Pakistani singer Humaira Arshad has criticized the judging panel of the ongoing Pakistan Idol (Season 2, which premiered in October 2025), suggesting that more seasoned and legendary artists such as Ghulam Ali, Taranum Naz, Saira Naseem, and Shabnam Majeed should have been included instead.
The current judging panel for Pakistan Idol Season 2 consists of a mix of well-known entertainment figures, featuring Ustad Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Fawad Khan (known primarily as an actor, but also a singer), Zeb Bangash, and Bilal Maqsood (from the band Strings).
Humaira Arshad expressed her disapproval during an interview, stating that the current judges are not all well-versed in the technicalities of music and that such individuals should “be ashamed” to participate in something outside their expertise.
She argued that while public figures help attract sponsorships, the judging roles should be filled by individuals with deeper musical backgrounds and experience.
The casting of the current judges, particularly Fawad Khan, has sparked some public debate, with some social media comments mirroring Arshad’s sentiment that the panel should include more senior, dedicated singers.
The show’s producers, however, highlighted that the new panel offers a blend of expertise, melody, and entertainment to attract a wide audience.
