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Deewana – Episode 23 & 24!

Zahra Mirza
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Deewana – Episode 23 & 24!

Ohkay so, the drama has come at that stage where things have not only become monotonous but have also become stagnant too. It’s been quite a few episodes now that things aren’t moving forward & all the situations & scenarios are looking repetitive. I really enjoy watching this drama so I really hope that they don’t ruin it by dragging things to a point where Deewana loses its charm completely. I really think the story should move forward because this drama has a very few characters so slowing down the pace makes all the characters look like fillers actually.

Haris has waged a war against his so-called parents. He knows that they never really treated him as a son & only gave him favors because first he was a toy for Rabeea & after her death, he became a pawn that they used, to play their mind games. Haris has understood that more than him needing Amtul & Tabrez, they both are the ones who need Haris the most as they have planned their revenge on Subhan & his family keeping Haris in their minds. Amtul & Tabrez thought that they had hired a lifelong slave who will do everything that his masters will tell him to & it was actually their misapprehension to believe that Haris didn’t have a mind & heart of his own. Even though I know that Tabrez won’t succumb to Haris’s pressures, but in the meantime, the tension that has overtaken their lives is well-deserved & much needed. I guess it’s about time that Amtul & Tabrez realize that they need to snap out of the hatred they have towards everyone because they are earning nothing out of it.

Shama has lost all the faith in Mehru that’s why she actually felt the need to guard the entrance to Mehru’s room. It is at times sad to see a mother having no confidence in her child & holding her responsible for all the problems that their family is facing. I think Shama should sympathize with Mehru in stead & she should actually console her as her daughter has endured way more pain than Shama can imagine. Mehru has finally addressed the elephant in the room & she has told her mother that she is in love with Falak. I am not sure if that’s something that she is saying under the influence of the spell that Falak must’ve cast on her or that are her genuine feelings for him, but I guess Mehru actually has fallen for Falak because like Falak said, he didn’t do anything to Mehru & he is not the one controlling her mind & heart.

What Subhan tried doing to Mehru was downright evil & I don’t really understand both Shama & Subhan as parents nor I want to because they are on a self-pity spree & I find it ridiculous how they believe that Mehru is the root cause of entire emotional trauma that they are facing? How can Subhan forget that it is his own brother Tabrez who has made things difficult for them & why does he forget that Mehru has suffered because of his brother Tabrez too? I find it absolutely irrational of Subhan & Shama to be forgetting everything that Amtul & Tabrez did & for treating Mehru as someone who invited these troubles on their entire family, whereas being parents, they should be the ones who should be extending moral support to her.

All of Husn Ara’s fears are coming through. She dreaded that things might get serious between Falak & Mehru but that still happened against her will, then she also assumed that Mehru will never confess her love for Falak but they both found out that she finally did that too in front of Shama. Now Husn Ara knows that Falak is going to be unstoppable as he knows what Mehru feels for him. Husn Ara can’t go back to her world as she herself is protecting her family from Agha. I am not sure what role Agha has to play in their lives but I wish that his character makes an appearance soon as that might make things a tad bit interesting & he will definitely break the monotony. Gaiti & Shabnam’s scenes didn’t offer a comic relief this time around as they are looking purposeless too. Shabnam wants Gaiti to get married to Haris & Gaiti has fallen in love with Falak & there’s nothing more to their track right now.

Honestly speaking, these two episodes were actually hard to sit through, plus my concise review is also an evidence of the fact that I didn’t get anything special to talk about in this week’s episodes. I feel that it’s been quite a while that the situations & the actions of the characters are on the loop where Shama taunts Mehru & Subhan, Amtul & Tabrez torture Haris mentally, Mehru laughs & cries alternatively, Husn Ara reminds Falak how he should maintain a distance from Mehru, Falak tries to make Mehru happy & Gaiti & Shabnam are seen bickering with each other mostly & that’s all that has been happening which is making it hard to keep the interest alive in the show. I still believe that this drama & the story itself has a lot of potential & there might be a lot in store for us but I hope they take things forward quickly because it is becoming a bit monotonous. Please share your thoughts about these two episodes of Deewana.

Keep Supporting,
Cheers,
Zahra Mirza.

Shamim Ara passed away

Rashid Nazir Ali
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Shamim Ara passed away

Iconic film artist, director and producer Shamim Ara (شمیم آراء) has passed away in London today after a prolonged illness. She was in coma for past several years.

Shamim Ara was the leading face of the Pakistani Urdu cinema in 1960s when most of her successful films as heroine were released. Her successful heroes were Darpan, Santosh Kumar, Waheed Murad and Aijaz.

Born in Aligarh, United Province, British India in 1938 her actual name was Putli Bai. She migrated to Pakistan after 1947 after British India is partitioned. Here she started her film career from the film Kanwari Bewah (1956).  She rose to prominence in 1960s when many of her successful films like  Saheli(1960), Qaidi (1962), Chingari (1964), Farangi (1964), Naila (1965), Aag Ka Darya (1966), Doraha (1967),Lakhon Mein Eik (1967), Saiqa (1968) and Salgirah (1968) were released.

She was the heroine of the first colored film of West Pakistan Naila in 1965 which proved quite successful.

In the late 1960s she became a film producer by producing Saiqa in 1968 which proved successful. In 1970s she also ventured in the film direction by directing Jeeo aur Jeene Do in 1976. She became a prominent director of Urdu cinema and continued film direction through out 1980s and 1990s. Her famous films as a director are Playboy (1978), Miss Hong Kong (1979), Miss Singapore, Miss Columbo, Lady Smuggler (1987), Lady Commando (1989), Hathi Mere Sathi (1993) and Munda Bidga Jaaye (1995). Kaun Banega Ka Crorepati in 2002 was her last movie as a director.

In the late 1990s she suffered a severe stroke and after 2002 she permanently shifted to London to live with her only son Salman Iqbal.

Shamim Ara married four times in her life. Her first marriage was with a Baloch sardar named Sardar Rind in the 1960s which ended due to the death of the Sardar Rind in a traffic accident. In the late 1960s she married Kareem Majeed who was the head of Agfa Films a company which supplied the film negative material.She has a son named Salman from this marriage which eventually ended in divorce. The third marriage was with the film director Fariduddin Ahmed which ended in divorce within a week. Her fourth and last marriage was with film writer Dabeerul Hassan which ended due to the death of Dabeerul Hassan in 2014.

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Rashid Nazir Ali

Tum Yaad Aye – Episode 26

Kunwal Javid
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Tum Yaad Aye – Episode 26

I was glad to see on ARY’s facebook page that this is the second last episode of the drama. Surprising as it is that it has managed to hold our interest past the 25 episode mark, it definitely is time for it to wrap up before the viewers begin to feel it is dragging. Today’s episode showed the characters’ lives move forward and not entirely how I may have predicted.

If Novera spent even half as much time working on her own marriage than she did worrying and trying to poke her nose into Zainy’s marriage, she could have possibly made things work for herself and Sherry. Her smiling face when she offers to take Zainy shopping sent alarm bells ringing in my head and true to form, she did not disappoint as we learn she rang Ahmer to come and take Zainy home. Zainy is pregnant and Novera takes it upon herself to inform Ahmer. ‘Shauhar tailormade nahin miltay. Mera shauhar tumharay leeyay utra tha, lekin mila mujhay’. How interesting. True, Zainy herself did not wish to be with Sherry but if Novera realized he really was not meant to be hers, then why ‘sawaar’ herself on Sherry’s head?!

