Mein victim nahi survivor banu gi, mein bechari aur mazloom nahi banu gi. Mein mazbut hu, taqatwar hu……In this day and age when our writers and producers are bent on showing becharis in dramas it is truly refreshing and inspiring to watch a character which refuses to be a bechari even though she has been through much more than many other leading ladies who are turned into becharis for no reason. Also, all the dramas so far which have dealt with this very sensitive issue have advocated that a victim should keep quiet because sharing the truth with anyone at all will not get her any solutions but will only add to her troubles. We saw Rameen’s own mother in Chup Raho asking her to stay silent about the issue because if she spoke up then her fiancé would refuse to marry her and her brother in law (the rapist!) will divorce her sister! In Sangat even the counselor who was given the task of guiding Ayesha, told her that she should not share her ordeal with anyone and as a result of that right till the end Ayesha’s mother did not even know what happened to her! Also, in most of these dramas whenever the truth came out the victim’s life never changed for the better. Things got worse for Rameen and Ayesha both when their spouses found out the truth. Udaari sets new standards in many ways and I cannot praise the team of Udaari enough for sending out a message that is not only new but truly enlightening. It isn’t very easy showing things in dramas which are not widely accepted by the society and to tell the story of a rape victim in such a way that it questions the clichés and taboos attached to it. 
Zebu’s confidence stood out more than anything else in this episode. The reason for this confidence was that Zebu could clearly see now what needed to be done. She truly believed that she was a survivor, someone who could not change her past but had the courage and the power to bring the man who violated her to justice. The scene outside the court in which she said she wasn’t nervous at all was a very powerful scene which showed that a victim shouldn’t be the one who should feel nervous or vulnerable. Hina Altaf’s acting was definitely on point in tonight’s episode. She portrayed all of Zebu’s feelings brilliantly. The scenes in the court in particular and all the developments in tonight’s episode in general were covered flawlessly. Many of the questions that were in the mind of the viewers were also answered in this episode. The role of Kashf foundation was also highlighted aptly; without their help it would have been very difficult for Zebu to get justice. The pressure from the foundation will play a pivotal role in putting pressure of Malik Iftikhar. The change in the attitude of the judge and most importantly the way Imtiaz’s demeanor changed when Zebu walked in the court were all minor details which went to show how things turned around only because the victim chose to speak up. Ahsan Khan just like every other episode played his role effortlessly. Sammiya Mumtaz’s expressions and Sajida’s attempts to quiet Zebu showed that she could not do anything to stop Zebu at this point. 
This episode sent a clear cut message – once a rape victim manages to muster up the courage to take a stand for herself, things do turn around. Also, the victim is the only who should decide whether she wants to punish the rapist or stay quite and the people who are associated with her should not take that decision on her behalf. Zebu was not ready to come forward few weeks back because for the past so many years she was told by everyone around her that she shouldn’t tell anyone what had happened but Arsh’s conversation with her changed everything. Farhan Saeed is another actor who has been truly impressive in this serial. Udaari deserves 5 stars for breaking stereotypes and taboos. It also deserves tons of praise for giving out all the right messages loud and clear. This episode in particular was very well directed, written and acted out. It would have been picture perfect if the director decided to chop down Ins e Yazdan’s scenes all together. Sheedan could have been the one who asked Zebu how she felt before the trial. How many of you watched this episode? Please share your thoughts about it.
Udaari Episode 22 – Breaking Stereotypes
Naml Episode26 – Farzand-e-Nazneen – Mulzim Is The Beloved Child
OMG…what an episode, I am speechless and still in awe. I wonder how come the writer has managed to keep the interest alive because for me Aab-e-Hayat had lost it long ago although it is better now but Naml has been an exceptionally good collaboration of suspense, plotting, intelligent conversation, brave decisions and most importantly the hope and wisdom conveyed through the deeper meanings of Ayats.
Yippie, let’s talk about the episode, It was ah-mazing with everything starting falling in its place and Kardaars getting ready for their horrendous end.
Team Faris or Farcissism ?:
I was sure that Faris is up to something but I never knew he was such a dau number insan, that he not only teamed up with Ahmer Shafi but also made sure Dr. Sarah to speak out in the court. Good job Faris ?
Team Zumar:
Thora Sa Aasman Episode 07 – So Far So Good!
Ohkay so, this episode of Thora Sa Aasman was a good watch for sure. I really like how without wasting much time, the director is taking the story forward & every episode gives us something new because it not only makes things interesting but also keeps the attention of the viewers intact too.
Fareeda Apa played her game really really well & this time with much more confidence because she had a support of her daughter Aneela as well. Aneela might not say it but she definitely dreams of being with a guy like Talha who not only is decent but is financially sound too. Fareeda Apa obviously doesn’t want Masood & Mansoor’s children to get married because she knows that way, their mutual wealth will remain within their families & her dream of seeing her children getting settled will be ruined. Where Fareeda wants Aneela to get married to either Talha or Osama, she has a son too who she wants to see getting married to either Ambar or Safiya, because of obvious reasons. Fareeda however succeeded in creating a misunderstanding between the two families as she knew that both Muneeza & Shabana won’t budge & that way her future plans will work.
Muneeza didn’t take the news well as she is not only level headed but a tad bit arrogant as well, as she knows that her daughters will easily get married & Talha & Osama are not the last guys on earth. Mansoor might be younger be he has an upper-hand in comparison to Masood because it seems like it was his business that he allowed Masood to become a part of, that is why both Mansoor & Muneeza don’t really shy away from taking a stand as they know they have an edge over Masood & Shabana.
It was interesting to see how Shabana, without saying much about Ambar & Muneeza accepted everything. She knew that she did say a word or two but if everyone had read between the lines, they would’ve known that Fareeda magnified everything to benefit from it the most. Shabana also had no chance to succumb to the pressures because she saw that her family would end up suffering from every single angle be it financial crisis or social standing as they know it a bit too well that Mansoor’s association with them might come with a territory but has its own benefits too. Shabana & Masood tried to be a bigger person in this matter & apologized which was accepted halfheartedly by Muneeza & Mansoor. Even though they reconciled but Fareeda knows that she has planted the seed of doubt in their hearts & mind forever & it won’t take her a lot of time & effort to achieve her goal of separating these two families in the future.
Even though Ambar might come across as a spoiled brat, she has a lot of niceness in her heart & that makes her personality likable. She is just like any other girl, who behaves that way because of the way she has been pampered by her parents & then her fiancé. Ambar is independent & she doesn’t like reporting every single thing to Talha, which he finds a little hard to accept & that is why, he doesn’t take the news of Ambar’s participating in a college play a bit too well. Talha & Ambar might love each other but they have a personality clash where Talha wants to feel that he’s the one who has an authority in this relationship, but Ambar’s level-headedness doesn’t allow him to feel that way because she is not only opinionated, but she is independent too & she is not a typical girl who believes in reporting everything to her fiancé, that too which she chooses to do for herself in her life.
Ambar has come across as girl in college named Rakshi & seems like Rakshi has a humble background. Ambar & Rakhsi instantly form a connection because not only Ambar seems to like her, Rakhsi seems a little too impressed with Ambar as well & the moment Ambar starts a conversation, Rakhsi eases her way into her life without making anything seem effortful. Ambar’s friends are not a fan of an idea that Ambar has befriended Rakshi but Ambar doesn’t seem to mind as she is quite kindhearted in her own way.
Overall, this episode was done really really well & I am glad that even though the misunderstanding that Fareeda Apa created was huge, it was dealt & finished off within this episode & not only that, along with everything happening between the elders, the director gave enough time to the younger lot as well where he introduced the character of Rakshi at the right time. I am definitely looking forward to what is yet to come & I really hope that the pace, which for me is the strongest point of this drama stays the same till the end. I will say that the director has tackled this script with a lot of intelligence & I am really happy I decided to tune to this drama. Please share your thoughts about this episode of Thora Sa Aasman.
Keep Supporting,
Cheers,
Zahra Mirza.
The Best Woman In The Kitchen
The content of the morning shows has been repeatedly brought under discussion on pretty much every platform. We are well aware of the antics to gather the ratings, where the morality police of the morning show chased unsuspecting couples in Karachi’s part or the live exorcisms, which scared us to death with our morning coffee. No matter how much we talk about it, no matter how much we despise it, the plague of regressive material continues on the morning shows, because it sells. There is no iota of incentive on account of these shows, which shows a change for the better, instead they launch on pathetic reinforcement of clichés, because it sells.
My random midnight flicking through the channels brought me to one such show. The reason I continued to watch this particular show in the middle of the night was because I was looking for an ounce of sanity, it is best to say there was nothing there. ‘Jago Pakistan Jago’ Hum Televisions leading morning show with a host setting incredible standards in posh dressing was this time on the hunt for the best woman in the kitchen. She and her two sidekicks, one a renowned chef (who with all his expertise failed to realize that it’s called ‘Ravioli’ not ‘Ravaili’. Yes I am judging him over his pronunciation, because if he thought himself to be entitled enough to pass judgments on the women who cook every day of their lives, then he must be judged on his expertise and isn’t that the deal in the culinary school that you need to name the thing right, before you even try to make it?) And another woman, who inexplicably was there to make every woman in the kitchen feel bad about herself, as she was taking the lead in telling everyone if the garam masala is not hand grinded to perfection in two minutes, then you have lost it at domestic life.
