Hazim Bangwar, recently criticized for his fashion choices, has addressed his critics, emphasizing his right to “live his private life in peace.”
“I think most people have forgotten that I’m human, and like any other human, I should be allowed to live my private life in peace,” Bangwar wrote on Instagram.
The bureaucrat, known for his unique fashion sense and eccentric personality, has served as an assistant commissioner in Karachi. He defies the stereotypical image expected of civil servants.
Reacting to criticism for attending a local style award in a black gothic outfit, Bangwar highlighted his decision to leave a life of luxury to serve the public. However, he lamented that he continues to “pay the price” for his decision by being trolled, bullied, and threatened for “simply dressing well.”
He reiterated that he has always carried his office with “respect and dignity” while ensuring appropriate clothing. He questioned whether other professionals wear their work-related attire outside their jobs.
“No doctor or officer wears their gowns or uniforms outside their office, but I guess I’m expected to,” Bangwar said.
Former federal minister Fawad Chaudhry’s comments, calling the bureaucrat to “respect the office,” added to Bangwar’s scrutiny. Chaudhry remarked on social media about the decline in Pakistan’s bureaucracy while reacting to Bangwar’s video.
However, some defended Bangwar’s fashion choices. Absa Komal questioned the issue of expressing fashion or art skills outside of work, while another user likened Bangwar’s outfit to the US television series Game of Thrones.
Who is Hazim Bangwar?
Hazim Bangwar holds a degree in Fashion Design and Marketing from AIU London and an LLB from the UK. He is also a singer, with his first single, “Haram,” becoming a hit in South Korea, Hungary, Egypt, and India. He followed this with “Hell Ya,” his first Urdu song.
One of his passion projects is his foundation, HBF, which funds education, environmental and animal welfare, and emergency response programs in Pakistan.
Additionally, he has supported numerous local and international non-profit organizations, including WWF, SOS, Oceana, Amnesty International, Dar Ul Sakoon, Project Aware, and PETA.