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I am not sure if Sherry knew Novera rang Ahmer or had asked her to ring him but he was definitely on Team Novera when he spoke to Yusuf later about how the right thing for Zainy to do is to go back to Ahmer. Yusuf has always been very encouraging to the extent of being borderline pushy when it comes to Zainy’s education but I do not think he was wrong to say that they could have waited a few days and let Zainy give her exams. But then later, when Zainy says to Ahmer that giving CSS is her father’s dream, he was not entirely off the mark when he said she had not come to his house to fulfil her father’s dreams. While I find he is wrong to forbid her to meet her father, I do think Zainy’s stance about her exams, education and career is a bit off since these were things she had not discussed and come to a mutual agreement with Ahmer about before marriage and yes, we may say women have the right to do with that they want even if they are married but my personal opinion and the way our society is, makes me think that for Zainy to be so firm about giving these exams and the way she argues with Ahmer rather than rationally discussing it with him, when it was not something they had both mutually agreed on before is a bit out of line. Especially when she justifies it as something that her father wanted to do – the very father she yelled at and gave no respect to in front of Ahmer. (Ambien) But then Ahmer reacts to her attitude by going out of control and that just makes things worse. Anyhow, what Ahmer also said to her about how she could be a bit calm when he is angry and vice versa makes sense but probably not for these two for they are like two peas in a pod as far as maturity, anger and sense is concerned.

With Novera riling Ahmer up, he emotionally blackmails her into telling Yusuf she will not be meeting him again. His reply to her was very sweet and emotional. It was probably what she needed to hear and we see Zainy moving on with her life with Ahmer. We see a different side to Ahmer now where he thinks nothing of using his wife’s beauty to his advantage like when he tries to convince her to act in the Ruby Soap commercial. ‘ Meray dil ki awaz Ruby Soap’ what a tagline, LOL! No wonder Zainy said no, although the reasons she cited were obviously different! Aslam Sleazeball/Sb tells Zainy that Ahmer has committed on her behalf to act in his upcoming serial and has also taken an advance off him. He sends Ahmer away on the pretence of checking out a location for a shoot and while Ahmer later swears he did not know of Aslam’s intentions, I am still unclear about the advance. Did he commit and take the advance or was that also a fabrication on Aslam’s part?

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Even though Sherry is hell bent on making sure Zainy stays with Ahmer and does not speak to her but when she reaches out for his help, he appears and takes her home. She asks to be taken to Yusuf’s house, saying she wants nothing to do with Ahmer but he drops her back at Ahmer’s house and tells her ‘ Tum ek guzray huay pal mein jeenay wali larki ho. Yeh jang tumhari hai jo tumhein he larna hoga. Apni iss laraayi ko doosron par masalat na karo’. I feel Sherry is being harsh for Zainy is clearly miserable and feels she has made a mistake so just because she is pregnant now, Sherry is letting his own feelings for her overrule what is actually probably better for Zainy. Sigh, a glitch in angel Sherry’s character. Zainy is immature, makes nonsensical and impulsive decisions but after how Ahmer treated her when he locked her in her room and then this incident at Aslam’s house I would think Sherry should have let her gone to Yusuf’s house and his own feelings for her are overshadowing and clouding his judgement for what may be better for Zainy.

Ahmer – yet again earnest, yet again declaring his undying love, yet again asks for another chance. And Zainy relents. Time passes, Zainy’s baby arrives and we see Yusuf is unwell and confined to a wheelchair. Novera, the ever ‘tactful’ Novera feels he can not recover from whatever illness seems to have overcome Yusuf. Ahmer seems to quite busy with his production business but not doing so well for he is unable to pay all the household expenses. Whatever happened to Zainy’s CSS result? When he promises her that she and the baby are his responsibility, is that when it was decided Zainy would give up her pursuit of her career? I may be digressing here but seriously why did Phuppo never get married and have a family of her own? She is nice looking, a reasonable and sensible woman – did she not deserve more in life than to pick up after her crazy brothers and their crazy offspring?!

I have really enjoyed this drama so far and I like the twists and turns and unexpected events the writer has thrown our way, which has kept this drama interesting. Seher Afzal as with every episode has acted really well in this episode and Muneeb Butt (yes I know a lot of us are not fans) – but he has fit well into the character of Ahmer. The OST and the visuals give a very ‘slow’ look to the drama but after the first few episodes, the drama has been anything but slow.Next week’s preview shows that Beena is back (or maybe she had never really left) and we see Zainy with Yusuf and then a much older Zainy meeting an older Sherry. So I suppose Sherry and Zainy do not end up together now at least – maybe in their ‘barhappa’? Looking forward to the last episode and seeing how this all ends. Any guesses as to whether Sherry and Zainy end up together – ever?! Would love to hear your thoughts!

Kunwal Javid

Mein Sitara Season 2 – Episodes 18 & 19

Fatima Awan
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Mein Sitara Season 2 – Episodes 18 & 19

After watching these two episodes of Mein Sitara, I am more convinced than ever that Mein Sitara is the best play of this season and will remain on top of my list for a very long time. Every character in this drama has a story to tell and all these stories are not only interlinked but equally interesting. This drama is surely the most underrated and under appreciated drama of the year. It might not be getting the ‘ratings’ it deserves but people who are watching it find it very difficult not to fall in love with it because it has a powerful script, an amazing cast which is meant to play the characters assigned to them and the detail and precision with which this drama has been directed is exemplary. Watching this drama is like reading a beautiful novel; every page holds your attention and you can’t wait to turn the page to find out what is going to happen next. I am in love with all the characters in this play because they are not one dimensional. Although Sitara’s father has been a one dimensional character yet the way he manipulates his daughter makes him so much more than just another negative character. Like all the other characters, he has a presence and a very important role to play in the story. Also, unlike many other dramas he is not the one running the show. Sure, there will be times like in these two episodes when Sitara might have to do things she is dead against because she is a sensitive soul who cannot see her family suffering due to the lack of money when there is something she can do to help them but mostly she tries to do what she feels is right. Another aspect of this drama which sets it apart from the rest is that although this is the story of Sitara but the supporting characters too manage to hold your interest. Their stories are just as important as that of Sitara’s, in fact Sitara’s story would have been incomplete without them.

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In both these episodes Sitara dragged her feet with as much determination as a person in her condition could gather together yet her past kept on haunting her. She is filled with regrets and guilt which might have lessened had she met Jharna. She did not get the opportunity to apologize to Jharna, to have that one final conversation which might have put her mind to ease. In a desperate attempt to vent out her feelings, she went to meet Farhad but that proved to be an even bigger shock. Jharna too struggled to get over what had happened and kept on hoping that Farhad might be his old self again. Jharna’s meeting with Farhad in episode 18 was exceptional. When Farhad says that Jharna’s role in the film was over, it was a very emotional scene. Aisha Gul has been absolutely brilliant as Jharna. She has definitely made this character memorable.

Mein Sitara is all that it promised to be and much more. It reveals the bitter hidden realities which are a part of the world of glitz and glam. The OST promised that Mein Sitara will be the story of rise and fall of celebrities and the kind of compromises people have to make in order to stay in the business. In the end it is all a ‘dhoka’ – those who shine on our big screens as stars do not always live a very glittering life! Mein Sitara is a very sensitive story in which the writer has very intelligently told everyone’s side of the story in such a way that you find it very hard to put the blame on anyone at all. All these wonderful people got caught up in situations beyond their control and ended up being a story of the past and a story of regrets. Sitara’s struggle continues and she still has the spark and determination. She still believes in herself and is not willing to be just another face in the industry. Episode 18 was fast paced and extremely poignant. Episode 19 marked the start of a new life for Sitara  and Nauman Ijaz’s character made his entry with this episode. Sitara finally has a chance but this time around she is all on her own against all those people who will do everything it takes to see her downfall. Although all the actors played their roles really well in these episodes but in my opinion Saba Qamar was the star of the show. Sitara’s character went through many different emotions in these two episodes but Saba Qamar never faltered.

