The marriage of Junaid Safdar, son of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and grandson of former Pakistani PM Nawaz Sharif, has set the internet abuzz as the wedding festivities in Lahore (held from January 16–18, 2026) sparked a heated debate over cross-border fashion choices.
The Outfits: Sabyasachi & Tarun Tahiliani
The bride, Shanzay Ali Rohail, drew widespread attention for choosing two iconic Indian designers for her high-profile wedding:
- The Mehendi: She wore an emerald green heritage lehenga by Sabyasachi Mukherjee, featuring intricate threadwork, contrasting panels, and a heavy gold border. She paired it with forest green and rose-colored dupattas.
- The Wedding: For the main ceremony, Shanzay opted for a heavy red saree by Tarun Tahiliani. Her look was completed with a statement diamond choker featuring a massive emerald center-piece.
The “Thunder-Stealing” Controversy
While the bride’s choices were scrutinized, the groom’s mother, Maryam Nawaz, became a separate viral sensation.
- The Look: Maryam opted for a yellow and powder-orange lehenga for the mehendi and a mint-green ensemble for the wedding.
- The Backlash: Critics on Pakistani social media accused her of trying to “overshadow” the bride. Viral comments labeled her “self-obsessed,” with some jokingly asking why the “Nani Amma” (grandmother) was dressed like a bride herself. Supporters, however, defended her, noting her long-standing reputation as a style icon.
Online Reaction: Divided Opinions
The debate reflects deeper cultural and political sensitivities in South Asia:
- Critical Voices: Many users criticized the family for “giving taxes to India” and failing to support Pakistan’s own world-class fashion industry. Comments like “Very mid. Pakistani designers could have made something more representative” were common.
- Defensive Voices: Others argued that fashion should transcend borders, pointing out that Indian celebrities frequently wear Pakistani designers like Faraz Manan. One viral post noted, “It’s 2026, can we all grow up and stop criticizing brides for what they wear?”
Wedding Fast Facts
| Detail | Information |
| Groom | Junaid Safdar (Son of Maryam Nawaz) |
| Bride | Shanzay Ali Rohail (Granddaughter of PML-N leader Rohail Asghar) |
| Nikah Date | Saturday, January 17, 2026 |
| Valima Date | Sunday, January 18, 2026 (Jati Umra, Lahore) |
| Guest List | PM Shehbaz Sharif, Nawaz Sharif, and top PDM leaders |