(Compiled by: Sara Mathews)
In the wake of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, the Indian government has blocked the Instagram accounts of several prominent Pakistani celebrities. The move, implemented on Friday, was justified on the grounds of alleged provocative content. Seven such notable figures affected by the ban include:
Renowned for his powerful vocal belting technique, Atif Aslam is a celebrated Pakistani playback singer, songwriter, composer, and actor. He has received numerous awards, including a star on the Dubai Walk of Fame and the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz, Pakistan’s fourth-highest civilian award
Shahid Afridi is a former Pakistani cricketer and captain of the Pakistan national cricket team. He broke the record for the fastest century in ODI cricket against Sri Lanka. He made headlines by scoring the fastest century in ODI history during only his second ODI match. In 2010, he received the Pride of Performance Award from the Government of Pakistan
Mohammad Babar Azam, a Pakistani international cricketer and former captain of the Pakistani cricket team, has established himself as one of the most consistent performers in international cricket. He scored 122 (59) against South Africa in his maiden T20I century, the highest individual score in T20Is by any Pakistani cricketer
An acclaimed actor, producer, screenwriter, and singer, Fawad Khan has earned accolades in both Pakistan and India. His notable works include 'Khoobsurat', 'Kapoor & Sons', and 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil'. He has won multiple awards, including a Filmfare Award, two Lux Style Awards, and six Hum Awards
Hania Aamir is a beloved star in Pakistan’s entertainment industry. A popular actress, influencer, and YouTuber, she has appeared in films such as 'Na Maloom Afraad 2' (2017), 'Parwaaz Hai Junoon' (2018), and the romantic drama 'Ishqiya' (2020)
One of Pakistan’s most celebrated and highest-paid actresses, Mahira Khan, has acted in 'Humsafar', 'Bin Roye', 'Ho Mann Jahaan', 'Quaid-e-Azam Zindabad', and 'The Legend of Maula Jatt'. She has won multiple honours, including seven Lux Style Awards and Hum Awards
A multi-talented artist, Ali Zafar is known for his work as a singer-songwriter, actor, model, and painter. He gained popularity through hit songs like 'Channo' and 'Mere Brother Ki Dulhan' and starred in films such as 'Tere Bin Laden', 'Mere Brother Ki Dulhan', 'Chashme Baddoor', and 'Dear Zindagi'ere Bin Laden, Mere Brother Ki Dulhan, Chashme Baddoor, and Dear Zindagi