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The preview of the next episode showed that Sitara and her new director/producer will develop a close bond with each other. It also showed Jharna in a very helpless state, I thought this episode marked the exit of Jharna’s character but that is not the case. Watching both these episodes together was a real treat. I am so happy that I decided to watch and review this drama. A big thanks to the entire team of Mein Sitara for giving us something truly entertaining and novel to look forward to every week.

How many of you watched these episodes? Do share your thoughts about them.

 

Fatima Awan

Mahira Khan & Hamza Ali Abbasi’s Shoot – BTS Video & Pictures

Maryam
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Mahira Khan & Hamza Ali Abbasi’s Shoot – BTS Video & Pictures

Everyone who wants Mahira Khan and Hamza Ali Abbasi to pair up for a project will be ecstatic to hear that DIVA Magazine brought them together for a shoot. The designer is Shehla Chatoor, and Umayr Waqar did the make-up.

Here’s an exclusive BTS video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uek4ByF_K6c

 

Have a look at some BTS pictures:

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Humaima Malick Endorses The Punjab Women’s Protection Bill 2016

Maryam
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Humaima Malick Endorses The Punjab Women’s Protection Bill 2016

Humaima Malick was approached by the Punjab government to endorse the Punjab Women’s Protection Bill 2016 (passed in February 2016) which contains remedies for victims of violence, criminalise all forms of violence against women and also provides them with special centers which remove the usual red tape hurdles that complicate a woman’s quest for justice.

She talks about female empowerment in this video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QX5HHS_VO1U

Talking to Dawn Images, Humaima Malick said, “The essence of this campaign is to empower women to break the stigma around them fighting for their own rights. Violence against women needs to stop. It’s 2016 and only now has the right to protect yourself as a woman been given a legal platform.”

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“As a woman, I will do everything in my power to tell every girl to imagine what she can be and work towards achieving it. For me, women’s empowerment means [protecting] a woman’s right to be unapologetically be herself. To find the courage to pursue their dreams without any hurdle or social stigmas. Every woman should find what she’s good at, make mistakes and learn from them. To be given an equal chance to fight for what she wants in life. We are finally moving towards an era that recognises this need.”

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“This mindset that men are superior to women and can do whatever they want and get away with it has been entrenched in our society for many years. The only thing that can change this is education, awareness that your rights exist and are your own.”

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“Our government and all local bodies should act on every ill this society is inflicted with. Stop people from thinking that they can harm a woman, call it honor and get away with it. We need to change the thinking that’s entrenched in our society only then will we see a positive change.”

Ahsan Khan Takes Udaari As A Campaign

Maryam
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Ahsan Khan Takes Udaari As A Campaign

For the entire Udaari team, Udaari is not merely a drama serial – it’s a campaign to raise awareness and talk about the hushed-up issue of child abuse. Ahsan Khan’s interviews and write-ups show that taking up this role has had a huge impact on him and he’s become very sensitive to the plight of the victims of child abuse.

Ahsan Khan has decided to donate 20% of his earnings from Udaari to the victims of child abuse. He is also working with an NGO to make his contribution more substantial.

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Source: Dawn Images

Ali Azmat vs. Umair Jaswal: It’s Not Over

Maryam
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Ali Azmat vs. Umair Jaswal: It’s Not Over

If you thought the Ali Azmat-Umair Jaswal feud was over… it’s not. Umair Jaswal had reacted to the leaked video of Ali Azmat where the latter was seen taking a dig at young musicians. In response to Umair Jaswal‘s video, Ali Azmat posted a video on his official Facebook page in which he said, “Umair Jaswal apnay bhaiyon ki tarah hai lekin agar woh samajh raha hai kay ek hit song say woh star bangaya hai tou we can fix that.”

Umair Jaswal was quick to react and posted a video, saying that he and Ali Azmat represent two different generations of musicians. Watch his video:

https://youtu.be/QjhWG_JF_F0

That’s not it. Farhan Saeed was asked to comment on the whole situation. All he had to say was that Ali Azmat’s views really surprised him.

Ahmed Ali Butt obviously had to share his two cents on the matter: lock them in a room and the person who comes out alive is a better singer.

This whole thing is crazy, not Taylor Swift vs. Kanye West level of crazy, but crazyyy.

Dumpukht- Episode 3 & 4

Admin
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Dumpukht- Episode 3 & 4

The previous two episodes piqued my interests with intriguing and rather unexpected twists. Bilal’s return made Kulsoom’s heart flutter and before they knew it, these two were beginning to fall in love. But fate had something else in store for them. The lovers Kulchu and Billu were doomed before they had a chance due to the differences in their families and their outlook. Bilal became aggressive because he didn’t understand why Kulsoom was ready to dismiss him without letting him try. Kulsoom tried to make him understand that her family was considering a proposal for her. Bilal’s mother fears for her son and would rather he leave than deal with the heartache and disappointment that is destined for him.

In her confusion, Kulsoom went back to Bibi Sahiba and was assured everything would work out. Bibi Sahiba has a very unique equation with her husband Habibullah. The all-powerful peer is subdued by his wife. Furthermore, he loved someone else but had to marry her and she too harboured feelings for another. What circumstances led to their marriage remains a mystery but they both acknowledge each other’s sentiments without any seeming bitterness. Bibi Sahiba convinces Habibullah to use his influence over Kulsoom’s family to convince them to consider Bilal as a prospect for her.

We usually come across peers as negative characters in our dramas who take advantage of their status for their own selfish reasons. It is refreshing to see a conversation between Habibullah and his wife that revolved around Kulsoom. There’s much more to their story and it would be interesting to see how their stories shape up and eventually intertwine with Kulsoom and Bilal.

I have to say I’m extremely impressed with the actors Kulsoom and Bilal for their effortless portrayal of star crossed lovers. This drama has a very different feel to it that makes me curious to watch each new episode. I don’t know if it’ll remain interesting till the very end and I hope it doesn’t turn into a 30 plus episode soap styled saga. For now, I’m savouring every bit of it and hoping it doesn’t dwindle into nothingness.

Who else is watching? What are your thought? Predictions?

Kanwal Murtaza

Tum Kon Piya – Episode 19

Fatima Awan
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Tum Kon Piya – Episode 19

The story is moving ahead at a snail’s pace at this point and the writer used eavesdropping generously in this episode to take the story forward. Having said that I must also add that this is one of those very few dramas which can easily be passed as a family drama. Although it deals with the usual shadi shuda zindagi ke masail and have a very bechari aurat  as a lead but the director and the writer did not cross any lines which would make this drama into one of those which make you cringe every step of the way. Elma and Ramish were emotionally involved with each other at one time but even then when they met in this episode or earlier it was clear that both of these people shared nothing more than utmost respect for each other now. Also, Ramish kept on asserting the fact that Elma’s father wanted him to look out for them therefore this was something he was doing to keep a promise he made to a dying man. Zarbab’s affair with Javeria has also been given just as much screen time as was necessary. Unlike many other dramas, the negative character isn’t shown plotting and planning all the time which is also a plus.

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Neha’s conversation with Ramish and later on everything she said to Zarbab was completely in line with her character. There were however a lot of dialogues and situations which were highly repetitive. This has been the biggest negative point of this drama – the characters, dialogues and scenarios which haven’t changed at all in all these episodes. Zarbab’s sister’s marriage could have been a turning point but she is happily married. Also, Elma’s father’s death and the way her in laws acted in the situation could have been one of those situation which serve as a wake up call but Elma’s character shows no signs of changing. Zarbab’s character is the only one which has changed from bad to worse otherwise all the characters are pretty much the same since the beginning. Lack of character development in my opinion has to be the biggest flaw in this drama, other than that it is still a play which keeps on giving you something to look forward to.

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Arif’s track is getting interesting. His character is negative but it holds your interest. He told Rania, he didn’t want anything to do with his family and at the same time he told his mother that she can come stay with them after a while. He is a very clever person who does not believe in burning his ships. Neha explained Zarbab’s family in a very apt manner; they are insensitive and selfish. The confrontation between Zarbab and Elma however was not very gratifying. When Zarbab told her she was getting everything a gherulu aurat needed she should have told him she wasn’t get any affection – something which a person, any person needs more than anything else. Unfortunately, Elma is no match for Zarbab or his family and what is even more unfortunate is that even with the present circumstances  she feels a sense of belonging towards these people. It is also strange that she chose to ignore the fact that her husband is cheating on her. Sharafat begum’s rants are getting monotonous. It has been very well established by now that she is very insecure and self-centered therefore showing scenes which reinforce this side of her personality are unnecessary. It is always a pleasure watching Hina Bayat on screen but I do feel that she is being wasted in this role.

Tum Kon Piya has been directed really well and it has been written well too but the dialogues and scenarios were quiet average in tonight’s episode. All the actors have done complete justice to their characters. It is one of those very few dramas in which every actor has given immaculate performance but the characters are mostly black and white which makes this drama a decent watch but nothing outstanding which gives you something to reflect upon. We do need such dramas because the viewers need something logical yet not very heavy duty to watch during weekdays.

The preview of the next episode showed Arif accusing Elma and Ramish, something which was expected from him.

How many of you watched this latest installment? Do share your thoughts about it.

 

Fatima Awan

Ban Doraemon demands PTI

Rashid Nazir Ali
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Ban Doraemon demands PTI

In a rather startling move, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf on Wednesday submitted a first of its kind resolution in the Punjab Assembly calling for a ban on famous Japanese anime series Doraemon.

PTI legislator Malik Taimoor Masood urged Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) to impose a ban on Doraemon or limit its airtime as it contains explicit content which has a bad impact on children.

The legislator argued that 24-hour cartoon channels are adversely affecting the educational and physical growth of children. The resolution also claims the language used in cartoons run on channels is damaging societal norms. The resolution will be discussed in the next PA session.

Doraemon is a Japanese manga series and is dubbed in Hindi for viewers in Pakistan and India. The anime series revolves around a robotic cat named Doraemon and a young boy Nobita. It is aired on various cartoon channels.

Here’s how people reacted to the news:

 

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The move comes after Ashish Chaturvedi, the whistleblower of India’s biggest education scam, voiced concerns against two of the world’s most famous Japanese cartoon characters – Doraemon and Shin Chan. Chatuvardi feels the adverse psychological impacts of the two Hindi and English dubbed ‘violent’ cartoons are grappling a whole generation of kids across India and the world, according to the Times of India.

Chaturvedi is seeking a ban on the telecast of the two Japanese cartoons as he claims several medial reports highlight mental abuse and other serious adverse impact of these cartoons on kids.

Further, in 2014, Chinese newspapers cautioned their countrymen against Doraemon saying, Beware of this “blue fatty” — the Japanese are exporting their values through him. According to The New York Times, three major newspapers in Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, fired accusations against Doraemon for its “political overtones” and being a tool of Japan’s “cultural invasion.”

Japan’s former foreign minister, Masahiko Komura, appointed Doraemon an “anime ambassador” in 2008 in the hope that the character would deepen the world’s understanding of the country.

Acknowledgment: The whole content above is borrowed from Express Tribune
 http://tribune.com.pk/story/1155119/pti-submits-resolution-japanese-cartoon-punjab-assembly/

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About Doraemon in Pakistan

Doraemon is a Japanese animated character and cartoon series which is very popular worldwide. In Pakistan Doraemon is not televised on any channel. However it is televised after dubbing it in Hindi on the Indian channel for kids Disney India. Disney India is also aired in Pakistan and all of its series are widely watched by kids in Pakistan.

Indian content be it Bollywood films, reality shows, television dramas, award shows are widely watched in Pakistan and are popular among youngsters and adults alike. Indian content in Pakistan is aired on the Indian entertainment channels (like Star Plus, Colors, Zee, Sony) as well as the Pakistani entertainment channels (like Geo Kahani, ARY Zindagi, Hum Sitaray, Express Entertainment, Filmazia). Like the elders the kids are also fond of watching the Indian content available for kids in the Hindi language on the channels like Cartoon Network, Pogo and Disney India. The series like Doraemon, Chota Bheem, Best of Luck Nikki are popular in Pakitsan.

Rashid Nazir Ali

Urwa Replaces Sana Javed In Upcoming Film ”Rangreza”

Maryam
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Urwa Replaces Sana Javed In Upcoming Film ”Rangreza”

Sana Javed was to star alongside Gohar Rasheed and Bilal Ashraf in upcoming romantic musical, ”Rangreza”, but due to date issues and some family emergency, she opted out of her debut film.

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Sana Javed told Express Tribune, ”Due to some family emergency, dates manage nahi ho rahay thay (the dates could not be managed). There wasn’t any other issue. Anyone in my place would have done that. I decided to walk out due to mutual understanding.”

She’s been replaced by Urwa. Talking to Dawn Images, the producer, Usman Malkani revealed, ”We didn’t think twice before casting Urwa. We brought her on board just a couple of hours before rolling the camera. She’s just like a blessing for our film.”

Urwa confirmed this by saying, ”I’ve started shooting for the film already.”

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She shared that she is playing the lead character, Reshmi who is “a kind-hearted, soulful, beautiful girl. Her purity makes her rare. She is as reshmi as her name.”

Rangreza is Aamir Mohiuddin’s directorial debut. “It is a film based on music, in which we are exploring the contrast between classical qawwali and modern pop music. A love story will join the contrast.”

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The film also stars Akber Subhani, Saleem Mairaj, Tanveer Jamal, Shahid Naqvi. Its music has been directed by the film’s writer Akhtar Qayyum, who has been a music director and producer for 30 years. The eight song soundtrack features Qurram Hussain of Josh, Farid Ayaz and Abu Mohammad qawwals and others.

Gohar Rasheed is portraying the character of a dholak-player so this is his new look for the film:

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Indian Film Industry Has Far More Credibility Than The Pakistani Film Industry: Fawad Khan

Maryam
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Indian Film Industry Has Far More Credibility Than The Pakistani Film Industry: Fawad Khan

From becoming the showstopper for India’s leading fashion designer to hosting the grandest IIFA Awards – Fawad Khan has done it all. Now, in an interview with Hindustan Times, Fawad Khan compared the Pakistani and Indian film industries, and said that the former needs time to grow.

“The Indian film industry has been around for more than a 100 years now. So, it has far more credibility than the Pakistani film industry, which has witnessed a demise of sorts over the last 30 years. Now, the Pakistani film industry is getting back on its feet.”

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Fawad Khan strongly believes in cross-border exchange of talent. “The exchange of talent is increasing slowly. I would like an active exchange of movies too. We have been working on films and have been actively looking for talent from the Indian film industry to work with in Pakistani movies.”

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“And it is not just me. Film-makers such as Mahesh Bhatt and Mukesh Bhatt, and actors such as Naseeruddin Shah and Ratna Pathak Shah, have all been trying to work across the border. It will take some time, and hopefully, I will be one of the first ones [to witness that change firsthand].”

LSA 2016 Controversy: Singer Momin Durrani Received His Invite At The Last Minute

Maryam
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LSA 2016 Controversy: Singer Momin Durrani Received His Invite At The Last Minute

Momin Durrani is part of the Coke Studio family and at LSA 2016, he and Zeb Bangash were nominated for singing the Best Original Soundtrack category for TV drama Diyar e Dil. In an interview with Express Tribune, Momin Durrani revealed that he received his invite at the very last minute.

“It had a silver code which meant instead of sitting with the artists, I was supposed to sit with the audience at the back.”

Durrani didn’t show up because awards don’t matter to him anyway. “But all my friends and family have asked me what happened. My name is still there in the credits. This is humiliating.”

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According to ET, when approached, LSA media manager Fareshteh Aslam said invites were delayed across the board and for that she apologised on behalf of the organising team. Further, she said that the award rightfully belonged to the producer of the show, Momina Duraid. “It was Momina Duraid’s award and neither Bangash’s nor Durrani’s. Because Duraid was not present on the occasion, Bangash accepted it on her behalf.”

Zeb Bangash, however, didn’t mention in her speech that she was accepting the award on behalf of Momina Duraid.

Uzair Jaswal To Make His TV Debut

Maryam
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Uzair Jaswal To Make His TV Debut

The Jaswal brothers are immensely talented and there’s no doubt about that. Uzair Jaswal is a singer and music composer, his most popular song being ”Tere Bin”. He played a very small role in his brother, Yasir Jaswal’s film, Jalaibee. Now, following in Umair Jaswal‘s footsteps, he will be screen on the small screen.

In an interview with Dawn Images, he revealed,”I haven’t announced it, but I am. I will be playing a tough guy who loves being in love, and would do anything to get things done his way. I can’t say much right now.”

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The upcoming drama serial is directed by Nadeem Siddique, produced by Abdullah Seja and written by Rabia Razzaq.
Uzair Jaswal will share the screen with Neha Rajput.

“But it’s a really nice script by Rabia Razzaq, I’m really nervous so I don’t want to say too much about it. Let’s see what happens.”

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“I’ve been getting offers for TV serials for a year now, but I never took up anything because I was so busy with my music and didn’t want to step into TV. Call this an accident or something, but yeah it was very unplanned and last minute. And now I’m doing my first TV play, halfway shooting it and it’s been a fun learning experience.”

He’s also signed his first film in which he will be play the lead, so he sees his TV drama as a warm-up “right in time for my debut film as a leading character.”

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Uzair Jaswal is currently in the Northern areas for the drama’s shooting.

An open letter to the writers of Pakistani drama industry

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An open letter to the writers of Pakistani drama industry

There was once a time when Pakistan experienced mesmerizing dramas, dramas that used to be so popular that the shopkeepers used to close down their shops just for the sake of watching them once a week. With the introduction of private tv channels the literary content of the dramas were compromised. The more private tv channels were introduced more was the content of dramas compromised, it came to such an extent that Pakistani’s were left with no choice but to watch Indian “infinite” soaps. By 2010 Pakistan’s drama industry suffered the negligence and it was crumbling down to the level of Lollywood. Like a breath of fresh air Hum tv made a few dramas that were worth watching, dramas like Dastaan, Humsafar, Zindagi gulzar hai, Dil e muztar were so captivating that they brought back the attention of the audience from the Indian soaps.

Sadly, today the trend of ratings and TRPs is now bringing back the compromised writing issue. The writers of dramas have turned into such pathetic people that they are making fun of our religion. For example the trend of divorce is very common in the dramas, without watching the first episode one can easily judge that the drama will have atleast one character divorced.

Another issue is the method of divorce in Islam giving three Talaks consecutively is forbidden that is why a time limit is set for reconciliation but hats off to our writers who make sure the guy says “Talak, talak, talak” in a single breath, without even considering what will be the effect of such irresponsible understanding of religion on the audience.
Third problem is that the writers have made Halala a joke in their dramas. An example of this issue is Zara yaad kar, what type of image are the writers portraying to the audience? That halala is easy? It’s that simple? Anyone can do it without any restriction? Today almost every drama ends up in halala, why? Because people want a happy ending, so the writers feel free to make fun of much serious matters.

The issue of living with na-mehrams. I don’t want to sound like a very clergy person but last time I checked majority of people in Pakistan are muslims, I fail understand how mothers in Mann Mayal are ok with their daughter who was in idaat to live with a na-mehram. How Jeena thought it was ok for a divorced couple to live together back again under the same roof? How the mature character of Pakeeza thought it was her duty to stay in the same house with her ex-husband just because her daughter is mentally retarded grownup girl who happens to be getting married? How it is going to be ok with her in laws that that Pakeeza was living with a na-mehram all this time? Just a general question to the audience, would you people do that? If no, then why is such culture being shoved in our faces via TV?

Though a minor matter not that big of deal but when did we all started wearing whites on a death? I am sure that at time of such great loss and depression no one has enough time to search their wardrobe to pick out white only for a death! This is completely bored! Don’t portray what isn’t ours please!

I have request our drama writers humbly, that if you don’t know your religion please please don’t make fun of it at least. Our dramas are watched throughout the world just for the sake of TRPs don’t give a wrong image of your religion to the world. Writers have the power to bring about changes in the thinking of a society. Please don’t ruin ours. We already have a lot of sexual harassment and abuse cases, don’t promote a culture which doesn’t belong to us, don’t write dramas like Bashar Momin, Sangat and Chup Raho to promote the romanticizing rapists culture.

A kind request from a Pakistani muslim girl.

Maria Mufti

App Ke Liye – Episode 04!

Zahra Mirza
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App Ke Liye – Episode 04!

Ohkay so, honestly speaking, out of all the episodes of App Ke Liye that have gone on air, I enjoyed watching this one the most only because of Shaheer & Washma & their conversations. Things are being taken forward in regards to Shaheer & Washma’s track, so it makes the upcoming episodes look promising because apart from their characters, the rest of the characters are quite typical.

Maryam went to Arsalan’s place but he told her to go back to her husband’s house. I think in stead of using Washma as a scapegoat, Arsalan should have the decency to at least be honest about everything in front of his sister & own his mistake like a man. Waheed has been financing Arsalan’s education so it is understandable that he feels burdened & doesn’t want to hurt Waheed especially after all that he has done for him, but what Arsalan can do is, tell his sister about the reality so that she stops being so nasty with Washma & stops blaming her for everything. Maryam will obviously have to keep things to herself because after knowing that it was Arsalan who forced Washma to do the heavy-lifting, she will stop being so bitter about it & will accept everything since she will know that this is exactly what her brother wanted too.

Oh dear, the scenes & dialogues of Nishat Apa are just as OTT as her character is. The entire conversation about giving away her child to Shaheer after beating around the brush for million seconds was so not done well. I am sure that it is not the direction, it is the acting of Samina Peerzada that is making it hard for me to tolerate Nishat’s character. It is actually quite ridiculous that she wants Shaheer to adopt her child, whereas Shaheer has been bearing their expenses right from the beginning. He has taken care of his entire family so what’s the point of adopting Nishat’s son? Nishat thinks that her husband’s name won’t make things easier for Ali so can she please elaborate how using Mamu’s name will shape Ali’s future? Nishat obviously has her sights on Shaheer’s property & wealth, so that in any case is being shared by his family members, so can she stop being so petty brained & not use her son for her ulterior motives? Thankfully, Shaheer talked her out of it & didn’t just surrender to this order by his Apa since he does everything that she tells him to do.

