The white part of our flag is not only symbolic of the contributions that minorities have made to Pakistan’s uplift, but how they will always remain integral to our status as a nation at all times. This is also true for our entertainment industry as well.
Pakistani showbiz is replete with examples of how people from other faiths have gone on to make a name for themselves in history. Pakistani Christians and Hindus in particular, have made enduring contributions in this industry.
With Pakistan Day fast approaching, there’s no time like the present to remember Pakistani superstars who belong to minority faiths, and their stellar work.
1. Shabnam
Everyone knows of Shabnam and how iconic she is to the Pakistani film industry. Following her marriage to Robin Ghosh, she converted to Christianity.
2. Saleem Raza
Saleem is the voice behind Ay Dil Kisi Ki Yaad Mein Hota Hai Beqarar Kyn, Jane Baharan, and many other hits. He is also the first vocalist to sing Shah-e-Madina, an ode to the Holy Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W). He belonged to the Christian faith.
3. Ashar Azeem
Ashar is a film and television director, actor, writer and former civil services officer who made Dhuwan. Ashar Azeem later made a comeback in Pakistan the political expose movie Maalik.
4. A. Nayyer
Arther Nayyer is one of Pakistan’s most famous playback singers. The Pakistani Christian is the protegee of famous singer Ahmed Rushdi.
5. Anita Campher
Anita Campher plays pivotal roles even today with appearances in Meri Jaan, Ishq Gumshuda, Manng, Aseerzadi, Nazr e Badh, etc. This acting veteran is Christian.
6. Ariene Parveen
This songstress lent her voice to Pakistani films in the 1960s.
7. Benjamin Sisters
This musical trio comprised of three sisters, all of whom were vocalists.
The Christian ladies ruled the Pakistani music industry in the late 1970s and early 1980s. They lent their voices to many national songs Iss Parcham Kay Saye Taley hum Ek Hain, Ay Roohe Quaid Aaj Ke din ham Tujh Sey Wada Kartey Hain, Khayal Rakhna Khayal Rakhna, etc.
8. Rachel Gill
This Pakistani model and actress is known for role as Razia Sultana in her debut film Saya e Khuda e Zuljulaal. She is a proud Christian Pakistani.
9. Sunita Marshal
This Christian model and actress is known for her role in Mera Saain. She’s married to actor Hassan Ahmed.
10. Zoe Viccaji
This songstress has the most diverse background. She has a Christian father and Parsi mother.
We’re thankful for her track Ishq Kinara, her collaboration with Chitrali singer Irfan Taj for Ashiqi Angar and her collab with Moroo titled Hum.
11. Azeka Daniel
The talented actress managed to make a mark while sharing the screen with Saba Qamar. She plays the role of Haya in Cheekh.