The main aim on the show was to find the woman on the show was the cleanest and the most efficient in the kitchen or in the local terms ‘Sugghar’. The ladies were given two minutes to do the tasks like grind the spices, separate the eggs or make the chutney. Well it is safe to say all of the women on the show failed to cater to the standards of Sanam Jung and her two sidekicks, who over the night became the Matt Preston of food critics in Pakistan. This was not the only thing that angered me during the entire show, occasionally the audience burst into a tirade against a contestant and her kitchen skills, and lets just say the two incredible sidekicks did not disappoint. Now I know, these woman posing as contestant might be actresses or paid to act in a particular way, or this entire show was a set up. But, there is no explanation of why a woman who cooks for her family every day of the year should be brought under such a scrutiny and why we must enforce the cliché that if a woman is unclean or inefficient in the kitchen she has failed altogether as a woman and her womanhood is ashamed of her.
The entitled chef was out there spelling out critiques to the women on how they have failed. Little did he realize that the women in the kitchen are not the graduates of a culinary school, they have developed their skills on their own, not working in a professional kitchen but around the needs of a home, while juggling children and a family. Her life does not depend on the tenderness of pasta but getting the food on the plate while the children cry on other end of the house.
Why is this a problem and why does it affect me emotionally? It is a problem because all it does is to show a woman usefulness only being limited to the kitchen. It shows that all that a woman should worry about is her efficiency in the kitchen and it also shows that there is little incentive to our television people to show a progressive woman. I belong to home where my mother cooked meals and fed her children properly, it angers me that her legacy of a perfect mother gets tainted by a mere fact that she was not pristine clear in the kitchen. It angers me to see a channel that has a woman at the helm come up with such regressive ideas against women. The shows are another story, but isn’t it the same case there?
If the woman is not in the kitchen, worried about her wedding or her life revolving around a cliché, then she is incapable of being glorified in any positive way. This is the message we impart to the women of our country, and sadly this message sells the most. I am a man and it aches my heart that our television industries led by these unregulated morning shows are reinforcing every stereotype against the woman. Why complain to men for their chauvinism, when we have women on television doing exactly just that. Oscar, fighter pilot, doctor or a revolutionary, these things are pointless unless your kitchen is spotless, that is the woman we idealize and sadly that is the woman that shall sell.
Jehanzeb Jehangiri
Atif Aslam with his Gorgeous wife Sara
Here are few clicks of Atif Aslam and his stunning wife from a family function the attended.
THEATRICAL TRAILER OF THE FILM SAYA-E-KHUDAY- E-ZULJALAL
This film is about the story of Pakistan narrated by the Heroes of Pakistan, what Pakistan was supposed to be and what it is today. The fil m will be starring Javed Sheikh, Moammar Rana, Arbaaz Khan, Rambo, Asad Malik, Sohail Sameer, Shafqat Cheema, Nayyer Ijaz, Firdous Jamal, Kamran Mujahid, Amir Qureshi, Essa Chaudhry, Umer Cheema & Hassan Khan.Noor Bukhari, Jia Ali, Rachel Gill, Amna Malik & Nimra Khan.
The director of the film is Umair S. Fazli. It is written by Dr. Tauseef Razzaque & Inam Qadri and produced by Dr. Tauseef Razzaque.
TRAILER
Few pictures from the movie
New Charity in name of Nazia Hassan
Muniza Basir the mother of legendary singer Nazia Hassan shared her latest initiative with media. Muniza shared that a new charity project is started in Nazia Hassan’s name in which underprivileged children of Karachi will study. The purpose is to educate the street children. Prior to this charity project no such project exists.
Muniza in a statement shared, “We are working towards establishing a school here in Karachi, but this is not just any other school in Pakistan. This school is specifically dedicated to the grooming and education of working children on the streets – who have been burdened with the expectation of earning for their entire families at the expense of their own education.”
Further she added, “Our school aspires to offer these children a course on whatever they are already doing as a profession, while also teaching them basic subjects such as English, mathematics, computer skills and history. The aim of this initiative is to brush up skills that would help them flourish in their profession, while also being capable of going and taking up their work in any other place and not having to worry about getting by.”
Nazia’s mother shared that Nazia was born in Karachi that’s why the project is started from this city and she believes to extend branches of school soon in other cities too. Muniza shared that previously she was busy bringing up Nazia’s son who is now studying law in Kings College.
Muniza also told that it was Nazia’s wish that an educational institution should be set up for the children so that while earning there bread and butter they are not left behind in the race of developing career. Therefore the aim of the institution is to provide a long term solution to children who grow up on the streets by providing them with diplomas from established universities.
“We will be offering a five-year course for our students, and have been reaching out to universities who can authorize and give these students a diploma. With this diploma, they can earn their livelihood anywhere. As we are sure that the universities will promote this initiative, it is to our great pleasure to announce that our students will now also have the option of pursuing higher education!” she says.
Muniza told that it’s one of the buildings of Nazia’s farther which is being utilized for the project. She said she was hesitant when she asked him but he approved of the idea immediately considering his daughters wish and the life of the poor kids.
The tentative name for the institution is Nazia Hasan Foundation and yet the opening date is not decided.
Dil Lagi Episode 24 – Emotionally Overpowering
What an episode! It was tear-jerkingly moving, I am still trying to recover from the effect it had on me. This episode belonged to the director Nadeem Baig who captured the complete gamut of emotions which were needed to make this episode work. While watching this episode I felt like one of those many characters in the drama who love Mohid and were sitting outside that operation theatre waiting to hear that he survived and will recover. The wedding was covered beautifully, the tayaris and the excitement was captured brilliantly. Everyone involved went from being ecstatic to being extremely sad in no time. Most of the viewers could totally see this coming and honestly speaking I was dreading the moment when that bullet would hit Mohid when he was dancing while I also hoped that I was wrong! Everything from there on was covered flawlessly, Anmol’s reaction in particular was heart-wrenching. Ama’s dialogues in the hospital about doing everything that needed to be done in order to ensure that things end happily was one of the best dialogues of this episode.
This latest installment was comparatively brief but that was expected since this was that extra episode which was not part of the plan initially! The first 10 minutes or so were dedicated to showing the scenes which were shown last week as well. However the episode as a whole was filled with emotional moments. For me the highlights of this episode were Mohid’s expressions when ama says “aj raat ko”, Anmol’s reaction when her mother tells her Mohid’s mother was coming, the conversation between Anmol and Mohid, Dastagir’s dance and most importantly Anmol’s scenes after Mohid gets shot. The moments Mishal and Anmol shared in front of the mirror and the one after Mohid gets shot were also beautifully shot and looked very real; they were filled with raw emotions. Mehwish Hayat looked stunning as a bride and Hamayun Saeed could easily pass for the “shehzada” he is playing on screen. The dialogues in the background when Mohid got shot made this scene even more touching. At that point I wasn’t sure if he would make it to the hospital. Mehwish Hayat was the star of the show tonight; she translated Anmol’s excitement prior to the accident and her state of shock after the accident impeccably on screen.
I am definitely rooting for a happy ending – Mohid and Anmol both deserve it and someone like Mohid deserves to live! Waiting another week to find out how this drama will end is going to be very difficult especially after this episode. You know a drama is a complete success when you find it impossible to detach yourself from the happenings and cannot decide which character in the drama is your favorite because all the characters in Dil Lagi are multi-dimensional and equally interesting. One of the primary strengths of this play are its characters which are unpredictable yet very consistent – their personality traits are consistent but they always keep the viewers guessing about their next move. The strengths of these characters are also their weaknesses, this quality makes their characters easy to connect to and more human. Also, although this story is mainly about Anmol and Mohid’s Dillagi but the supporting characters do much more than supporting the main leads, they have an incredible screen presence and their personalities are very dynamic and interesting. The credit for all these wonderful characters who will be remembered for a very long time and who have given some of the actors involved a new identity goes to the entire team of Dil Lagi from the writer, director, actors to the person in charge of make-up. Hamayun Saeed has bowled his viewers over by translating Mohid’s character flawlessly on screen. His portrayal is honest and endearing. Mehwish Hayat has made me forget every other character she has played till date, to me now she will be Anmol for a very long time. Imran Ashraf is another actor who is exceedingly well-suited for the role he is playing in this drama.
This episode of Dil Lagi deserved to be screened on the big screen! How many of you are still okay with a sad ending? And how many viewers out there want Mohid to survive? Please do share your thoughts about this episode and the drama in general too since we only have this week and the next one to discuss Dil Lagi – a drama I will sorely miss when it ends.
FAWAD ! FAWAD & FAWAD Bollywood Echoes!
There is no end to the appreciation which our talented Fawad Khan is getting from Bollywood. According to the latest news Fawad is nominated for the India’s Outlook Social Media (OSM) Awards 2016 in the category of Fashionista of the Year.
Along with Fawad Khan many other Bollywood stars are also nominated like ShahRukh Khan, Karan Johar and Karan Patel.
Fawad has reaped only 13 % votes , there is no doubt that or Fawad Khan is top Fashion Icon. Let’s make our Khan win the OSM 2016 Fashionista of the Year award! You can cast your vote for Fawad Khan here.
http://www.osm-awards.com/nominee_profile.php?id=MjIx
Ranbir Kapoor and Fawad Khan are Good Friends!
No matter that Bollwood super star and Ranbir Kapoor and Pakistani Heart throbbing Fawad Khan are fighting with each other in the teaser of Ae Dil Hai Mushkil. But Ranbir Kapoor lately shared with the media that he really enjoyed the company of Fawad Khan both on sets and off the sets.
Ranbir Kapoor shared with the Hindustan Times, it was “a lot of fun” working with the Khoobsurat actor. “He is talented. Hanging out with him, even outside the sets, was so much fun. We struck a good friendship,” said Ranbir.
When Ranbir found out that Fawad Khan is playing an extended cameo in the film, Ranbir Kapoor was very excited and said “I hope his part has been increased”.
It’s good to see that our stars are leaving a very good impact internationally and making good ties with celebrities out there too! No doubt that it is enhancing the image of Pakistani people and there mind-set globally.
Will Muslim-Hindu Love story work with Pakistani audience? Watch the Trailer.
Muslim-Hindu love stories are a very sensitive matter to deal with. Usually the audience is never comfortable with such ideas. The religious and cultural differences put such stories at risk. Sam goes for the writer Hamza Bangash who is trying to fund his short film Rang Raaz. Hamza is unable to get funding for his film, all that he is getting is a refusal.
Hamza shared, “We had approached some pretty prominent people in Pakistan who had vested interests in having a story about minorities told. “He added, “But they all refused, saying the subject of an interfaith marriage is too controversial. I was shocked. Here were people who had prospered, people who were well-connected, but still too scared to make a political statement. They said it’s a threat to their life and their family’s life.”
Hamza also told that on the other hand there are also supporters to the project, like Deepak Parwani. Up till now Hamza himself has funded the project Rang Raaz but now need funding for its post-production.
The short film Rang Raaz is about a young couple, where the man is a Hindu and woman is a Muslim decide to elope. But soon all the things turn upside down and against them.
According to Hamza they have received very negative feedback on their Facebook page But Hamza justifies his case by saying that ‘Who are you to dictate what our culture is?’ If Jinnah, who founded our nation, believed in cultural pluralism, then who is anyone else to say otherwise?”
The film itself is inspired by the much delayed passing of the Hindu Marriage Bill.
Hamza hopes and believes that by independently funding his movie he will be able to change mind-sets of few at least. H believes that no matter Bollywood make good movies but we need to talk about our social issue and recognize out own identity.
What are your views about this short film? share them with us!
Watch the Trailer:
source: Dawn news
Jana Malick gets Married to singer Nouman javaid
The Mor Mahal star gets married to singer Nouman Javaid. Nouman is ex-husband of Fariha Parvez . After his divorce with Fariha, Nouman was really depressed and committed suicide. He took 50 sleeping pills and stayed in Iteffaq hospital for two days.
But now the actor is back in new spirits and has tied knot with beautiful Jana Malick. Nouman is really excited and is looking forward to resume his music career. Nouman also wants Jana to do well in her acting career.
Both the actors met for the first time on 12 august and later Nouman proposed Jana. Things happened speedily but the best part is that both are happy with each other.
We wish the couple a very happy married life. Cheers!
source: Dawn news
Breaking News: Actress Neesha Malick Committed Suicide in Lahore
The entertainment industry of Pakistan has just again lost one of its artist who has reported to have committed suicide. Actress Neesha Malick, who was all set to enjoy her debut in Pakistani movie best of luck this Eid, has committed suicide in Lahore. As per the latest reveals, it has been found that she hanged herself to death at home after a minute dispute at home. Police is still in search of the real cause of death. Check out this clip to know more about it.
Zahid Ahmed! Heart Wrenching story of his Personal Life
Zahid Iftikhar Ahmed is now one of the most popular lead actor of Drama Industry. Beginning his television career from Drama Serial “Mehram” opposite Ayesha Khan as a lead Protagonist, he achieved height of his success when he outdid everyone by playing a negative role in drama serial “Alvida” aired on Hum TV in 2015 and received best actor award in a negative role in 4th Hum Awards. He established himself as a lead actor as he received further acclaims for his roles in “Jugnoo” “Tum mere pass raho” “Sangat” and currently in “Zara Yaad Kar” and “Besharam”.
Zahid Ahmed retains acting sense and he is building a great portfolio for himself in field of acting. However not everything will fall in your way so easily, Zahid struggled a long way to become an actor. He went through many transformations in his personal life including physical transformation as well where he lost his weight and recovered from hair loss.
Here is how Zahid himself depicts the story of his personal and professional life on social media which is not less than a roller-coaster ride of pain and luck.
Zahid Words are “The picture has been circulating on many websites and people have been asking me if this is true. Well here’s the answer…it is absolutely TRUE! The picture on the left is me (Zahid). But just like every picture, you never get to know the whole story…apart from getting a solution for my hair loss and being over weight, there’s much more to my story! Here it is!
2011 – Working as COO (Chief operating officer) for an I.T company
2011 – Got married
2011 – went for fabulous honeymooning in Malaysia
2011 – on last day of honeymoon found out that the company didn’t exist anymore (they were fraudulent)
2011 – came back to Pakistan with new terrified wife, no job and huge debt on credit card
2011 – job hunt started, marriage was about to fall apart
2012 – Had a terrible accident and injured spine
2012 – 4 months of not being able to move, divorce seemed a reality
2012 – got a radio show because of the voice
2012 – further destroyed the spine by trying to go to the radio
2012 – now a vegetable, lost all movement, lost radio, had some self esteem left
2012 – head of PIMS Islamabad recommended spinal surgery
2012 – got surgery, started walking again
2012 – got a job which paid 10 times less, worked hard – marriage still on the rocks
2012 – started doing a show for PTV home discussing English movies. Some pride restored.
2012 – Head of PTV notices my English, hires full time to launch PTV WORLD the English channel.
2013 – worked against the culture of PTV to launch the channel.
2013 – PPP Government topples, chief of PTV fired. Now I was left without a boss.
2013 – Team working with Anwar Maqsood approaches me for playing Jinnah in SAWA 14 August. Wife supported
2013 – Played theater for a year. Got hair solution for Jinnah. Lost 22kgs
2014 – left theater because producer was a corrupt soul who owed everyone money
2014 – no home, no money, with wife..left for dead on roads of Karachi
2014 – A lady from a production house of HumTV calls for audition after seeing me on stage
2014 – Gets selected for MEHRAM
2016 – Became what you see now.
If this story doesn’t motivate you, I don’t know what will. I am Zahid Ahmed , I am passion and I am the future”
We all know actors in a limelight having less or no problems in life but we don’t know how much they have struggled to achieve heights of success. Zahid’s story is truly motivating for everyone. Just be patience and everything will fall in your way.
Deewana Episode 31 & 32 – Please Move Things Forward!
Ohkay so, these two episodes of Deewana were again on the slower side but then some progress was made in terms of story which again should’ve been made ages ago. I am not sure why the director is taking so much of time in revealing the story & moving things forward because the story has been going around in circles since ages & now it is becoming burdensome to keep the interest alive in the show. I find a lot of situations repetitive & also I feel that the side characters are getting way more screen time than the main leads, which is compromising a lot on the story & the pace of the drama.
Looks like everyone at this stage is playing mind games with one another. Amtul is playing games with Haris, where she wants him to destroy Mehru’s life for the sake of some reward that she has promised to him along with a huge amount that Haris has demanded. Haris is playing games with Amtul, where he has assured her that he will do everything that she has ordered. Gaiti is playing games with Mehru by telling her everything about Haris, in a hope that she will change her mind & forget Falak. Gaiti is also playing games with Haris as she knows that the moment he will try to win Mehru back, her path of becoming closer to Falak will be cleared.
I am not sure what Mehru is thinking because at one moment she is all rude with her mother & then the next moment, she is all friends with her. The scene which they actually should’ve showed in which Mehru went with a proposal to Amtul’s house was exempted. I feel that was the turning point which wasn’t tackled properly because it had shown us how determined Mehru was & also, I feel they don’t really establish the grounds for the moves that the characters will make, like they didn’t show what made Mehru change her mind & what convinced her to go to Amtul & ask for her help in getting divorced from Haris. That entire thing came out of the blue & didn’t really seem well-established because so far Mehru was happily playing ludo with her father & on the other hand, she went to Amtul’s place & promised her that she will take the entire blame of Rabeea’s death on herself?
