According to ABC News, you can take one part John Stewart, and one part RuPaul, and you get Begum Nawazish Ali, the most popular hostess on TV in Pakistan. Yes, Ali Saleem, is the most popular and outspoken hostess in the conservative Muslim nation. Of course, it’s all a joke. If it weren’t, it’s likely Saleem would have been stoned to death by now. His flamboyant style is overlooked as his public platform allows him to defy US intentions in the region. Also a popular sentiment. Saleem has been interviewed a few times in the past few years, The New York Time, and The Washington Post the recent ABC News Story (videos after the jump) has brought him to our attention once again.
He knows he couldn’t get away with being so combative and crass if he were a woman. But by dressing up like one, by living openly and talking about politics like no one has in this country, he represents the modern Pakistan — the Pakistan that parties in Karachi and enjoys art in Lahore.

I think they all support Begum Nawazish Ali because in many ways by supporting her they feel she may set the people of Pakistan free. She gives them strength. And she gives them hope.

He is also trying to help them become more progressive. And it seems to be working. In 2½ years of dressing up like a woman and talking openly about his sexuality, Saleem says he’s never received a single threat. Mullahs approach him in the airport to praise his show. Teenage girls call Begum Nawazish Ali a role model. For Saleem, he hopes to keep inspiring people and keep inspiring his country.

See for yourself:

susty.com – Meet Ali Saleem – The Hostess with the Mostest from George Spyros on Vimeo.