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On Pakistan's 74th Independence Day, the government announced civil awards for 184 Pakistanis and foreigners in recognition of their dedicated services to the country and for displaying excellence in their respective fields, including a number of our favourite celebrities.

At the time it was decided that the awards would be handed out by President Dr Arif Alvi on Pakistan Day and on Tuesday, the stars were recognised for their tremendous contributions to the entertainment industry in Pakistan.

Here are some of the celebrities who were honoured.

Resham

"This moment in life felt like a dream, but my God fulfilled it," she said. "This isn't just a Pride of Performance medal — it is the fruit of my hard work which my God gave me the opportunity to taste."

Stars including Azfer Rehman, Nausheen Shah, Neelum Munir Khan and Hadiqa Kiyani congratulated the Toofan star for her achievements. She had earlier said that the Lux Style Awards seemed so nominal compared to Pride of Performance now.

Sakina Samo

The actor, producer and director was another recipient of the Pride of Performance Award, who called the moment wonderful. She was congratulated by fellow actors and well-wishers from the industry.

Ali Zafar

Granted the same honour was singer Ali Zafar, who was humbled at the recognition in the field of music and arts.

"I bow down my head in humility for this honour. Thank you for your prayers, support and well wishes. I pledge to do as much as I can for the arts, the artists, my country and the people," he promised.

Humayun Saeed

The Meray Paas Tum Ho star received the Pride of Performance award with the nation cheering him on. Numerous stars from the industry took to social media to appreciate him for his hard work.

Ahmed Ali Butt, Hira Mani, Sami Khan, Adnan Siddiqui, Aijaz Aslam and Sajal Aly were just a few of the people who praised his talent.

Maulana Tariq Jameel

Religious cleric Maulana Tariq Jameel received the award for his contributions as one of the most renowned Islamic scholars in Pakistan.

Bushra Ansari

The actor, comedian, singer and playwright who started her career as a child performer in the 1950s was awarded the Sitara-e-Imtiaz. Her niece and fellow actor Zara Noor Abbas had celebrated the announcement of the award with a mini-celebration at home.

"40 years of hard work and lots and lots of talent. Decade after decade. You do us proud. Congratulations Khala. Sitara-e-Imtiaz Mubarak," she had said.

Sultana Siddiqui and Momina Duraid

Mother-in-law-daughter-in-law duo Sultana Siddiqui and Momina Duraid also received the Sitara-e-Imtiaz for their contributions to both the big and the small screen.

Abida Parveen

Musical legend Abdia Parveen was conferred the Nishan-e-Imtiaz during the ceremony.

Last year's recipients included actors Babra Sharif, Mehwish Hayat, Reema Khan, Iftikhar Thakur and Shabbir Jan as well as singers Attaullah Essakhelvi, Sajjad Ali and Sardar Ali Takkar.

You can find the complete list of winners here.