Filmmaker Bilal Lashari and Actress Sajal Ali Among Honorees at 2024 Presidential Awards

The 2024 Presidential Awards ceremony, held on March 23, witnessed a gathering of distinguished individuals from various fields, including entertainment, activism, and bravery. Among the celebrated recipients were filmmaker Bilal Lashari and actress Sajal Ali, who were bestowed with prestigious honors for their remarkable contributions.

Bilal Lashari, acclaimed for his directorial prowess showcased in “The Legend of Maula Jatt,” was awarded the esteemed Sitara-i-Imtiaz. Riding high on the success of his recent venture, Lashari’s talent has left an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape. His accolade garnered widespread praise and congratulations, with industry peers expressing joy and admiration for his achievement.

Ammara Hikmat, producer of “The Legend of Maula Jatt,” took to Instagram to extend her heartfelt congratulations to Lashari, referring to him as a “superstar” deserving of the accolade. Mirza Gohar Rasheed, who portrayed a memorable role in the film, echoed the sentiment, lauding Lashari’s accomplishment as a proud moment for the entire team.

In another moment of recognition, actress Sajal Ali was honored with the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz, marking a significant milestone in her burgeoning career. Expressing gratitude for the prestigious recognition, Ali reflected on her journey in the industry, acknowledging the unwavering support of her

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Adnan Siddiqui was conferred with the “esteemed Pride of Performance award.” Taking to Instagram, he penned a lengthy note of gratitude. “As I sit down to write this note of thanks, I am overwhelmed with emotions. The journey to receiving the esteemed Pride of Performance award has been nothing short of extraordinary, and it has been a privilege to share it with you,” stated the beloved star.

Reflecting on his journey, he furthered, “Today, as I stand here with this esteemed award, I want you to know that it belongs to you as much as it does to me. It’s a testament to the enduring bond we share, and to your faith in my abilities.”

However, not all is well within the infrastructure of the awards. Sarmad Khoosat, who was supposed to receive the Sitara-i-Imtiaz, as per the initial list in August 2023, recently revealed on his Instagram handle that his name has been struck off the prestigious list. “My name has vanished from the 14 August ’23 list of Presidential Awards that everyone ‘officially’ and unofficially congratulated me for,” posted the actor and director, just days before the awards were to be officially announced.

Taking to her Instagram Stories, actor Simi Raheal shared the news and said, “Countless ‘actually’ deserving artists are repeatedly missed out/ignored just because..award? What award?” Tagging Sarmad, she added, “You are a fine, honest, credible artist, dearly loved.”

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