It is no mystery that most Pakistani celebrities are not as world-renowned as they deserve to be. And even those who are famous, mostly had to make a name for themselves on Hollywood and western media. Even then, many Pakistani-origin actors like Jameela Jamil and Kumail Nanjiani often tend to be mistaken as Indians.
Perhaps its a matter of bad PR, or the western audiences’ bias at play, but there are some Pakistani celebs who are globally known for their work in showbiz.
Hollywood or not, there are Pakistani artists who have a global presence because of their talent and hard work.
Here is a list of globally acclaimed Pakistani artists that didn’t have to make it to Hollywood to achieve worldwide recognition.
1. Fawad Khan
Long before Fawad Khan was cast in Bollywood’s Khubsoorat and Kapoor & Sons, India was already in love with him. People knew him for his performance in Humsafar and Zindagi Gulzar Hai.
2. Mahira Khan
Pakistan’s first attendee at the Cannes Film Festival, Mahira Khan is loved across borders for Humsafar. She was then cast in Shahrukh Khan’s Raees.
3. Shaan Shahid
This Pakistani film veteran is an evergreen shark. Shaan has not once signed on for a role in a foreign film. People love him for his Pakistani works Khuda Kay Liye, Waar, O21 and now his upcoming Zarrar.
4. Ali Zafar
Most people know that with the exception of Teefa in Trouble, Ali Zafar’s acting career has been mostly based in Bollywood from Tere Bin Laden to Kill Dil. What few people know is that he worked on the soundtrack of Hollywood’s Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps (2010).
5. Hamza Ali Abbasi
Not only are his films Waar and Jawani Phir Nahi acclaimed, but Hamza Ali Abbasi is also famous for voicing Baba Bandooq in Burka Avenger. His drama serials Pyare Afzal and Mann Mayal are famous all around.
6. Humayun Saeed
This actor is known for films that challenge Pakistani stereotypes. Jawani Phir Nahi Ani, Punjab Nahi Jaun Gi are his famous works. His role in Waar and Main Hoon Shahid Afridi are what fans love him for.
7. Atif Aslam
While his records sell out globally, Atif Aslam is also loved for his cameo in Bol. He’s the most sensational pop-singer in the sub-continent.
ALSO READ
Pakistani Celebrities Extend A Warm Welcome to International Cricketers
8. Humaima Malik
The actress that made her debut with Bol started off as a model. She later went to Bollywood for Raja Natwarlal. The actress’s name remains with Shoaib Mansoor’s Zainab. Her recent success includes the remake of Arth: The Final Destination with her as the lead.
9. Javed Sheikh
This showbiz veteran has graced almost every era of Pakistani cinema. His cinematic conquests include over three and a half decades in film. Javed Sheikh is famous for Na Maloom Afraad, Om Shanti Om and Khulay Asmaan Kay Neechay.
10. Imran Abbas
Imran Abbas is famous for Abdullah: The Final Witness, Jaanisaar and Creature. He was also offered the lead in Aashiqui 2 but when he didn’t sign the project, it went to Aditya Roy Kapoor.
These are but just a handful of Pakistani celebrities whose work and efforts speak for themselves. Do you know of any other actors who deserve to be in this list? Let us know in the comments below!
Bilal Abbas One of best actor