Despite being told off by Falak, Gaiti is still bent on winning him over, that is why she is trying to create misunderstanding between him & Mehru & also, she is now assisting Haris because she thinks Mehru will take him back & she will forget about Falak. Both Shabnam & Gaiti are getting way more coverage than required & at times there scenes are funny but at times, they just drag the entire episode.
The only interesting developments were related to Falak’s character. He has fallen in love with Mehru & now Husn Ara & Shams are dreading the fact that Falak is showing those attributes which they have never seen before & which their species does not endorse. Even though Shams tried to scare him by showing him the future that he might have with Mehru which will only bring misery to her, Falak’s love for her didn’t budge but it did make him uncomfortable. Not sure what Falak’s next move will be but I guess he should tell Mehru the truth as it’s a high time now.
Overall, these episodes were quite slow & I guess it’s about time that things should start wrapping up as they have taken enough time already. Please share your thoughts about these 2 episodes of Deewana.
Keep Supporting,
Cheers,
Zahra Mirza.
Never Ending Pakistani Lavish Wedding Ends Now.
The fellas at Instagram have witnessed one of the most expensive and long wedding of Pakistan. Yes, I’m talking about Anush’s wedding with Munib Altaf. Billions of rupees were spent on the wedding.
The nikkah of the couple took place in Badshahi Mosque and the sangeet took place in turke followed by lavish bridal shower, cruise party and musical night. The weird part of the wedding was each party was followed by another. The functions demonstrated the amalgamation of both eastern and western cultures. It seemed the wedding will never come to an end but finally now it has ended.
Anush is the granddaughter of Mr. Senator Gulzar Ahmed khan Ex-senator in D.I.Khan. After Gulzar khan, his sons Mr. Waqar Ahmed Khan become senator Then Anush’s father, Ammar Ahmed khan. Richest people having many businesses like Pak Arab housing authority, WAK group, AA. commodities, pulsar technologies, forest cafe, IVY, gulzar lawn, flora brand and many others She is a business woman CEO of AA Commodities and she is also brain behind Fabbit.com!
clicks & Video from the wedding
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=237&v=2mdSbk1JYnw
Mikaal Zulfiqar and Ali Kazmi roped in Comedy Film
Finally Mikaal is appearing in a desi comedy , the movie is titled as, Na Baja Na Barati. The film is being shot in Canada. Mikaal has described the film as “a story of two brothers always getting into trouble.”
Ali Kazmi who is also a part of Mehreen Jabbar’s Dobara Phir Se has also joined Mikaal in his new venture.The film also has senior Pakistani stars, including Qavi Khan, Atiqa Odho, Azra Mohyeddin and Mehmood Akhtar. The cast also includes actors based out of Pakistan, including Shahyan Khan (USA), Nayab Khan (Canada) and Nzhelika (Ukraine).
Mikaal in a statement said “I’m doing this project to support people outside Pakistan looking to invest in Pakistani films,” says Mikaal.
Shaista Lodhi makes her debut in Drama “Khwaab Nagar”
Shaista Lodhi, the famous morning show host is about to make her debut in Pakistani Drama serial “Khwaab Nagar”, the drama is the joint production of Dr. Ali Kazmi and Fahad Mustafa and directed by Syed Atif Hussain. Previously Shaista was doing a morning show on Sitaray ki Subah on HUM Sitaray and presently doing a morning show on SEE TV. As Shaista is quite famous as a host, acting in a drama will give real boost to her career.
In a statement Shaista shared that she is doing a lead role in the drama and the drama will be on air somewhere in October/November 2016.
This will be Shahista’s first project onto the small screen- she will only take up more ventures if she receives good feedback from the one she has already signed.
Source : Dawn News.
Singer Annie Khalid with her Daughter and Husband
The Mahiya star , Annie Khalid had a shoot with her beautiful Daughter Isha and husband Saad.
Here are the few clicks.
Teri Meri Love Story Releases Today!
Teri Meri Love Story is all set to release today. It was premieerd yesterday in Karachi and entertained numerous famous personalities of the industry. The film is directed by Jawad Bashir.
Basically the story of the film revolves around the stylish TV host Esha (Ushna Shah) who is assigned a project where she goes with her colleagues Sherry (played by Mohsin Abbas), Mona (played by Uzma Khan) and Danish (played by Ahmad Abdul Rehman). Esha wants to marry her love Ramis, (played by Omer Shahzad), but her father (Salman Shahid) wants her to marry childhood friend Nael (superstar Mohib Mirza). In the movie the audience will be able to see the fun-filled journey in finding true love.
The film is Produced and distributed by Summit Entertainment. Film has a strong cast and targets to entertain the audience of all age group.
The director of Summit entertainment, at the premiere said, “Pakistani film projects like this are a reason of immense pride and joy for us all.” On the other hand, Rafay Nabi, who is also a director in the same company, added, “Like all the previous milestones we have achieved as a company, TMLS will also be a trendsetter based on its action sequences, humorous one-liners, and a strong story line. I am sure we shall be able to lure audiences to the theaters for a fun-filled experience.”
The Writer and Director of TMLS, Jawwad Bashir said, “The movie is a sincere attempt to add a new flavor to the local industry. The idea was to create something exciting that would entertain and capture the attention of our audiences worldwide. I’m grateful to all my supporters who waited patiently for the movie and can only hope my work and efforts are witnessed through this film and are truly enjoyed.”
A lot of famous celebrities were seen on the premiere of the film.
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The film’s advance bookings are now also underway at cinemas nationwide.
Faisal Qureshi’s 6th Wedding Anniversary!
The renowned actor Faisal Qureshi celebrated his sixth wedding anniversary with his wife Sana Qureshi on the show “Salam zindagi” aired on ARY Zindagi.
Here are few pictures from the celebration.
Intezaar Episodes 11-13 – Manipulative Maami, Sacrificial Lamb Shariq & the Waaris!
So, I watched these three episodes all together today in bits and pieces while I cooked in between too and at the end of the day I can not help but compare the two. While I threw in pyaaz,tamatar,lasan and adrak into the blender – these three episodes threw in manipulative maami, bechari Zoya, confused majboor Shariq, clueless aapa and maamu and Zoya’s family, a leaf out of the book, well drama called Mann Mayal all into the blender and voila,out came this mess! And the odd bit is that even though I was almost banging my head against the wall at each turn of events and one crazy decision after the other – I could see how this is sadly, all too common a feature of our dramas and even to an extent, certain characters in real life.
After Saba’s accident, Maami decides to take Saba to meet Shariq. The moment she arrives is also when Zoya and Shariq return from the hospital after Zoya has given birth to a baby boy. Mabrook! Except Maami does not feel likewise and although this woman baffles my mind, I can not help but agree with her when she says ‘agar woh uss ki biwi nahin hai, yeh bacha uss ka nahin hai, tau woh laug iss ghar mein kar kia rahay hain?!’ Seeing the ‘love’ in Shariq’s eyes for Zoya, Maami decides the only sensible plan of action is to have Shariq and Saba wed ASAP. Shariq’s mother throws in her two cents and has a word with Zoya which sends Zoya off to do what she does best, run away to the train station and no points or hats off to Shariq for finding her there so quickly – for really where else?
So, what was with the condition Zoya lay before Shariq for her return to Shariq’s house? Marry Saba and I shall return. So, if Shariq really wants to take care of Zoya then maybe get her an apartment? Pay for the rent? Must she live in his house? Anyhow, he agrees and he returns to Saba’s house with his mother with the intention of going ahead with the nikkah. But Maami, sigh – Maami is two steps ahead of everyone, miyan be damned, Shariq be damned, hell even psychiatrist be damned – she has full fledged wedding preparations underway. The whole nikkah, qabool hai scene made me wince. Saba’s mental state confuses me and I do not particularly want to dwell on it for if I am fair, one can not judge someone who has suffered what she has but she seemed to be mentally alright otherwise. Then how does she not know what marriage entails, what a nikkah is, why she must sit with that dupatta on her head. Yes, we could say she led a very sheltered life after her childhood and her parents must have kept such information away from her but oh well.
Moving on, the wedding night was a disaster which we had already gauged from the promos. Shariq defends himself by saying Saba was out of control and he did not know what else to do. It is Maami who truly amazes me. This woman is lost in her own world, running a one man show. She has Shariq almost bullied into this marriage, then is offended when she ‘thinks’ he is not interested, then goes against the psychiatrist’s advice and rushes into the rukhsati – what? I understand she feels she is doing what is best for her child and has come to the point where she does not care who she hurts or upsets so long as Saba is cured but still! Her measures to me do not look like any form of ‘cure’ for Saba at all! Then there is Shariq’s mother who feels so weighed down by her brother’s ehsaans that she is adamant on crushing her only son’s happiness in return.
Zoya’s family also resurfaced in these episodes. Both sets of mothers seem to have collapsed into depression and we learn that Azmeer’s brother can not have children. The father, Naimat is horrified not because of the mental anguish this must cause his son but because, horror, Naimat ka waaris kahan se aye ga. Zoya’s contact with Azmeer’s mother and the sly bhabhi overhearing the conversation makes me think the obvious that now Naimat will want his grandson back in his life.
Zoya is another person who does not sit well with me. Or is it Sana Javed I am frustrated with. I am the sort of person who weeps at every emotional scene but her scenes did not make me bat an eyelid. Maybe because her acting in every drama is the same. She has the same whispered monotone and big eye look. If she is so educated and if she really must act like she does not want to be in anyone’s way then instead of living in Shariq’s house, maybe ask for a loan and have him move her into an apartment. Must she sit in the middle of all the chaos? And then with the scenes when she is thinking of him, I can not help think she has feelings for him too. Even when Shariq asks her, I do not know what sense of ‘goodness’ (barrf) makes her say to him he must marry Saba?
What drives me up the wall is that by Shariq marrying a very obviously unstable Saba at this point when he is so deeply in love with Zoya and her child spells disaster for everyone. But the sad part is – this does happen. Shariq has been persuaded to feel he must return his Maamu’s favors and this is the price. Maami has a bee in her bonnet and seeing Shariq is in love with Zoya, the practical thing would be not to throw your already vulnerable child into the mess but rather, gracefully exit but no, lots of parents do think that things will ‘sort’ themselves out once the marriage has taken place.
The story has had its share of loopholes from the beginning, true, right down to Zoya staying in Shariq’s house but I suppose what I can believe and what makes me watch this is how Shariq’s marriage to Saba affects them both, how Zoya’s presence affects Saba and what role do Zoya’s family have to play now. With the exception of Sana Javed I feel all the actors and actresses have done justice to their roles, although Saba’s character confuses me at times. These latest episodes have piqued my interest and I am curious to see how all this mess will eventually be wrapped up.
How many of you watched these latest episodes of Intezaar? Would love to hear your thoughts.
Kunwal Javid
Sang e Marmar Episode 01 – An Impressive Start!
Ohkay so, the writing of Mustafa Afridi, direction of Saife Hassan & production of Momina Duraid; Sang e Marmar hit out tv screens tonight. The very first episode introduced the main characters effortlessly. There definitely is a lot more that has yet to unravel, but after watching the first episode, I am definitely looking forward to the tracks of few characters especially.
The drama is set in Ghari Baraan, a small town in the the province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, that is still run on the basis of patriarchal ideology. The leader of the town Baraan Khan dies & that is when his son Gulistan Khan (Noman Ijaz) informs his son Aurang Khan (Mikaal Zulfikar) to come to Ghari Baraan to attend the funeral of his grandfather. Aurang returns to his village after 2 years & going by the way things run in his village & house, it was obvious that Aurang was indifferent to everything, especially his father. Gulistan Khan is someone who holds his family values & the principals set by his father close to his heart, so much so that he has developed this rigidity in his personality in order to keep the ideology of his father alive.
Aurang has two more brothers & a sister; Saifullah Khan (Omair Rana), Gohar Khan & Sherbano (Uzma Hassan). Sherbano is married to her first cousin Torah Khan & it seems like Torah Khan has a past related to his mother that he hasn’t been able to forget & move on from. Gulistan Khan has kept his other sons closer but just because Aurang has chosen a different path in his life, both; the father & the son do not share a cordial relationship with each other. Aurang returns to his village after 2 years & the welcome that he gets shows him the place he holds in his father’s heart, because Gulistan Khan only has a pile of objections related to him, be it related to his dressing, or his detachment from his family or his perspective. Saifullah & Gohar seem to be doing exactly what their father Gulistan wants, but Aurang has other plans & those plans most certainly do not include being involved in the family matters.
Looks like Aurang has a lady love (Kubra Khan) in Ghari Baraan, who is involved in a one-sided love for him. She happens to be Aurang’s childhood friend but ever since, she has only kept him near to her heart. Saif ur Rehman (Tipu Sharif) happens to be the lady love’s brother & the moment he finds out that his sister & her friend gave a ride to Gulistan Khan’s son Aurang because he was running late for his grandfather’s funeral, he gets furious. It looks like Saif ur Rehman does not share a cordial relationship with Gulistan & in general, Gulistan & Baraan Khan have made quite a few enemies throughout their lives but then it is obvious because power & authority always come with a territory.
Sherbano is definitely not happy with her husband & just because she knows that she has a strong backing of her father & her brothers, she gives her husband a hard time, who already is aloof to the world as he is engrossed in the pain of his past, related to his mother. Torah Khan seems to be the most intriguing character & I am definitely looking forward to his track. His entry was quite interesting too where he saved the thief using logic that no one could say no to. I liked how they slightly touched the fact that the people who are known for their religious knowledge tend to change their stance according to their convenience. Mullah didn’t mind suggesting the chopping of hands as per the Islamic rulings but the moment Torah Khan gave him a little bait, he fell for it & that makes Mullah quite a controversial person because it is obvious that he will never stop any barbarism that Gulistan will instigate because he is always going to maintain his rapport with him, as he knows Gulistan’s power quite well.
I liked the bonding of Aurang with his mother (Sania Saeed). She is the only one Aurang feels for & loves endearingly because she is the only one who not only understands Aurang but supports him completely too. Aurang’s mother isn’t oblivious to the detest Aurang has towards his father, that is why she tries to reason with him & try to make him understand his father’s perspective too. Their scenes together were heart-warming & done really really well.
Finally, Sherbano got what she wanted & that was an apology that too after she degraded her husband & she being the one who initiated the fight. Sherbano wants her husband to know that she has the power & she will exploit it to her heart’s content. Gulistan Khan definitely is someone who doesn’t know how to differentiate between emotions & practicality because despite knowing what Gohar did, he made sure that Torah apologizes to Sherbano. Gulistan obviously looks down on his brother’s children because it looks like his brother did something in his life that he certainly doesn’t or didn’t approve of & I am sure it will have something to do with the choice of his life partner, that is Torah’s mother. Torah also has a sister who seems a bit too interested in her cousin Aurang, but we’ll have to see who will eventually become Aurang’s life partner.
Overall, this episode was quite interesting. Even though the setting & the theme of the drama is on the serious side & I am sure it will keep on getting dense as the episodes will progress, but I liked the precise approach of the director where in just a few scenes, he told us about the mentality that Gulistan Khan endorses. I must say I’m glad to see Hassan Noman in this drama, even though he has a side role to play but I am sure he will leave a great impact. It was a treat to watch him in Preet Na Kariyo Koi & I am sure things would be no different in this drama as well. I must say, I am glad that the drama makers are moving outside the vicinity of Karachi city & exploring more places in our dramas, it changes the mood completely & gives you something refreshing to watch. The acting of all the actors was great & I am eager to see what Noman Ijaz has in store for his fans. Definitely looking forward to the next episode. Please share your thoughts about the first episode of Sang e Marmar.
Keep Supporting,
Cheers,
Zahra Mirza.
Mein Sitara Episode 23 – Life Is A Cruel Teacher
This episode showed more of Sitara’s majburis and quite contrary to my expectations Sitara still is no match for people who are so willing to use her. Sitara did not sugarcoat the reasons for coming back to Khawaja because there is nothing sweet about the relationship these two people have. Their relationship is based on the concept of give and take. Khawaja has the money Sitara needs in order to keep her family happy and Sitara has looks to entice people who Khawaja wants to impress. In this episode Sitara’s dream died down completely. Unlike the last episode in which Sitara was still hopeful that her dream of becoming a star might come true, in this episode she was willing to do everything Khawaja wanted her to do in return for money and also if he entered into a nikkah with her. Sitara has obviously forgotten her past experience; a nikkah can be broken in seconds! This episode ended with Khawaja talking to someone on the phone – someone who could most likely be a replacement for Sitara!
Sitara’s mother gladly accepted the gifts given by her without asking what price she paid for them but she made it very clear that Sitara could not attend the wedding. The scene in which Sitara had to watch her sister get married from a distance was very emotional. For some reason Sitara cannot let go of her family. She knows exactly how they feel about her yet she continues to support them and somehow needs their approval. Sitara’s meeting with Farhad was like a desperate attempt to talk to someone who respected her and loved her since there isn’t anyone else in her life now who would give her love or respect. This scene was the highlight of tonight’s episode. It went to show that the Farhad Sitara once knew was gone forever.
Naseem Dil Ruba’s track got some screen time as well in tonight’s episode. This scene showed that Naseem was losing her position in the industry and Jamal was now in a position to reject her proposal. I am waiting to see the downfall of Naseem Dil Ruba.
Saba Qamar looked pretty as usual in tonight’s episode and just like every other week she completely stole the show. The actresses playing Sitara’s mother and sister are newcomers but they are playing their respective roles really well. This episode was slow and somewhat repetitive, definitely not one of the best episodes of Mein Sitara. Nothing exciting happened in tonight’s episode but what we saw was a shift in Sitara’s character; she no longer dreams to be a star but is looking for other ways to ‘secure’ her future. Time and circumstances have completely changed the perspective of a girl who once believed in dreaming big! Sitara is much more practical and ready to be used today than she was before. The nikkah did not take place in this episode but the preview of the next episode suggested that it will take place. The preview of the next episode did not give away much, it only suggested that Sitara’s troubles are far from over.
How many of you watched this latest episode? Do share your thoughts about it.
Films in September 2016
The month of September has started which also includes the festive occassion of Eidul Azha. Atleast three holidays are expected on Eidul Azha which will provide a favorable window for film makers to screen their work and attract the cine goers. From 2013 Eidul Azha has proved the most successful weekend for Urdu cinema where the most successful Urdu film of the year was released on Eidul Azha.
Unlike Eidul Fitr, no major Bollywood film is scheduled to release on Eidul Azha and absence of a major Bollywood film results in better business of local Urdu films.
On the whole four major Urdu films are lined up for September where three will release on Eidul Azha.
Teri Meri Love Story (تیری میری لو اسٹوری)
This film is directed by Jawwad Bashir and is produced in Lahore. It is the second film directed by Jawwad Bashir, where the horror film Maya released last year in June 2015 was his first film. It is releasing on 2nd September 2016
Jawwad Bashir a multi-talented person is mainly known for directing sitcoms, music videos and Ufone commercials. He was also part of a music band Dr. Aur Billa active in 1990s and also acted in various sitcoms. Ushnah Shah, Omer Shahzad, Leyla Zuberi are making their debut on big screen from this film.
Cast: Salman Shahid,Leyla Zuberi,Mohib Mirza,Uzma Khan,Ushna Shah,Mohsin Abbas Haider,Ahmed Abdul Rehman,Omer Shahzad,,Hassan Khan & Jawad Bashir
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Release Date: 2nd September 2016
Director of Photography:Farhan Golden
Production Designer:Sami Ullah
First Assistant Director:Ahmed Waqas
Choreographer:Nigah Hussain
Music By:Afzal Hussain & Ahsan Pervez
Hair Make up & Styling :Madiha Qaiser
Wardrobe:Hira Zeeshan
Wardrobe Consultant :Roshanay Ghumman
Co Producer:Muhammad Ehtisham
Produced by :Summit Entertainment
Written by:Jawad Bashir & Ahmed Abdul Rehman
Directed by :Jawad Bashir
Distributed by: Summit Entertainment
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TeriMeriLoveStory2016
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yx6j-gq9wFs
Janaan (جانان)
Janaan (جانان)is scheduled to release on Eidul Azha on 12th or 13th September. Considered as the major film coming on Eid as it is distributed by ARY Films which to date is the most successful distributor of Urdu films. Famous anchor person Reham Khan is the co-producer for this film. It is also one of the very few main stream Urdu films which is based on a Pakhtoon family and is not a terrorism based film. The film is produced in Islamabad.
The three main characters of this film are Meena (Armeena Rana Khan), Asfandyar (Bilal Ashraf) and Daniyal (Ali Rehman Khan). The title track of this film is in the voice of famous Indian singer Armaan Malik. It also features a Pashto song.
Cast: Armeena Rana Khan, Ali Rehman, Bilal Ashraf, Mishi Khan, Ajab Gul, Nayyar Ejaz, Hania Aamir, Usman Muktar, DJ Panni & Jalal Haider.
Release Date: Eid Ul Azha 2016 on 12th or 13th September
Genre: Romantic comedy
Directed By: Azfar Jafri
Written By: Usman Khalid Butt
Produced by: Reham Khan, Hareem Farooq, Munir Hussain & Imran Raza Kazmi
DOP: Rana Kamran
Production Company: IRK Films in association with Munir Hussain Films, PEPE’S PIRI PIRI Group
Distributor: ARY Films
Music By: Salim Suleman, Ahmad Ali & Taha Malik
Post Production: Kantana Post Production (Thailand)
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JanaanOfficial
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TBAZkttoMsE
Actor In Law (ایکٹر ان لاء)
Actor In Law is coming on Eidul Azha on 12th or 13th September. The team behind Namaloom Afraad which was the most successful film of 2014 are back with Actor in Law. Namaloom Afraad was also released on Eidul Azha in 2014.
The team of Nabeel Qureshi (director), Fizza Ali Meerza (producer), Mehwish Hayat (cameo) and Fahad Mustafa (lead artist) who were in Namaloom Afraad will be seen again in this film. Like Namaloom Afraad it is also produced and shot in Karachi.
Actor In Law has Fahad Mustafa in the lead role like Namaloom Afraad paired with Mehwish Hayat. Mehwish Hayat also played a cameo appearance in Namaloom Afraad in the item song of Billi. Another highlight of Actor In Law is the presence of acclaimed Indian artist Om Puri.
The film features songs in the voices of Asrar, Atif Aslam and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan. It is distributed by the Urdu 1.
Film: Actor In Law
Cast:Fahad Mustafa,Mehwish Hayat,Alyy Khan,Om Puri,Saboor Ali,Irfan Motiwala,Rehan Sheikh,Lubna Aslam,Saleem Mairaj,Saife Hassan,Rashid Khawaja
Release Date: Eid Ul Azha 2016 on 12th or 13th September
Genre: Socio-comedy
Written by:Fizza Ali Meerza
Directed by:Nabeel Qureshi
Produced by:Fizza Ali Meerza, Mehdi Ali
Music by:Shani Arshad
Cinematography:Rana Kamran
Production company: Filmwala Pictures
Distributed by: Urdu 1
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/actorinlawthefilm/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a673oahgJLU
Zindagi Kitni Haseen Hai (زندگی کتنی حسین ہے)
Zindagi Kitni Haseen Hai (زندگی کتنی حسین ہے) is the third film releasing on Eidul Azha on 12th or 13th September.Produced and shot in Karachi it stars Sajal Ali and Feroze Khan in the lead roles. It is the debut film for both these.
This film is distributed by Geo Films a major distributor of Urdu films.
Film: Zindagi Kitni Haseen Hai (زندگی کتنی حسین ہے)
Cast: Sajal Aly, Feroze Khan, Alyy Khan, Rashid Farooqi, Nayyar Ejaz, Shafqat Cheema and Jibrayl Ahmed Rajput
Genre: Family Drama – Romance
Release Date: Eid Ul Azha 2016 on 12th or 13th September
Music: Soch
Director: Anjum Shahzad
Written by: Abdul Khaaliq Khan
Executive Producer: Jahanzaib Quadir
Producer: Rafiq Ahmed Chaudhry, Fahmeeda Abdul Khaliq
Production House: RC Films, King fisher films
Distributor: Geo Films
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZKHHthefilm/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o5UhHhwhehc
So it sums up this compilation of Urdu films coming in September 2016. Keep supporting Pakistani cinema.
Trailer courtesy of PakistaniCinema Fan page channel
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAgBFzV3J4hrbRMcBcsehvg
https://www.facebook.com/PakistaniCinema
Rashid Nazir Ali
Hamza Ali Abbasi Received Notice from Punjab Government!
One of the most famous social media personality Hamza Ali Abbasi posted on his Facebook page that the Government of Punjab has sent him a prosecution notice accusing him for spreading ‘false rumours’ about children kidnappings in the province.
It is true that previously Hamza did posted on Facebook regarding the children kidnapping in Pakistan. It was not only him but many other people also posted regarding this issue. But it seems only Hamza is in the lime light and the officials of Government didn’t like that and that is why sent notice to Hamza.
Fawad Khan has changed his perception says Ranbir Kapoor!
Ranbir Kapoor appreciates Fawad Khan for being Bold! As it is already known that Fawad Khan did a character of gay in his Bollywood film Kapoor and sons, lately Ranbir Kapoor said that now he can play a gay character, as Fawad Khan has already done it.
In a statement Ranbir shared that he was not that comfortable to play a character of homosexual, but now Fawad khan has changed his perception by playing such character in Kapoor and Sons.
When a media person asked him that will now play such a character Ranbir said: “Sure, but now it’s already been done. Now he’s (Fawad has) opened the door and it’s easy for us to walk through it. But earlier… I must honestly say I might have turned it down.”
Om Puri insists that Pakistani Films should be released in India.
These days Om Puri is busy promoting his Pakistani Film Actor in Law in Pakistan. While talking to media in Faislabad Om Puri insisted that Pakistani Films should be released in India.He said, “Pakistani films should also be released in India”.
Om Puri will be seen acting alongside Fahad Mustafa and Mehwish Hayat in the upcoming movie Actor in law. Its Om Puri’s sixth visit to Pakistan, he shared that citizens of both countries truly respect each other. Om puri also said, “The future of Pakistan’s film industry is very bright”.
Film “I am Edhi” will star Naseeruddin Shah as Abdul Sattar Edhi
The film producer Hamid Salman will be making a film on Abdul Sattar Edhi in which Naseeruddin Shah will play Edhi’s Character. No doubt that Pakistan is facing a great loss after the death of the noble man “EDHI” and this initiative of making a film and paying attribute to the legend is worth appreciation.
Hamid Salman held a press conference at Lahore Press Club and announced that he will be making the film, ”I am Edhi”. By making the film Hamid Salman wants to thank and honour Edhi’s unlimited contribution towards humanity. Further Salman also shared that he plans to donate ten percent of the film’s revenue to Edhi Foundation.
