PISA 2021: A Star-Studded Night Strengthens the Awards Show’s Reputation Despite Controversies
KARACHI: The second edition of the Pakistan International Screen Awards (PISA) took place last weekend at the Sheraton Dubai, attracting a host of prominent figures from the Pakistani entertainment industry. Dubai, often regarded as a second home for many Pakistanis and Indians, provided a fitting backdrop for an event that has become synonymous with both celebration and controversy.
The lead-up to the awards was marked by typical pre-event disputes among organizers, who debated details ranging from fittings to styling until the last minute. However, these challenges did not hinder the event’s success.
As the red carpet was prepared at the luxurious Madinat Jumeirah, one organizer was heard mentioning that the makeup artists and stylists were en route. PISA 2021 commenced and concluded on time, a notable improvement from the previous year, with celebrities arriving as early as 7 PM. The red carpet, however, turned into a chaotic scene, as ticketed attendees had limited access to interact with the stars.
One actor, while posing for photos, expressed his apologies for the wait, indicating the overwhelming demand for selfies from fans. As the evening progressed, the stars, press, and organizers moved to dinner, where fans continued to gather in large numbers. One actor humorously remarked about the challenges of dining amidst fan interactions, highlighting the duality of celebrity life.
The Highs
Crisp Script
Yasir Hussain and Vasay Chaudhry, known for their dynamic onstage presence, hosted the event with impressive comedic timing and chemistry. Their engaging script and interactions with fellow actors added a lively atmosphere to the evening. The hosting duo’s performance was a refreshing change from previous years, enhancing the overall experience for attendees.
Settling Feuds
The Pakistani entertainment industry often portrays itself as a close-knit family, yet conflicts are not uncommon. This year, notable feuds were addressed publicly. Ali Azmat and Ahmed Ali Butt, who had previously clashed over comments made about Butt’s grandmother, were seen reconciling at the event. Butt was later chosen to present Azmat with the Rockstar of the Decade award, receiving enthusiastic applause from the audience.
Another reconciliation occurred when Faryal Mehmood announced Sonya Hussyn’s first award win. The two, who had previously exchanged unflattering remarks, made amends onstage, showcasing a united front.
Memorable Performances
The event kicked off with high-energy performances by Sheheryar Munawar and Mehwish Hayat. Hayat’s dance number “Chhirya” captivated the audience, followed by Munawar’s popular tracks. Their well-choreographed routines set a vibrant tone for the evening.
The performances continued with a soulful skit by the star of “Raqeeb Se,” followed by a duet that impressed many attendees. Umair Jaswal’s energetic performance also contributed to the lively atmosphere.
Sajjad Ali’s Epic Finale
Sajjad Ali’s performance was highly anticipated, with the artist expressing excitement about his medley of new and classic songs. His finale, featuring the crowd-pleaser “Mahiwal,” energized the audience, prompting many to join in the celebration. Videos of the performance quickly circulated on social media, highlighting the event’s success.
The Lows
Atrocious Lip-Syncs
Despite the overall success of the event, some performances fell short of expectations. Ali Azmat’s much-anticipated act was marred by poor lip-syncing, disappointing fans who expected his usual high-energy presence.
Poor SOPs
While PISA 2021 generally received positive feedback, concerns arose regarding adherence to COVID-19 safety protocols. Many attendees were seen without masks, and social distancing was largely ignored. This lack of compliance led some fans to leave the venue early, raising questions about the organizers’ commitment to safety.
The event, while improved from the previous year, faced criticism for leaving out several nominations, prompting a statement from management attributing the issue to airline cancellations. The stature of PISA continues to grow, but challenges remain in managing expectations and logistics.
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Published on 2021-11-09 12:00:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk