Pakistani actress Areeba Habib claims industry awards are “Bought”

KARACHI: Pakistani model and actress Areeba Habib has made a bold claim, alleging that awards within the entertainment industry are often purchased. She stated that for her, the true reward for an actor is not a trophy but their bank account.

Habib recently shared her candid opinion on the value of awards during a television interview. When asked about their importance, she explained, “When I was modeling, I used to prioritize awards, but after entering the world of acting, they no longer hold any meaning for me.”

The actress asserted that an award is “nothing” in her eyes. “The real award is your bank account,” she said, adding that the genuine respect and praise an actor receives after they leave a set is what truly matters.

Habib also highlighted the plight of senior artists in the industry. “We have many senior actors whose shelves are filled with awards, but they don’t have money for their medical treatment,” she explained. “Hearing their stories brings me to tears.”

She went on to state, with a laugh and a knowing tone, that if she ever wanted an award and had the extra money, she would simply “buy one from anywhere.” However, she quickly clarified that she does not want such awards, implying that they lack genuine merit. Her comments suggest a deeper dissatisfaction with the criteria and integrity of the awards system in the Pakistani entertainment industry.