Peshawar: June 09, 2026: (China Window News): Prominent personalities from the literary, cultural, social, and intellectual circles of Peshawar emphasized the need for a transparent and impartial process in the distribution of Pakistan’s civil awards. They urged the provincial Culture Department to establish a committee comprising experts with a thorough understanding of literature, arts, and culture so that nominations for civil awards can be made strictly on merit.
A unanimous resolution was adopted during a ceremony organized by China Window to pay tribute to the services of veteran artists Syed Sardar Badshah and Sajida Gul. The resolution appealed to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi and Chief Secretary Shahab Ali Shah, stating that artists and cultural figures in the province have been subjected to unfair treatment, whether intentionally or unintentionally.
The resolution highlighted that many individuals who dedicated decades of their lives to the promotion of arts and culture are often overlooked for civil awards, while undeserving individuals receive recognition.
Speaking on the occasion, Syed Sardar Badshah said that he had performed in over 1,000 television programs and 1,200 radio programs. He received the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz 28 years ago but has never again been nominated for any national award. He noted that artists from other parts of Pakistan have received multiple honors, while deserving artists from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa continue to be ignored.
Veteran actress Sajida Gul expressed disappointment with the provincial Culture Department. She stated that she devoted 25 valuable years of her life to radio and television but has never been nominated for any award. According to her, this raises serious questions about the performance of both the provincial government and the Culture Department. She warned that if such neglect continues, the artistic community will gradually disappear and the fields of arts and literature will suffer irreparable decline.
The tribute ceremony organized by China Window was a unique initiative aimed at promoting art and culture in Peshawar. During the event, Syed Sardar Badshah shared detailed insights into his artistic career. Reflecting on various aspects of his professional journey, he said he was proud that the province had given him recognition. Besides acting, he also served in government service, contributed to organizational development, traveled to several countries, engaged in welfare activities, and worked tirelessly for the development and empowerment of youth.
He also spoke about the challenges he faced throughout his career and expressed regret over governmental indifference toward artists. He stressed the need for the artistic community to unite and take effective measures to protect its interests.
Sajida Gul recalled that she initially visited Pakistan Television in search of employment. Although she did not secure a job, she eventually became an actress and went on to perform in hundreds of dramas over a career spanning more than two decades.
Pakistani social figure Raja Afrasiab Khan, who is based in France, also paid rich tribute to the two artists for their unforgettable contributions. On behalf of China Window, he presented commemorative shields to Syed Sardar Badshah and Sajida Gul.Participants of the event interacted with the veteran artists, asked questions about their careers, and expressed their appreciation for their remarkable services to the arts.
According to the organizers, similar programs will be held every month to provide younger generations with opportunities to meet and learn from the province’s distinguished artists and cultural icons.
