“‘I Am Not Because of Social Media — Social Media Is Because of Me,’ Says Nauman Ijaz”

News Article:

Pakistani veteran actor Nauman Ijaz has offered a pointed commentary on the role of social media in his life and career, asserting that he has shaped the digital narrative rather than being shaped by it.

Speaking recently in an interview, Ijaz declared: “I am not because of social media — social media is because of me.” His remark underscores the confidence of a long-standing luminary in Pakistan’s entertainment industry who believes that his influence transcends trending hashtags and short-form posts.

The actor, whose body of work spans more than three decades, has often addressed the impact of social media on fame and reputation. In May 2022, he criticised platforms for spreading false news—particularly about his health—and warned that such go-viral content can deeply affect families and loved ones.

The one who uploaded this news may get some new followers and some dollars from YouTube,” Ijaz quipped about a false report of his passing.

In the latest statement, Ijaz appears to be signalling a shift in narrative: not only will he not be a passive subject of online currents, but he will define how social media engages with him. His claim also comes at a time when many actors, influencers and public figures are navigating the blurred lines between authenticity, online presence, and brand identity.

Why This Matters:

For an industry increasingly reliant on social media visibility, Ijaz’s stance stands out as an assertion of sovereignty over digital image and narrative.

The remark offers insight into how established figures view the interplay between legacy, platform and persona in the digital era.

It raises broader questions: Does social media serve us or do we serve it? And who controls the story when every trending moment can eclipse long-term craft?

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What to Watch:

Whether Ijaz engages in new digital initiatives (e.g., social-media platforms, content creation) that reflect his declared ownership of the medium.

How younger actors and industry newcomers respond to his viewpoint: will they align with or push back against this perspective?

Whether his stance influences how Pakistani celebrities manage their online m­­­inutes, and what kinds of collaborations or features emerge as a result.