Uorfi Javed who? HSY believes in reciprocating the Indian industry's attitude towards Pakistan

'I think we should give them the attention they give us, which is almost nonexistent,' says the designer

Pakistani fashion luminary and television host, Hassan Sheheryar Yasin (HSY), made a thought-provoking statement during a recent appearance on Public Demand with Mohsin Abbas Haider. During the conversation, HSY expressed his relief in not recognising Indian influencer Uorfi Javed, highlighting his focus on Pakistan's entertainment industry.

In response to queries about Uorfi, HSY admitted his lack of awareness about her, emphasising his limited knowledge about current developments in the Indian entertainment sphere. Whilst the comedians on the panel were joking about the influencer, HSY asked, "Who is she?" Mohsin described her as someone in the race to be an actor, who wears revealing clothes. The designer replied, "I, surprisingly, know very little about what's happening in the Indian industry. Unfortunately."

Continuing forth, HSY remarked, "I think we should give them the attention they give us, which is almost nonexistent. I concentrate a lot on our Pakistani industry. I think to get respect, give respect. If someone isn't giving us that respect, why should we?" As a response, Mohsin mentioned acclaimed Pakistani artists honoured in India, like Atif Aslam, Mehdi Hassan, and Noor Jehan, recognising HSY among those representing Pakistan on international platforms. Reflecting on the historical exchange of talent between the two countries, HSY expressed disappointment with the existing political policies in India, restricting collaborations with Pakistani artists.

"There was a time when all our celebrities used to work there, and their people used to come here," stated the designer. "I am not talking about the people or the country. I think the political policies they have currently, where they don't wish to work with people, that [is what I take issue with]. Artist to artist, I have no problem. And I don't think there should ever be an artist-to-artist problem. When a voice arose from there to not work with us, solely because we're Pakistani, I have a huge problem with that. I am only talking about respect. Give respect, get respect." 

HSY's stance underscored the importance of mutual respect and recognition in fostering healthy cross-border artistic relationships, focusing on honouring talent beyond geopolitical boundaries.

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