KARACHI: Two high-profile weddings recently took Pakistan’s social media by storm. The Talpurs’ wedding made headlines for its star-studded guest list, which included Atif Aslam, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, and Abida Parveen. Meanwhile, Nawaz Sharif’s wedding also gained attention for its distinctive fashion, with stunning outfits worn by the bride’s and groom’s families. The bride, Shanzay Ali Rohail, was seen wearing outfits by renowned Indian designers Sabyasachi Mukherjee and Tarun Tahiliani for her Mehndi and Barat events. Additionally, reports from some social media pages suggest that Ayesha Talpur also wore an ensemble by Indian designer Manish Malhotra for her wedding.
Recently, renowned Pakistani actor Khaled Anam voiced his confusion regarding the choice of Indian designers for elite brides, particularly given the ongoing ban on trade between the two countries.
Speaking on the matter, Khaled shared, “I recently heard that in two royal weddings in Punjab and Sindh, the brides wore outfits by Indian designers. There’s no harm in it, and I think trade should be open. However, we recently had a conflict, and there were anti-statements from both countries. My question is: is trade now officially open? Maybe they wore one or two outfits—I heard Manish Malhotra’s name as well. We also have excellent designers like Umar Sayeed and Bunto Kazmi. I’m not someone who is into designer wear; I prefer simple clothes. But my question is, is it allowed for everyone? Can we buy these clothes, and how were they purchased? Were they bought through online means? We need to know whether the ban has been lifted or if these embargoes only apply to the common man while trade is allowed for a select few. I’m confused.”
Social media users have expressed similar sentiments, suggesting that the restrictions in Pakistan seem to apply mostly to ordinary citizens while the elite continue to enjoy privileges.
