Pakistani actor, comedian and television host Ahmed Ali Butt has expressed disappointment over what he described as limited public and institutional recognition for his grandmother, legendary singer and actress Madam Noor Jehan, on the occasion of her 100th birth anniversary.
Ahmed shared an old black-and-white photograph of Noor Jehan on his Instagram Stories along with an emotional message questioning why the milestone had not received a larger celebration across Pakistan.
In his post, Ahmed pointed to the absence of major television tributes and public displays marking the centenary of the iconic artist.
He wrote that there had been “no tribute” and questioned the absence of a special Pakistan Television transmission, programs on other networks or even a public poster commemorating Noor Jehan’s 100th birthday.
Ahmed argued that Noor Jehan’s enduring music remains one of the clearest reminders of her enormous contribution to Pakistan’s cultural history.
He also raised broader concerns about the preservation of the country’s artistic heritage. According to Ahmed, Pakistan has struggled to properly document, protect and preserve the creative work of its celebrated artists.
His comments touched on issues including copyright protection, documentation and the safeguarding of artists’ legacies for future generations.
Ahmed said the situation reflected a broader disconnect with Pakistan’s cultural identity and questioned whether the country does enough to remember the people who made lasting contributions to its arts and entertainment industry.
He contrasted this with practices in other countries, where the work and lives of prominent artists can be preserved through biographies, academic research, university courses, films and cultural projects.
Calling the situation “sad and heartbreaking,” Ahmed said Pakistan should maintain a stronger connection with its artistic history and the figures who helped shape it.
For Ahmed, the occasion was also deeply personal. He ended his message by wishing his grandmother a happy birthday, referring to her affectionately as “Nano.”
The Instagram tribute also included Noor Jehan’s popular Punjabi song “Sano Nehar Wale Pul Te Bula Ke,” adding a personal and nostalgic element to his remembrance.
Noor Jehan remains one of the most influential figures in the history of South Asian music and cinema. Her career spanned decades, and her songs continue to be heard by audiences across Pakistan and beyond.
Ahmed Ali Butt is the son of singer Zil-e-Huma and the maternal grandson of Noor Jehan, making the centenary particularly significant for his family.
His comments have also drawn attention to a wider conversation about how Pakistan commemorates its legendary performers and preserves their contributions for future generations.
