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14 Jul, 2021

We're all proud of our family members but Asim Azhar has something extra special to brag about. His aunt, Durdana Ansari, has become the first Muslim woman and first Pakistani woman to be appointed a captain of the British Royal Navy.

Azhar took to Twitter to honour Ansari for her achievement.

"Today is a proud moment for not just me or my family, but for the whole nation," the 'Jo Tu Na Mila' singer posted on Instagram.

"Durdana Ansari OBE becomes the first Muslim and Pakistani female in the world to get ranked as a captain of the British Royal Navy approved by the Queen herself," he announced, adding that he was so proud of his khala jaan.

The former BBC current affairs producer was previously awarded an OBE by the queen and got promoted on July 8. Taking to social media to humbly address the celebrations and congratulations directed her way, she thanked her nephew for the kind words.

"I feel humbled beta Asim to receive this honour. I've been extremely blessed with the prayers of my parents, Allah Talaa, and the massive support by the Sea Lord, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth 2nd and most importantly our nation, the real people who believe in us," she said. "I'm proud of you."

Durdana is the sister of Azhar's mother Gul-e-Raana, who is an actor and politician activist. He clearly comes from a family of superstars!

Comments

NYS Jul 14, 2021 12:26pm
Really that's the proud moment for this woman all leads First Muslim,Pakistani,first woman,captain in British Royal Navy what else simply salute you carve
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Dr. Salaria, Aamir Ahmad Jul 14, 2021 12:53pm
Great move and wonderful news. As always, keep it up and hang on tough.
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Realistic Jul 14, 2021 12:59pm
Who cares
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Jehanzeb Khan Jul 14, 2021 01:01pm
Asim, she's British, not Pakistani. Congrats though.
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babu Jul 14, 2021 01:06pm
Extremely rare and tough for Muslim women to reach such positions. Congratulations need encouragement.
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Ajaz Jul 14, 2021 01:09pm
Isn't Britain a foreign power?
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Zak Jul 14, 2021 01:15pm
Congratulations and salute to Captain Durdana. A commendable achievement.
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Zak Jul 14, 2021 01:15pm
Pakistanis contribute and achieve wherever they are. Much admired.
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Qasim Khan Jul 14, 2021 01:32pm
Such fantastic news, really proud of you, such positive and good news. Really proud also of UK giving equal opportunities to minority groups - nothing is impossible if you put your heart and soul into it!
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Paul Vannacore Jul 14, 2021 01:45pm
Is she a Pakistani? Could this happen in Pakistan?
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Farouq Omaro Jul 14, 2021 01:54pm
Congratulations!
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Hassan Jul 14, 2021 01:54pm
Many congratulations.
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S Asif Jul 14, 2021 02:04pm
congratulations, what good news!
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Joe Jul 14, 2021 02:13pm
first Pakistani woman to be appointed a captain of the British Royal Navy." How can a Pakistani be part of Royal Navy.?One has to be a citizen of UK.
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ABU TALIB Jul 14, 2021 02:17pm
Congratulation & best wishes in future endeavor, Keep Pakistan/British Flag high
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hamed Jul 14, 2021 03:10pm
@Paul Vannacore Two ladies are Major Generals in Pakistan Army.
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Ashfaq ahmed Jul 14, 2021 03:53pm
A real pride moment for Pakistan. Congratulations Capt and family. A rare honor indeed.
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Ashfaq ahmed Jul 14, 2021 03:56pm
@Realistic Disgraceful comments. We, Pakistanis care.
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Aziz USA Jul 14, 2021 04:05pm
She is not a PAKISTANI, a foreigner cannot serve in BRITISH Navy.
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Taj Ahmad - USA Jul 14, 2021 04:46pm
Great news for all Pakistanis around the world, congrats to Ms. Durdana Ansari on her promotion as captain in British Royal Navy and wishing all good lucks to singer Asim Azhar.
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Omar Jul 14, 2021 05:06pm
So , she’s a colonel equivalent.
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Bakra Jul 14, 2021 05:45pm
@Paul Vannacore yes this has already happened in Pakistan. We have a lady Lieutenant General. What else you want dear
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well-wisher Jul 14, 2021 07:12pm
@babu She was recognized on merit, not religion. Be proud of her.
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S A Ali Jul 14, 2021 07:15pm
@Realistic We do. All Pakistan is proud of our Sister/Daughter. There r not many!
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Trader JJ Jul 16, 2021 10:15am
She’s British. Don’t know what the fuss is about.
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