Areesha has asked Shaheer to meet Omar so that he can give his blessings to them. Areesha prepared Omar for the meeting & made him familiar with Shaheer & his personality. It is good that at least Shaheer is far more considerate about others choices in comparison to Nishat because she is a control freak & wants everyone to follow what she prescribes for them. Areesha doesn’t know but Nishat is planning her wedding with Imdad’s brother. I want to see how Areesha will take a stand for herself against Nishat’s orders!

I loved the way Washma taught Imdad a lesson & luckily, Shaheer found out the truth that Washma was only explaining things to Arsalan & wasn’t actually spending time with him. It is good to see that Shaheer doesn’t just believe in listening to the one side of the story & gives fair chance to everyone. I liked the conversation Shaheer & Washma had, it’s like Shaheer has found a new friend who he knows will walk an extra mile for him, but before even talking about his personal issues, Shaheer gave the chance to Washma to vent out where she explained what Arsalan put her through & how she accepted everything for the sake of her brother & his wife’s happiness. Washma & Shaheer might be oblivious of it right now but these conversations are giving them an insight into their natures & likes & dislikes, which is a good thing because unconsciously, Shaheer & Washma will start depending on each other for moral support & then they might even fall for each other as well. Well, Washma assigned herself a duty of doing a background check on Omar for Shaheer’s peace of mind & I am sure this is another quality of Washma that Shaheer will admire that she is good at heart & believes in helping people without expecting anything in return.

Well, I am getting tired of Maryam’s character but yes, the only good thing about the bickering scene between Waheed & Maryam was the insight that we got into what Waheed feels for Washma & how he has raised his sister. It is actually quite refreshing to see that Waheed believes in giving Washma a complete freedom of choosing what she likes for herself & not only that, he has empowered her by turning her a confident individual. It is a rarity in our dramas to see such brothers who trust their sisters & respect their judgments – that entire conversation was done really well & I commend the writer for coming up with such a unique bonding of Waheed & Washma that is built solely on trust.

Overall, this episode was good & I really enjoyed watching Shaheer & Washma’s bits. It looks like Shaheer will have no idea when he will start relying on Washma because she has such a positive attitude & energy that he will find himself drawing closer to her unconsciously. I can’t wait to see what these two have in store for us. Please share your thoughts about this episode of App Ke Liye.

Keep Supporting,
Cheers,
Zahra Mirza.

Besharam – Episode 13!

Zahra Mirza
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Besharam – Episode 13!

Ohkay so, this episode of Besharam was interesting but they have started taking things a bit slow & honestly speaking I am dreading that things are going to become difficult for Haider & Mishail because the external factors are going to affect their relationship & they both will fall prey to the circumstances.

Sikandar told Khadija about his plans of selling the shop but he actually didn’t come clean & didn’t resort to honesty. Sikandar is selfish & mean & unfortunately, he thinks that he will progress in life & this deal of selling the shop will bring him ease & happiness, which he is sadly mistaken about. Sikandar has a few responsibilities to take care of, that is why he isn’t thinking about the future because if he had, he would’ve understood that selling of this shop will take a toll on both the families in the long-run. Sikandar is quite ecstatic to know that Wahab is giving him a good amount but he can’t foresee that this money won’t last him for a life time. Haider could feel that Sikandar had made up his mind that’s why he didn’t retaliate much & went ahead with what his uncle demanded.

It was made clear that Wahab knows that Haider also has an ownership of this shop, that is why he hinted about ruining a deal for someone. I am sure in order to make Haider suffer, Wahab will deceive Sikandar too but I hope Sikandar won’t make Haider face the brunt for it because it is Sikandar who became greedy after getting an offer from Wahab & Haider had no say in this matter whatsoever. The way Wahab kept on convincing Sikandar to hand over the shop to him went to show that Wahab will definitely betray Sikandar’s trust, which he actually deserves but sadly, Haider’s family will end up suffering some loss too but I am hopeful that Haider will take care of his family members himself.

Saba has fallen in a deep pit & she knows that it is only Mishi who can help her in this situation. Honestly, I want Sikandar to find out the truth about his daughter so that he can realize that what he did with Khadija, Humna & Haider was wrong & also, he was at fault for judging Mishail because of her career choices. I want Sikandar to find out that it was Mishi who helped Saba & saved her life from getting ruined. Saba will definitely come in contact with Mishi & then we’ll have to see what solution Mishi will come up with in order to deal with Kabeer!

I really am not happy about the coverage that Sara is getting & I am wondering how long is she going to milk it? When the drama began we saw that Mishail did what she deemed fit so it is hard to absorb that she is letting Sara dominate her without even realizing that Sara has an ulterior motive. Yes, Mishi has grown far more considerate about her mother after her marriage but to see her putting everything on hold for her mother doesn’t go with her personality. Mishi knows that Haider needs her too & he stood by her side & gave her the courage when he found her worried about her mother, so it’s time for Mishi to go back & reciprocate the love & attention Haider showered at her. All the things Haider said to Sara about giving security & protection to Mishi were quite sweet & I hope Mishi goes back ASAP because otherwise this track will end up getting dragged & it might as well ruin the charm too.

Haider saw what Mishi was upto at her mom’s house & he was disappointed, but what hurt him more was the fact that Mishi didn’t stop him from leaving & didn’t bother explaining to him about what he saw her doing with her friends. I think Mishi really needs to return to Haider’s house, work on her marriage in stead of letting Sara take up all her time & attention. I like Humna’s presence in the drama & what makes her character even more likable is the fact that she is honest & blunt & doesn’t hold back from saying the truth, that is why she told her mother to see the good in Mishi & also told Haider that he was agitated because Mishi wasn’t around, haha!

Overall, this episode was pretty decent but things have started to go a bit slow. I hope they revive the aspect of Haider’s political career as well & also open up the truth of Saba on Sikandar as soon as possible because that way Sikandar & Shakira will snap out of the fixation of calling Mishail besharam time & again. As always, the acting of every actor was spot on in this episode & the direction was top-notch too, the only thing I feel is that things need to get moving because it was the fast pace that got us hooked to this drama in the first place & oh, the chemistry between Saba Qamar & Zahid Ahmed was spot on too, they both make a perfect on-screen couple & I hope we get to see them again working together in a love story soon. & yes, there are so many things that work for me & one of it is the dialogue writing & a touch of humor that a few conversations have. I actually lol’ed at the things Sikandar said to Shakira about watching ‘Nagin’, I must say Mehmood Akhtar’s timing & expressions are amazinggg! Please share your thoughts about this episode of Besharam. :)

Keep Supporting,
Cheers,
Zahra Mirza.

Zara Yaad Kar – Episode 21!

Zahra Mirza
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Zara Yaad Kar – Episode 21!

Ohkay so, I am pretty sure that the drama has lost its purpose. There’s absolutely nothing that happened in this episode that contributed much to the story & everything at this point has started to look meaningless. Where Mahnoor should accept that she’s shameless, Haadi should also accept that he is gutless & a coward too!

