raja Afrasiab Khan paid tribute to both artists for their outstanding services to the cultural sector. On behalf of China Window, Peshawar commemorative shields were presented to Badshah and Gul in recognition of their lifelong contributions. Participants interacted with the veteran artists, sought insights into their careers, and expressed appreciation for their enduring role in promoting arts and culture. Organisers announced that similar monthly programs would be held to connect younger generations with the province’s distinguished artists and cultural icons.
