Shahzad Nawaz Sparks Debate With Suggestion to Remove Quaid-e-Azam’s Picture From Pakistani Currency
Pakistani actor and podcast host Shahzad Nawaz has stirred discussion online after sharing a controversial opinion about the presence of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s image on Pakistani currency notes. His remarks came during a recent podcast conversation where he discussed corruption, national values, and public behavior in Pakistan.
The veteran actor’s statement has quickly attracted attention on social media, with many Pakistanis debating the symbolism of national figures on currency and the country’s ongoing struggle against corruption.
Shahzad Nawaz Shares His View on Currency Notes
Shahzad Nawaz, known for acclaimed dramas such as Parizaad, Badshah Begum, Mein, Shanas, Humrahi, and Dr Bahu, recently hosted actor Ali Safina on his podcast for NJ Spotlight.
During the discussion, Ali Safina spoke about how governments and regimes often reshape public narratives by changing symbols, portraits, and cultural representations. He referenced instances where images of national heroes, including Quaid-e-Azam and Allama Iqbal, have been replaced or overshadowed by political figures.
The conversation then shifted toward the significance of Quaid-e-Azam’s image on Pakistan’s currency notes.
Why Shahzad Nawaz Wants the Picture Removed
Responding to Ali Safina’s comments, Shahzad Nawaz said that if the decision were in his hands, he would remove Quaid-e-Azam’s portrait from all Pakistani currency notes.
According to the actor, his reasoning was linked to widespread corruption in society. He argued that people engage in bribery, fraud, and dishonest financial practices while conducting transactions using notes that carry the image of the founder of Pakistan.
Shahzad suggested that it is disrespectful to associate the country’s founding leader with activities that contradict the values of honesty, integrity, and accountability.
His comments were intended as criticism of corruption rather than criticism of Quaid-e-Azam himself, highlighting what he sees as a contradiction between national ideals and everyday practices.
Discussion on Moral Messages Printed on Currency
During the same podcast, Shahzad Nawaz also reflected on changes made to Pakistani currency over the years.
He recalled that during a previous era, currency notes prominently displayed the message that earning a lawful livelihood is equivalent to an act of worship. According to him, the visibility of that statement was later reduced.
The actor used this example to emphasize how national messaging and public values evolve over time, often reflecting changing political priorities and social attitudes.
Social Media Reacts to the Statement
The statement has generated mixed reactions among social media users. Some viewers agreed with Shahzad Nawaz’s criticism of corruption and viewed his comments as symbolic. Others felt that removing Quaid-e-Azam’s image from currency is not the solution and that greater focus should be placed on strengthening accountability and governance.
The debate has once again brought issues such as corruption, ethical conduct, national identity, and civic responsibility into the spotlight.
Final Thoughts
Shahzad Nawaz’s remarks have triggered a wider conversation about the values Pakistan represents and how those values are reflected in daily life. While his proposal remains a personal opinion, it has successfully sparked discussion about corruption, national symbols, and the legacy of Quaid-e-Azam.
As public debate continues, many believe the real challenge lies not in changing the faces printed on currency notes but in promoting honesty, transparency, and integrity across society. The source of this news is Reviewit.