Lahore: The high-profile wedding of Junaid Safdar, grandson of former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, has set social media ablaze — not just for its grandeur, but for the bride’s striking choice of Indian designer ensembles.
Shanze Ali Rohail, the bride, turned heads during the mehendi ceremony in a heavily embroidered lehenga by renowned Indian designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee. For the main wedding nikah, she opted for a regal red saree crafted by Tarun Tahiliani, featuring intricate Mughal-inspired floral zardozi work, geometric motifs, appliqué tulle borders, and a jamawar-inspired blouse. Paired with a diamond choker, a large emerald necklace, a traditional red ghunghat, chooda bangles, and classic bridal makeup, Shanze looked every bit the royal bride.
While many praised her elegant and sophisticated appearance, the decision to wear Indian couture sparked heated discussions across Pakistani social platforms. Some users celebrated it as a matter of personal fashion choice and global style influence, while others questioned why prominent Pakistani designers were overlooked for such a high-profile family event. Comments like “Why send money to India?” and calls to support local talent dominated several threads.
Junaid, son of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif and Captain (retd) Muhammad Safdar Awan, wore a classic cream sherwani for the nikah. Traditionally, Pakistani brides favour lehengas or shararas, making the red saree a bold and somewhat unexpected departure that added to the online frenzy.
The wedding, held in Lahore amid much fanfare, once again highlighted the enduring cross-border appeal of Indian craftsmanship — even in politically charged times — while exposing the complex emotions tied to fashion, identity, and national pride.