I am amazed at Aneesa’s approach towards Mahnoor’s shamelessness, I actually thought that she would question her daughter because she returned home after 3-4 ‘nights’ & in a condition that would make anyone wonder what she went through but all Aneesa showed concerned about was whether Mahnoor got married or not. I don’t think Aneesa’s sarcastic one-liners are serving any purpose now & sadly, they now only look like an attempt by the writer to show how deep his own thinking is. Mahnoor has crossed all the limits so seeing Aneesa expecting that her one-liners will have any effect on dheeeeeeeeeeeeeeet Mahnoor makes her look like a bigger fool in this situation.

Haadi found out the truth that Mahnoor was now getting married to Waqar to which Mahnoor’s response was ‘shadi to karni hi thi, boss se karoon yan Waqar se’, making it sound so silly like she was out to buy a lawn suit so she’s like ‘suit to lena hi tha, Khaadi se loon yan Gul Ahmed se’, like seriously? This whole idea of switching partners is cringe worthy already & to see it being elaborated with the usage of such dialogues makes it puke-worthy actually. It is actually quite amusing that Mahnoor still hasn’t learned her lesson because she made it all about Haadi & tried to make him feel guilty that she endured the beating of her temporary potential sautan only because of him, like seriously, for how long is she going to put blame on others for her own faults & mistakes & what surprised me was Haadi’s reaction on that entire situation where he drank a gallon of water, left her place, drove the car & recalled everything that Mahnoor said on the road & then scurried to Uzma like a loser. I think in stead of going to Uzma’s place, Haadi should’ve gone to Nadra’s office to tell them that he needed to change his gender on his ID card, because he mistook himself for a ‘male’, which he clearly is not since he’s a mazloom aurat in reality!

Well, Uzma welcomed Haadi cordially & said everything to him which actually looked like a closure that she was looking for before her husband-to-be arrived. ‘Mohabbat uske liye bacha ke rakhni chahiye jo deserve karta ho’, finally, Uzma told Haadi the truth & more than telling it to him, she was feeding it to herself too because she knows that she has to come out of her past & snap out of her love for Haadi & move on. It is actually good that the character that started off as a weakling has emerged to be quite dignified & strong & probably the only good thing about this drama & guess what, Haadi didn’t drink a gallon of water though he demanded it, left her place, drove the car & recalled everything what Uzma said on the road & scurried to his house like a coward. I mean doesn’t Haadi get tired of being so lifeless & monotonous? I mean why couldn’t he tell Uzma straight away that she shouldn’t get married & that he was tired of Mahnoor & her adventures & wanted to get rid of it? I think Haadi is also responsible for what Mahnoor is doing because if he had ended everything with her gracefully, she wouldn’t have become so desperate to be searching for a tom, dick & harry to get married to him in order to get back with Haadi. Haadi gave Mahnoor a green signal, that is why she went on a temporary husband hunting spree, which makes Haadi look as selfish as Mahnoor is. When this drama began the writer tried to show that a male can be like Haadi too, who believes in giving freedom to his wife & who doesn’t believe in enforcing his own thought process (if any) on his partner, but after the drama progressed, that exact approach of the writer started making Haadi look like a loser & unmanly at that too!

I honestly am not feeling the entire Anoushay-Haadi-Waqar scenario. I am not really sure why things have started revolving around Anoushay as if she’s a main lead because everything looks like a forced attempt & unrealistic at that too as all of a sudden she has become a part of this entire mess & now Haadi is trying to be her savior. It is quite obvious that the writer wanted to establish a ground for Haadi & Anoushay’s union in the future, therefore he made Anoushay related to the people who have ruined Haadi’s past only for her to become sympathetic towards him. Also, where is Gaiti? Just when this question popped up in my mind, we got to see a split second ramp walk of Gaiti, which left me wondering what was the point of that entire shot? Was it only to inform us that Gaiti is alive & kickin’ or was it a mistake committed by the editor where he unconsciously added that second-long walk of her? We saw how clingy Gaiti was so it is actually quite unbelievable that she hasn’t tried to get in contact with Waqar or hasn’t sent her spies to track down where he is & why isn’t he returning her calls? Also, now that Anoushay has occupied the front seat in Waqar’s car ‘out of nowhere’, it makes me wonder why did the writer & the director put us up with the OTT & unrealistic family of Mehtab Deswali? Why did they put us up with Gaiti’s fake Urdu/English accent & those blood-boiling scenes where Gaiti would stammer like a toddler who’s learning how to talk? What was the point of adding that political dimension to the drama when it had no purpose to serve? I am not sure but may be after the drama went on-air, they must’ve decided to cut down on that political aspect of the story in order to save themselves from infuriating anyone!

Anyways, the preview of the next episode seemed boring too & once again, Anoushay will be getting the details of Haadi’s life which she should not be concerned about but the writer & the director are doing everything to push her character & her existence down our throats without any reason. Haadi is a loser & I guess he is so spineless that he is waiting for any girl to propose him, which he will ‘silently’ accept, since he has no thought process & no stand of his own & he wants people to take decisions for him so I am sure this is the reason why Anoushay is getting so much information about Haadi as in the end, she will sympathize with him & will end up proposing him & they will live silently ever after! Anyways, please share your thoughts about this boring episode of Zara Yaad Kar.

Keep Supporting,
Cheers,
Zahra Mirza.

Mahira Khan Went Live On Facebook

Maryam
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Mahira Khan Went Live On Facebook

After bagging two big awards at LSA 2016, Mahira Khan is extremely grateful to her fans and wanted to thank them for voting for her. IMG_20160802_170741 IMG_20160802_170800 So, she held a live Q/A session on Facebook. It was a fun session because she went live from MD Productions, the production house (Mahira calls it her ‘maika‘) that gave us Humsafar, Shehr-e-Zaat, Saqday Tumharay and Bin Roye. It was nice because Mahira walked us through the building and we got to see all the ‘important’ rooms where the job gets done. We also saw the editing room where the editing of Bin Roye, the drama serial, was underway! Yes! The drama is expected to go on-air by September of this year. Fingers crossed. Here are some of the questions that Mahira Khan answered. Q: How does fame affect your life? MK: I have become less care-free and things affect me more than they used to, especially on social media because when fans love you, they say the nicest things about you but when people start to criticize you, they don’t mince their words and become very harsh. Q: What’s your favourite food? MK: Anda Paratha. Daal Chawal. Biryani. Q: What are your plans and goals for future? MK: I want to do good work. I am hoping to direct someday. For now, it’s just acting but in future, I’d like to direct. FB_IMG_1470144052895 Q: How has acting affected your personal life? MK: It is a taxing job, you have to get into character, you have to devote a lot of time to your work and at times, it takes as long as 18 hours on shoot. Once you’re done with the project, it’s sometimes difficult to completely detach yourself from the character you were playing, so yes, it definitely affects your personal life. Q: Tell us something interesting about your son, Azlan. MK: He wants to be an actor, or director, actually. He writes his own scripts and is always directing and filming things on my mobile. Also, he has the wisest things to say. Sometimes, when he says something intelligent, I write it down. He is a wise kid. Q: Team One Direction or Justin Beiber? MK: Justin Bieber. I am a Belieber! ;) Q: Three actors you would like to work with? MK: Ryan Gostling, Noman Ijaz, Amitabh Bachchan. Q: Thoughts on Hamza Ali Abbasi? MK: He is a friend that I have great conversations with. IMG_20160803_020703 Q: When will we see you with Hamza Ali Abbasi? MK: We have been offered some projects but we are busy with different things. These days, Hamza is busy with Maula Jutt. Hamza ka apna mind hai bhui, woh kab kia decide karlain kisi ko nahe pata. ;) But we both have decided to do a project together before he quits acting. Q: Chai or Lassi? MK: Chai. Yeh bhi koi poochne wali baat hai? Q: Favourite city in Pakistan? MK: Karachi Q: Name the top three movies of your favourite Bollywood actor. MK: Well, my favourite Bollywood actor is Shah Rukh Khan and my favourite movies of his are Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Chak De India and Dil Se. Q: Your favourite Pakistani drama? MK: Daam and Angan Terha. Q: Favourite sports? MK: I am not a sporty person so I don’t enjoy sports. Q: Your biggest fear? MK: The fear of losing loved ones and the fear of failure. Q: What are some things that you don’t like about yourself? MK: I am indecisive and highly emotional. IMG_20160803_020544 Q: Atif Aslam or Arijit Singh? MK: Atif Aslam. Q: Do you play Pokemon GO? MK: No! Q: What do you think sets you apart from the other actresses? MK: I think we all are unique and that’s what makes us all different so, no, I don’t think there’s anything that sets me apart from them. We all are hard-workers and that’s it. IMG_20160802_175821 IMG_20160802_170822 So, what do you think of the session? Are you team Mahira? 

