The Lux Style Awards 2018: A Celebration of Pakistani Glamour and a Moment of Controversy

Pakistan’s entertainment industry, much like any other around the globe, thrives on glitz, glamour, and a healthy dose of drama. And what better platform to showcase this potent mix than the annual Lux Style Awards (LSAs)? Established in 2002, these awards have become synonymous with recognizing excellence in Pakistani fashion, music, film, and television.

The year 2018 saw the LSAs embroiled in a controversy that went beyond the usual backstage gossip. At the heart of the storm was Yasser Hussain, a talented actor known for his versatile performances and charming screen presence. He had been nominated for Best Actor (Film) for his role in the critically acclaimed film “Laal Kabootar.”

Now, here’s where things get interesting. The LSAs traditionally feature musical performances by leading artists. This year, however, Yasser Hussain was also invited to perform a musical act. This decision wasn’t met with universal applause. Some industry veterans and a segment of the public questioned why an actor, albeit a talented one, would be chosen for a performance slot typically reserved for singers or musicians.

The ensuing debate highlighted a fundamental tension within the Pakistani entertainment industry: the blurring lines between acting and musical performance. While some argued that Hussain’s inclusion celebrated his multi-faceted talent, others saw it as a deviation from established norms and a potential dilution of the award ceremony’s focus.

To understand the controversy better, let’s delve into the context surrounding Yasser Hussain’s career:

• Rise to Fame: Hussain began his acting journey with theatre productions before transitioning to television dramas. He quickly gained recognition for his natural charisma and ability to embody diverse characters.
• Film Debut: His film debut in “Laal Kabootar” cemented his status as a rising star. The movie, a gritty crime thriller set in Karachi, showcased Hussain’s ability to deliver emotionally charged performances.

The controversy surrounding Hussain’s performance at the LSAs reflected deeper societal conversations about:

• Cross-Disciplinary Talent: Should actors be encouraged to explore musical avenues, or should they stick to their primary domain?
• Tradition vs Innovation: Are award ceremonies meant to uphold established norms, or embrace change and experimentation?

The 2018 LSAs ultimately saw Hussain deliver a well-received performance. However, the controversy surrounding his inclusion sparked a much-needed conversation about the evolving nature of talent and the need for greater fluidity within the entertainment industry.

Consequences of the Controversy:

While the immediate fallout was limited to debates on social media and within industry circles, the controversy had lasting implications:

In conclusion, the 2018 Lux Style Awards served as a microcosm of the dynamism and occasional turbulence that characterize Pakistan’s entertainment industry. Yasser Hussain’s performance, while initially controversial, ultimately contributed to a broader dialogue about artistic expression and the evolving definition of talent. The incident serves as a reminder that even within seemingly established structures, there is always room for innovation, debate, and the celebration of individual creativity.