Pakistani’s worldwide have an immense sense of pride and rightfully so. Strong and inspirational leaders such as Malala Yousafzai and the prime minister himself, Imran Khan, have really put this country on the map. Another source that has sparked buzz about Pakistan in recent years is it’s film and television industry. Pakistani entertainment has recently bloomed in the past decade. People around the world are really starting to recognize the talent Pakistan has to offer, and a lot of this comes from the exposure they’re finally receiving and the quality of content they’re creating. For example, their TV serials, in particular, are much shorter than other countries- limiting to 25-30 episodes per series. Even though there’s less content, it’s far more impactful. Quality over Quantity. These shows tackle real life issues within the family and community. They’re also really starting to center around women and women empowerment. Dramas such as Udaari and Dar Si Jati Hai Sila put women at the forefront, and it’s helped to expand the audience because the content in these dramas are a lot more real and relatable. In addition, streaming services, such as Netflix, have really given the exposure Pakistan needs to become a real game changer for entertainment. Not only do the people who live in Pakistan get to enjoy it’s content, but Pakistani’s around the world can now partake in being an audience member from the comfort of their homes.
The 7th Kashmir Hum Awards took place in Houston, TX this year. Houston is home to over 100,000 Pakistani’s, so the network felt it was right to have Houston host such a big night for Pakistan in such a Pakistani enriched area. Houston’s diversity and richness in culture really make it stand out from other cities. So it was no surprise that one of Pakistan’s biggest nights for entertainment was held right here at home. In the past, the Hum Awards have taken place in prominent cities such as Karachi, Dubai and Toronto. The Hum network itself is a fast growing force that's sweeping Pakistan and expediting to put this country on the map. This year, the awards were especially important because the network made a statement and stood with the people of Kashmir by renaming the awards “The 7th Kashmir Hum Awards." They were able to show their support while simultaneously raising awareness of the socio-political climate of Kashmir.
I got the exclusive opportunity to attend this year’s Kashmir Hum Awards thanks to Zashko Entertainment. I was able to capture some amazing moments inside the show and on the red carpet. Getting to witness such a historical night is something I’ll never forget. As a Pakistani American, it’s a bit surreal to see my two worlds collide. Nonetheless, I was proud to see my culture painted all over my city that night.
Here are some of my favorite red carpet moments!
The decor inside the VIP room was dreamy and romantic. The room was lit by candles, and the water fountain in the center along with the hanging flowers really created a warm vibe and a soft atmosphere.
Ali Rehman Khan, one of the hosts of the show
Just a few stunning actresses dazzling the red carpet!
Top Row: Amar Khan, Mawra Hocane, Kinza Hashmi
Bottom Row: Ayesha Omar, Yumna Zaidi, Sanam Jung
Let's not forget some of the dashing men!
Top Row: Adnan Siddiqui, Imran Ashraf, Uzair Hasan, Usama Khan
Bottom Row: Mikaal Zufiqar, Nabeel Zuberi
Reema Khan looking super glam with the digital host of the night Uzair Hasan
Top to Bottom:
1) Pictured: Shayan Khan, Komal Farooqi and Mikaal Zulfiqar chatting with Uzair Hasan
2) Pictured: Nabeel Zuberi, Mikaal Zulfiqar, Ayesha Omar, Imran Ashraf, Mooroo in a fun group pic
3) Pictured: Muneeb Butt taking selfies with some fans
Zaid Ali and Ahmed Ali Butt
Some of my favorite looks of the night!
Left to Right: Komal Farooqi, Zeba Bakhtiar, Hajra Yamin & Asma Nabeel, Hania Amir
The cutest Sami Khan joking around with Ali Safina
Just a few more pics!
Top Row: Farhan Saeed & Urwa Hocane, CEO of Hum Network- Duraid Qureshi, Yasir Hussain & Iqra Aziz
Bottom Row: Mikaal Zulfiqar & Ayesha Omar, Zahid Ahmed, Noman Ijaz, Shayan Khan & Komal Farooqi along with Uzair Hasan
In my opinion, the show was phenomenal. There were riveting performances and hilarious banter between not only the hosts Mikaal Zulfiqar and Ali Rehman Khan, but the other stars as well. It was an entertaining night full of excitement, love and Pakistani pride. Here are just a few pictures from inside the show!
As a Pakistani born and raised in America, I've never gotten the opportunity to actually visit Pakistan, so being in an arena with thousands of Pakistani's was a special moment not only for me but I'm sure for everyone else who got to witness this incredible night. It was an unforgettable show, and my respect and admiration for Pakistan has only increased. Pakistan and the Hum network made history holding this event in Houston and I can't wait to see where they go from here! They truly are a force to be reckoned with!
-love Sof