The prestigious 2024 Presidential Awards ceremony unfolded on the momentous occasion of March 23, celebrating outstanding contributions across various fields. Among the distinguished recipients, filmmaker Bilal Lashari stood tall, adorned with the coveted Sitara-i-Imtiaz. His name graced the initial list of 694 individuals, a testament to his remarkable achievements in the world of cinema.
Lashari, riding high on the success of his magnum opus, The Legend of Maula Jatt, has consistently demonstrated his mettle through high-impact projects. The film, starring Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan, captivated audiences with its grandeur, cinematography, and powerful performances. Lashari’s directorial prowess left viewers spellbound, and the recognition of his work with the Sitara-i-Imtiaz is a proud moment for the entire team behind this cinematic triumph.
On Instagram, the film’s producer, Ammara Hikmat, hailed Lashari as “a star for a superstar.” She shared an image of the recipient, expressing her joy and pride. Lashari, in turn, reshared her story, thanking her for making this award possible. The camaraderie between colleagues-turned-friends was evident as they celebrated this milestone together.
Hamza Ali Abbasi, another prominent figure associated with the film, rejoiced in Lashari’s honor. He exclaimed, “Sitara e Imtiaz!!” and extended warm wishes to the entire team of The Legend of Maula Jatt. The film’s success resonated as a collective achievement, and the sentiment was echoed by many.
While the film featured an ensemble cast, it was Gohar Rasheed who breathed life into the menacing character of Maakha Nath. His portrayal of rage and madness elevated The Legend of Maula Jatt to unprecedented heights. Rasheed’s performance left an indelible mark on Pakistani cinema, and viewers lauded his portrayal of the unforgettable villain. In a recent interview, Rasheed emphasized the patience and dedication required to bring Maakha to life. His commitment to the role spanned a decade, making it a defining moment in his career.
Apart from Lashari, other notable recipients included Sajal Ali, who received the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz. Ali expressed her gratitude, acknowledging the honor bestowed upon her. However, not all was smooth within the award infrastructure. Sarmad Khoosat, initially slated to receive the Sitara-i-Imtiaz, discovered that his name had been removed from the list. The situation sparked discussions about deserving artists and the award process.
As the nation celebrated Pakistan Day, these awards underscored the immense talent and dedication within the country. From cinematic brilliance to acts of courage, the honorees exemplified excellence in their respective domains. The 2024 Presidential Awards will be remembered as a day when stars shone brightly and their contributions were etched into the annals of history.