As Naseeruddin Shah has given excellent performances previously in movies like Iqbal, Paar and Dirty Picture, it is expected he will do justice to Edhi’s role. This film will not be Shah’s first Pakistani film, he has previously done Khuda Kay Liye and Zinda Bhaag.
Tum Kon Piya Episodes 22 & 23 – Love Conquers All
Both these episodes of Tum Kon Piya were very enticing. Even though the story isn’t new but the direction and the way the script has been written make this drama better than many other dramas with similar stories. Also, there is always some twist in the story which is not clichéd. The drama has picked up pace and the story is headed towards an ending. Sunbal and Ramish’s track ended last week with Sunbal making a wise decision for a change. The dialogue mohabbat agr bakhshish mein miley tu mein kisi ko na pane ka azab hi prefer karu gi gave me a reason to like a character which wasn’t very likeable before. Sunbal decided to go abroad even though Ramish tried to stop her – that was definitely refreshing. Hira Tareen is stylish, confident and her dialogue delivery is very clear – she has a new fan! Sunbal’s decision goes to show that she is a wise girl with tons of self-respect even though she has made some mistakes in the past but she knows exactly what she wants now.
Thankfully Elma’s track did not get more depressing in these two episodes but things changed for the better. Sharafat Begum after being mistreated by her own son realized how wrong she was. This realization came right before she was diagnosed with Cancer. Watching Elma care for her made her even more sorry for everything she had put Elma through. This development was predictable but even then all the scenes and dialogues which showed how sorry she was were very emotional and gratifying as well. Sharafat begum raised a monster and now she is the one who is suffering because of him more than anyone else. Elma on the other hand was raised by a father who was completely different from Sharafat begum which is why she has a personality which is poles apart from Sharafat begum’s children. This drama goes to show that most often your children are a reflection of you but it does not promote stereotypes because Ramish is not like his parents.
Ramish’s mother’s deteriorating health and Neha’s attitude in this situation was also endearing. These girls are a blessing for everyone they come across and although Ramish Hassan was raised by parents who did not believe in the same values as Waqar Hassan but he is very different from his parents. Ramish’s support for Elma and generally his attitude towards all those people he comes across has been shown in such a way that you can’t help but like his character. He is fair in his dealings and even though he loves Elma, he has never been selfish. He wants Elma to have a happy life even if it means that she will never be a part of his life. Neha’s dialogues about how helping others can give a meaning to your life were on point. Although some of the characters in this drama are too good to be true but they are at the same time easy to connect to because of the way they have been translated on screen.
These two episodes of Tum Kon Piya are a must watch because there were some major developments in these episodes, they were directed brilliantly and all the actors played their parts flawlessly. Yasir Nawaz has proved that he is a very skillful director and the writer Maha Malik has made changes in the original story which make it more interesting. The dialogues are impressive mostly because of the choice of words. All the actors in this drama have done complete justice to their respective characters. There are times when Imran Abbas appears to be slightly disinterested but in these two episodes he played his part perfectly.
Arif and Rania will probably end up losing all their money and that is when Arif will realize the importance of family. Although Arif’s character is a negative one but it is very well etched-out, you understand his insecurities and complexes. I thoroughly enjoyed the latest developments and am eagerly looking forward to the next episode.
How many of you watched these two episodes? Do share your thoughts about it.
Ayeza Khan – Biography, Wedding Pics, Daughter, Dramas, Danish Taimoor
Coke Studio 9 Episode 4 Promo is Out!
After the three successful episodes of Coke Studio, the promo of fourth episode is out. There is a very interesting line up of the singers in episode four. Coke studio has gathered Jabar Abbas and Nirmal Roy, Noori and Shilpa Rao, Mohsin Abbas Haider and Meesha Shafi along with Naeem Abbas Rufi.
Let’s see what engaging songs does fourth episode produces.
Shilpa Rao makes her Debut in Coke studio 9
This season improvements in Coke Studio 9 are becoming quite evident. As for entertaining the audience with diverse but splendid music numbers Coke Studio has lately roped Bollywood singer Shilpa Rao. Shilpa Rao has sang very famous songs in Bollywood like Ishq Shawa from the movie Jab Tak Hai Jaan , Khuda Jaane by the film Bachna Ae Haseeno and Meherbaan by the film Bang Bang.
This Friday Shilpa’s song in coke studio will be out let’s see what magic will she create with Pakistani musicians. This interesting collaboration is creating high expectations from coke studio.
Shilpa Rao revealed, “I met Noori in Delhi for lunch at a common friends’ gathering,” said Rao. “We hung out, sang songs together and that is when they asked me to come to Pakistan and sing for Coke Studio. I agreed – Ali took it very seriously and actually got me here to record the song. It’s basically musicians bonding with each other. One song can make you friends for life – that is the power of music!
Regarding Coke studio she said “It is a place where all the musicians are in an environment where they have their instruments, their space and the freedom to choose anything and convey it to the people in their own style; it’s very powerful.”
Dumpukht- Atish-e-Ishq Episode 8
Murshid Sayeein toh kaam se Gaye... Out of everyone present at the ceremony, it was Nimmo who was quick to notice Habibullah’s inclination towards Kulchu. While Kulchu was feeling uncomfortable at the mere thought of such a possibility, Nimmo logically deduced “Woh dono ka couple bohut mismatched hein”… Even someone as young and inexperienced as Nimmo can see the obvious which further proves how completely blinded the rest of them are by the Murshids.
Habibullah was restless after seeing Kulchu and we got an insight into his silent musings over his lost love-Aur Tum dobara apna chehra lekey aik nayi wujood ke saath mere samney agayi ho… Paanch saal baad… Habibullah’s Meera bears a striking resemblance to Kulchu which seems to have effected him more than he realized. He couldn’t help eavesdropping on Bilal’s conversation with Kukchu and he sneered at Bilal’s presence and ultimate asked him to return home to his mother.
Poor Bilal- I felt sorry for his plight because he is truly going above and beyond. Kuttey jaisi halath hogayi hai Meri… Tere Haroon Bhai aur Murshid Sayeein ke agey peechay dum hilaata rehta houn…
Murshid Sayeein ka remote Bibi Sahiba ke haath mein hein… Bilal has also realized that It is Bibi Sahiba who calls the shots. As expected, Bibi Sahiba had an outburst hearing Bilal was sent home- Yeh koi langar Ki roti nahin ke adha adha karke baat diya do mureedon ke beech aur woh Bhi mujhse pochay baghair? But very cunningly she played her cards right- Gaddi toh badshahat hoti hai… Uska ek hi faisla ek hi soch honi chahiyeh… Aur unsool toh yeh he na ke Mera faisla toh aap mansookh kardte hein Magar apka faisla mein mansookh nahin karsakti…
Bibi Sahiba is careful in manipulating Habibullah- she pushes him but pulls back in a timely manner. Looking at her smirk made me certain that this is exactly what she wanted- she’s not the kind of lady who would allow anything against her will. But what’s she really after? Only time will tell. Sawaal choti Bari baat ka nahin, Meri zabaan ka hai…
Tahira continues cursing and blurting obscenities which leads to a heated debate and almost brings it to the point of divorce. Tahira’s arrogance clouds her judgement and she’s feeling frustrated that things aren’t going her way- Hum toh naslon se unkey aqeedatmand hain… But when her husband shares his thoughts about Murshid Sayeein’s suggestion that Bilal and Kulsoom can move into their Dargah waley ghar, she rejoices and finally sees the light at the end of the tunnel. Her hatred towards Bilal is so intense-Churay Ki aukaad badaljayegi…
I really liked the scene when Bilal comes to meet Kulsoom- the two of them light up the screen with their amazing chemistry. Kulsoom is certain that Seedha rasta hamari zindagi mein hein hi nahin… Kar apni maa Ki kidmat ya Phir kar Meri maa ke marney ka intezaar… And after seeing Kulchu’s negative reaction, Bilal feels discouraged.
I’m loving every moment of Dumpukht and it continues to keep me glued to the TV. This is turning out into a powerfully captivating serial and I can’t wait for what comes next. The preview hinted at Habibullah being the one to put a ring on Kulsoom’s finger. Let’s see how that shapes up. Thoughts/ Comments/ Emotional Outbursts?
Kanwal Murtaza
Mangoes Season 2 Official Trailer Released
Produced by Suhurwardy Brothers Mangoes TV Series become a huge hit when its season 1 was released in 2012. Comprising of 6 six episodes only it was definitely a breathe of fresh air in Pakistani Sitcoms Department.
The story of first season revolved around three South Asian room mates and problems they are encountered with while living in Toronta, Canada. The opening theme song “Keh Dena” received massive gratitude by the audience as it was sung by legend Alamgir together with canadian singer Christie Yung.
