Maryam Nawaz’s $20,000 handbag at Umrah raises eyebrows

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s recent visit to Saudi Arabia for Umrah has drawn attention, not for her pilgrimage, but for a luxury handbag she carried, which has ignited an online debate.

Accompanying Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Maryam was seen wearing a black abaya and sunglasses, carrying what is believed to be a Hermès Kelly Sellier 28 in Etain Epsom leather with gold hardware. The French luxury brand is known for its exclusivity, with its Kelly and Birkin bags being highly sought after by collectors and celebrities.

Luxury fashion experts estimate the bag’s value at over $20,000 (approximately 5 million Pakistani rupees).

Following the viral images, social media users debated the appropriateness of displaying such an extravagant accessory during a religious pilgrimage. While some defended her right to personal luxury, others criticized what they saw as a contradiction between the simplicity of Umrah and the display of wealth.

The discussion continues to gain traction online, with mixed reactions on the matter.