Renowned Pakistani singer Hadiqa Kiani has been awarded the prestigious Sitara-i-Imtiaz in recognition of her outstanding services to the music industry.
The award was conferred during a dignified civil awards ceremony held at the Governor House in Lahore, where Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider Khan presented the honour on behalf of the President of Pakistan.
Sharing her emotions on Instagram, Hadiqa Kiani said she felt “extremely proud, happy and humbled” after receiving the Sitara-i-Imtiaz, adding that the moment still felt ‘unbelievable’ to her.
“It is still hard to believe that 20 years after receiving the Tamgha-i-Imtiaz, I have now been honoured with the Sitara-i-Imtiaz,” she wrote.
The singer dedicated the award to her son, fans, family members and everyone who had been part of her journey throughout the years.
“I am deeply grateful that this journey continues today with all of you,” she added.
Hadiqa Kiani also shared an interesting coincidence, revealing that she wore a red outfit during this year’s ceremony as well – the same colour she had worn two decades ago when she received the Tamgha-i-Imtiaz.
Kiani was among a wide group of Pakistanis and foreign nationals who received civil awards on Wednesday for their contributions to different sectors.