A puzzle with a missing piece. That’s how Pakistan’s entertainment industry felt until now. But here’s the news – the government has stepped up to complete that puzzle.
As Pakistan marked its 76th year of independence, a game-changing event unfolded – the National Icon Award 2023 ceremony. This exciting occasion went down in Lahore on August 12th and has big implications for the entertainment world.
What’s the big news? The government has officially recognized the film sector as a legitimate industry. Imagine artists, filmmakers, and the entire entertainment community celebrating this milestone just before Independence Day – that’s huge.
Enter Marriyum Aurangzeb, the Federal Minister of Information & Broadcasting, who’s the driving force behind reshaping the entertainment industry. Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif also joined the party, acknowledging the efforts. Hosting duties were handled by Juggun Kazim and Sami Khan, while stars from the film and drama world were in full attendance.
Bold Steps for Progress
Aurangzeb took center stage to unveil the government’s new policies set to revitalize the entertainment sector. Here’s what’s cooking:
- Preserving History: The government teamed up with Sultana Siddiqui and HUM TV to create a book chronicling the history of Pakistani cinema – a true tribute.
- Fair Pay for Artists: The pay structure for PTV workers got a makeover, ensuring actors are compensated fairly according to market standards.
- Digital Treasures: Brace yourselves for Ptvflix and National Radio Pakistan Awaz Khazana. These digital platforms will safeguard the creative works of artists from radio, TV, and cinema.
Constructing the Future
But wait, there’s more:
- Energizing PTV: Plans include creating a virtual studio, upgrading PTV’s academy and studios for arts broadcasting, and modernizing equipment.
- Smart Radio: Think AI-based monitoring and archiving for various media – digital, print, and more.
- New Studios: Get ready for twelve top-notch studios.
- Empowering PEMRA: They’re defining self-regulation by tackling misinformation and disinformation.
- Going Global: A whopping 5.5 billion DRM project is connecting with 52 countries.
- Fresh SRBC Space: A brand-new building with 150 rooms and virtual studios is in place.
- Boosting Skills: The Information Service Academy is getting a makeover with new modules and university affiliations.
Honoring the Trailblazers
Health cards are extending a helping hand to industry stalwarts. Five health cards were given to artists who’ve left their mark:
- Saleem Haider: Renowned music director.
- Shama Mumtaz: Respected actress.
- Bushra Sadiq: The singer with a golden voice.
- Ustad Jaffar Hussain: A legendary musician.
- Asad Abbas: Folk and classical singer.
Shining a Spotlight on Icons
A round of applause for these iconic figures who clinched the Icon Awards 2023:
- Humayun Saeed
- Fawad Khan
- Bushra Ansari
- Bilal Lashari
- Wahaj Ali
- Nadia Jamil
- Resham
- Mawra Hussain
- Mohib Mirza
- Sanam Saeed
- Meera
- Nadeem Baig
- Vaneezah Ahmed
- Usman Peerzada
- Saba Hameed
- Rubina Ashraf
- Iffat Umar
- Ghulam Mohiuddin
- Sangeeta
- Babra Sharif
- Sultana Siddiqui
- Khalid Abbas Dar
- Ajmal Choudhary
- Hassan Askari
- Nisho
A Promising Tomorrow
With icons in the spotlight and game-changing policies, Pakistan’s entertainment world is entering a new era. This recognition isn’t just a trophy; it’s a power boost. The connection between the government and the entertainment industry is growing stronger, paving the way for fresh creativity, growth, and a more authentic representation of Pakistan’s spirit. Let’s raise a cheer for an industry that’s on the rise!