First Season was obviously incomplete as it got finished vaguely. There was much anticipation about Season 2 and finally after 4 years of Gap Suhurwardy Brothers decided to release Mangoes Season 2. Let’s see what Season 2 will offer us, here is the link to watch trailer of Mangoes Season 2:
Laaj – An Overview (Episodes 1-5)
Produced and directed by Moomal Productions and Fahim Burney and written by Saima Wasi, Erum Wasi and Edison Idrees Masih, Laaj airs every Saturday on HUM TV at 8pm.
Laaj is the story of two feuding families in rural Punjab. We are introduced to the family of Bari Sahab (Asma Abbas) and her two sons Jahanzeb (Kamran Jillani) and Shahzeb (Mirza Zain Baig). Zainab (Zarnish Khan) is Baris Sahab’s dead sister’s daughter and has lived with Bari Sahab since her mother died when she was little. Jahanzeb has been married earlier to Meena and has a daughter Mannat (Iqra Aziz) who has been raised primarily by Zainab after Meena’s death.
Sikander (Nayyar Ejaz) is Bari Sahab’s dead husband’s brother and the two have been at loggerheads with each other over the family property and lands. Sikander feels Bari Sahab has been unfair and has not given him his due share in the family jaidaad. He lives with his son Dilawar (Saleem Sheikh), Dilawar’s wife and his grandson Chooza, I mean Sajjad. In a gesture of goodwill to mend the relations between the two families Mannat is wed to Sajjad.
Sikander apparently had underlying motives behind agreeing to the marriage and suggests that Bari Sahab transfer a certain land in his name or face Mannat getting divorced to which Bari Sahab opts for the latter. Overhearing Sajjad make fun of Mannat after the divorce, Jahanzeb in a fit of rage has Sajjad murdered. Sikander vows to make Bari Sahab’s family pay but he wants her to suffer and we do not know as yet what he has his up his sleeve.
Zainab has been in love with Jahanzeb since umm, forever and never misses an opportunity to tell him that. He keeps telling her he is not interested but she keeps harping along the lines of ‘ishq kiya hai, love me or not I will annoyingly, obsessively, stalkerishly (my words, not hers) love you till I die’. Mannat is in love with Shahmeer, a young man from the village who is not as well off as Bari Sahab’s family is and works for her family. The two are in love but feel, rather believe nothing can come of their love as Bari Sahab would never agree to such a match.
Let’s not forget Shahzeb – the educated, younger son who is a misfit amongst the family and their fueds. He is interested in Alisha (Sabeeka Imam) but has not yet had the nerve to broach the subject of marriage to Bari Sahab. Mirza Zain Baig is very unimpressive in Dillagi but as the educated misfit he seems to be doing a decent job – or maybe the flashy waistcoats have diverted my attention from his acting! I wonder if this couple has much to offer to the story beyond the flashy waistcoats and Sabeeka Imam’s duck mouth pouts. At the end of the latest episode, Alisha has shown up at Shahzeb’s haveli, Zainab is flinging herself for the zillionth time at Jahanzeb and he has rebuffed her advances for the zillionth time, and Bari Sahab comes upon Mannat and Shahmeer meeting alone.
Why am I watching Laaj? I am not entirely sure. The set, the scenes, the clothes are all very colourful and visually pleasing. Zarnish Khan is a good actress although I find her accent fluctuates from being normal to more village like. Kamran Jillani as Jahanzeb has impressed me if I am very honest for his expressions, his accent, his body language fits his role to a T. Another person who seems to have fit into her role like a glove is Asma Abbas as Bari Sahab. With her big eyes outlined and the severe black clothing and the constant hukka, she does look intimidating. The constant hukka does remind me of the trains cartoon my son used to watch and I wonder if she needs to be a Chuggington in every scene but oh well. The actor playing Shahmeer is truly bechara, and Iqra Aziz is sigh, Iqra Aziz with her only acting skills being limited to eyes narrowing and widening a centimetre and the same with her lips. A clogs-less Iqra Aziz however is refreshing to see!
The storyline itself. I tuned in knowing this was a story of zamindars and fueds but I was pleasantly surprised to see that these ‘angry people’ did more than just shout and get angry and beat each other up. Although Bari Sahab and Jahanzeb are shown to be short with the driver or the women working in the house at times, but then the questions about Shameer’s mother’s health and sending his father to the city for a medical checkup show they are not heartless. I like Bari Sahab’s relationship with Zainab too when she tells her that the haveli people should be scared of her and not Zainab. I do wonder though why Zainab has not told Bari Sahab she loves Jahanzeb. I also wondered at Bari Sahab not thinking of wedding Zainab to either of her sons but that was clarified when she says to the rishtay wali that she does not want people to think that she kept Zainab in her home for greed of her jaidaad and feels she must marry outside the family. Jahanzeb is often seen to be looking mournfully and talking to his dead wife’s picture which shows he must have loved her a great deal.
I found the age differences hard to figure or relate to at first and I suppose by the fifth episode I just got used to it. But what confused me was Jahanzeb saying to Zainab to think about their age difference as if there were a huge gap. Then Zainab looks hardly much older than Mannat, but she raised her like a mother. So if Zainab is that old, then why has Bari Sahab not gotten her married, despite her protests that she does not want to wed but surely she would not have a 30 something niece sitting at home and not worry about her marriage? Kamran Jillani could possibly pass off as a father of a teenager but suggesting he is much older than Zainab did not make sense.
I find Zainab type characters in our drama hard to link to real life. Does a woman really become like that that she is constantly declaring her love to responses of constant rejection and carry on with a smile on her face content that she has done her duty to love the man of her life with all her heart – heart accepted or not, be damned! She does give in to frustration I agree and sometimes yells at Jhanzeb or has a meltdown but I almost gagged at the conversations she and Jahanzeb often have such as when she tells him ‘Zaida ghussa na kia karein’ and he asks ‘kyun’ and she says ‘Aur pyar aata hai’….uggh!
The story so far is not outstanding and maybe Laaj would not be on my top dramas list but despite the loopholes, it is the acting so far and the fact that I am waiting for the ‘punch’ in the storyline which makes me feel I may keep wanting to watch it. It does have a filmy touch to it and all the jhumkas and bangles clanging all the time got a bit much for me. The promos show that Jahanzeb will be arrested but I wonder where the story goes from there. Recommended watch? Yes, if you have the time and want to watch something where the acting does not make you wince and the characters are not so cliché. I am not gushing (obviously) but I am not entirely put off either! How many of you are following Laaj and what do you think of it so far? Would love to hear your thoughts.
Kunwal Javid
Saya-e-Dewar Bhi Nahin Episode 4 – Unimpressive!
This episode opened with Haider submitting to the decision of the jirga because he could not see his Taya suffer the consequences of his actions. The conversation between Bibi jaan and her daughter and the ones between Tahira and her mother had absolutely no impact for two reasons. Bibi Jaan’s character is very confusing; I am still not sure which side of her is real!! I am all for grey characters but she goes from loving Shehla to treating her like she is a nobody in no time. After everything she said to Shehla in the previous episode, it was impossible to relate to her feelings for her “daughter”! She was shown saying to Shah Sb that she didn’t want to raise Shehla but had to because he forced her to and now tonight she told Shehla she lost a baby and when Shah Sb brought Shehla she felt like she got her baby girl back! Bibi Jaan’s character isn’t making a lot of sense right now. The actress playing Tahira does not know how to act, I am surprised that she is getting so much work! There is absolutely no variation in her acting, her dialogue delivery is flat and her expressions confusing. Same is true for the actress playing her mother.
The visit to the Mazar and all of Shehla’s conversation with the maid seemed like filler scenes – I am still wondering why they got so much screen time. All of Shehla’s efforts, her emotions and even her conversation with Haider fell flat because of Naveen Waqar’s terrible portrayal and dialogues which were not very touching. She looked good playing the bubbly Shehla but she isn’t very impressive playing the emotional fool who has no control over herself. Shah Sb’s concern for his children and his helplessness was the only part of this episode which I could relate to, rest of it did not work for me at all.
Mansoor and his father just like Bibi Jaan are showing their true colors now. Mansoor’s father does not respect his wife or women in general which is why Mansoor is the same. I am wondering now how could Shah Sb not know this about him since they are bachpan ke dost! Once again a character which was shown as a positive one has been turned into a villain all of a sudden. Mansoor is greedy and he does not respect women therefore Shehla is going to face a very tough time once she gets married to him. Emaad Irfani’s acting too was unimpressive in this episode and Irfan Khoosat is a complete misfit for playing this role. Mansoor found out in tonight’s episode that Shehla was not Shah Sb’s real daughter but that doesn’t change much because he is not marrying her, he is marrying the money and status which he will get automatically once he marries her.
So far, this drama is getting worse with every passing episode already! None of the characters or actors are standing out in any of the roles. There is zero chemistry between the actors and even the most emotional scenes fail to have an impact. The preview of the next episode promised some drama – Shehla will do something extreme after Haider tells her once again that they don’t have a future together. So far the only episode of this drama which was better out of all the 4 which have gone air was the 1st one. The previous episode was full of loop holes and this one was unimpressive to say the least.
How many of you watched this episode of SDBN? Do share your thoughts about it.
P.S. The review of Tum Kon Piya will be posted tomorrow.