Veteran actor Nabeel Zafar has shared a tongue-in-cheek reaction to the newly announced federal budget, claiming that the government is now taxing the very act of breathing.
Taking to Instagram, the Bulbulay star posted a satirical status in Urdu that states: “In the budget, there is a 50% tax on taking shallow breaths and a 100% tax on taking deep breaths.”
Laced with sharp humour, the post appears to be a jab at rising inflation and the growing economic burden on citizens.
While clearly a joke, it struck a chord with many who feel the budget leaves little ‘breathing room’.
Though not explicitly stated, his witty remark alluded to the indirect impact of taxes and price hikes … even joking that oxygen might soon come at a cost.
Nabeel’s comment quickly went viral, with fans flooding the post with laughing emojis and witty replies of their own. Many praised the actor for using humour to highlight public frustration over economic challenges.
From playing serious roles in the ’90s to delivering laughter through Bulbulay, Nabeel remains a cherished cultural figure.
When he entered the industry, it was the heroic-cum-tragic roles that initially captured audiences’ imagination. His early projects that brought him into the limelight were predominantly serious.
According to Nabeel, the three Ds in his life – Din, Daldal, and Dhuwaan – did wonders for him on PTV.
While Din and Daldal were filmed in Lahore, Dhuwaan was shot in Quetta, and it was Dhuwaan that earned him overnight fame and recognition.
In an effort to showcase his versatility, Nabeel eventually ventured into comedy. He now prefers comic roles, believing that in a society crippled by violence and depression, making people laugh is essential.
“It’s a hardcore, nerve-wracking experience to play a tragic role, so doing comedy afterwards comes as a relief,” he shared in an interview.
As a strong proponent of realism in drama, Nabeel believes: “Characters should not be so far from reality that viewers cannot relate to them.”
Recently, Nabeel returned home from Saudi Arabia, where he performed Hajj just a few days ago.
Travelling alongside respected TV host Waseem Badami, Nabeel embarked on the sacred journey in early June. The pair were widely photographed throughout the pilgrimage, from their departure from Pakistan to performing rituals in the Kingdom.
An Instagram post shared three days ago confirmed the completion of Nabeel’s very first Hajj, conveying a sense of emotion and spiritual accomplishment: “And Mabrook to @nabeelzafar.official on completing his first Hajj! May Allah accept it from you…”