ARY’s Campaign, “Shukria Pakistan”

Maryam
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ARY’s Campaign, “Shukria Pakistan”

With 14th August just around the corner, ARY decided to get creative and initiated a campaign, “Shukria Pakistan” , encouraging Pakistanis to thank their homeland for everything it has given them. The campaign encourages people to step up and do something to show their love for Pakistan.

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https://youtu.be/UHVnMtbwWTM

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Adnan Siddiqui, Faisal Qureshi and Junaid Jamshed are also part of the campaign.

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Bilal Khan’s English Version Of ”Bachana” Is Officially Out

Maryam
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Bilal Khan’s English Version Of ”Bachana” Is Officially Out

Bilal Khan is an extremely talented singer who has given us some beautiful songs in the past. Larho Mujhay, Mata-e-Jan Hai Tu, Tou Kia Hua are some wonderful songs, but his signature song, Bachana is a favourite of many.

Bilal Khan uploaded a video of himself playing, ”Save Me” and the video made rounds on the internet. After the overwhelmingly positive response he received, he decided to release tje complete English version of Bachana, ”Save Me”.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_RW0AiUPafE

Bilal Khan also performed Save Me live at BBC Radio. His song has now been released on Soundcloud, Spotify and Apple Music.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CM_BtxyVjQU

How do you like the new version of Bachana?

Actor In Law Music Launch – Pictures

Maryam
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Actor In Law Music Launch – Pictures

Actor In Law is an upcoming film all set to release on Eid ul Azha. The soundtrack of Actor In Law, composed by Shani Arshad, was officially unveiled today. Shani Arshad is talented singer and composer – he is the genius behind the very well-loved OST of Diyar-e-Dil and he also has the soundtracks of Main Hoon Shahid Afridi and Namaloom Afraad to his credit.

The music launch featured everyone’s favourite, Atif Aslam who has lent his vocals for the film’s soundtrack. The event was hosted by Ahmed Ali Butt and attended by the Fahad Mustafa, Mehwish Hayat, Saboor Aly, Sajal Aly, Aijaz Aslam, Javed Sheikh, Nadeem Qureshi, Fizza Ali Meerza, Nina Kashif among others.

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Thora Sa Aasman – Episode 03!

Zahra Mirza
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Thora Sa Aasman – Episode 03!

Ohkay so, this episode of Thora Sa Aasman was quite interesting. I am really happy with the pace of the drama because thankfully they have so many stories & tracks to cover that they can’t afford slowing down the pace, which makes me hopeful that things will remain exactly like this till the drama will last. I must say, the director has given due coverage to each & every character & has established their tracks appropriately, for which he deserves a round of applause.

Haroon Kamal got married to Zarka to prove the love he had for her but he being a free bird doesn’t believe in enduring any sort of pressures, that is why the moment Zarka’s mother Dilshaad Begum started doubting his intentions, he came clean & told her that he never intended to get married to Zarka in the first place & it was only on her request that he took such a step. Zarka is actually tired of living the life that her mother has planned for her, that is why like a gullible fool, she thought that she found her home when she met Haroon Kamal. If Zarka hadn’t allowed her love for Haroon cloud her judgments, she would’ve known that Haroon doesn’t know what loyalty is because he would’ve never ever cheated on his ‘beautiful’ wife that he time & again spoke so causally about. Zarka’s happiness was short-lived & unfortunately, she was made familiar with the true face of Haroon Kamal just in the early stages of her marriage.

Haroon actually made the first move by sending an expensive gift for Baqir Shirazi’s wife in order to impress him but he didn’t know who he was dealing with. This entire scenario sheds a light on the ugly face of the elite society & the things that transpire behind the closed doors. All this while, Baqir didn’t mind eyeing Haroon’s wife Shahista shamelessly, but the moment he saw that Haroon made a gesture only to initiate family terms with him using a bait targeting his wife infuriated him quite a bit & he came up with a plan of insulting him on his face. Baqir actually knows what sort of a person Haroon Kamal is that is why he knew that he will hit a bulls-eye by sending an invitation to Shahista Kamal. As expected, Haroon told her to entertain Baqir because he wants to reap the benefits that this relationship will bring with it. I think either all the women around Haroon are too gullible or Haroon is quite a sweet-talker because it only took him a slight confession of love to convince Shahista that she should accept the dinner invitation that Baqir sent to her, while making her forget completely that he has been cheating on her.

Baqir got what he wanted & he killed two birds with one stone because he not only got to spend the time with Shahista, but he also made sure that Haroon gets his message loud & clear too. I liked how both Baqir & Haroon are still not in contact but are talking indirectly to each other, it’s like Baqir knows Haroon in & out & he also knows that Haroon definitely has an ulterior motive due to which he wants to become friends with him, that is why Baqir is making the most of the situation & putting it to good use by spending time with Shahista Kamal & by also displaying his power & status in front of Haroon Kamal. I think Shahista has spent enough time with Haroon to know him, therefore she shouldn’t let him use her as his stooge, but then may be she loves him so much that she is still hopeful that her husband will change completely & will become loyal to her.

Saiqa is finding it hard to cope up with what life has thrown at her & her circumstances are filling her with bitterness but what she didn’t know was that she had so many women around her who were in the same boat as her too. Saiqa never ever imagined that she will meet another Saiqa who will give her a futuristic perspective of what her life will turn out to be but then Saiqa is not too ambitious. Yes, she is frustrated & she is helpless but she still doesn’t believe in curbing everything for her own benefits, that is why the things she heard from her supervisor made her realize what she wants & what she’ll never settle for in her life.

Fatima’s mother finally found her & sadly, like always, she brought troubles with her. Fatima’s mother ended up telling everything to Askari Bee & things got even more difficult for her, but it is good to know that Fatima has Rabeea by her side who is ready to help her in every way possible. Fatima is someone who wants to live life on her terms & conditions but so far, she hasn’t succeeded because people around her believe that they are the ones who should be making decisions for her on her behalf. Fatima ended up getting jailed & this was something that she had never imagined. I really want to see what Fatima will do to shape her life up & how she will bring herself out of the misery. Unfortunately, the manager of the orphanage & Aliya have started looking for the boy that Aazar & Aasia adopted on behalf of Fatima, let’s see when their search will end & for how long Fatima will be able to keep Shaheer protected & hidden from the preying eyes.

Overall, this episode was very very interesting & face paced. The change of every single scene made things refreshing & it also changed the entire perspective because so much is happening at this point that it looks like a puzzle that you’re trying to solve, which is brilliant & sheds a light on the fact that this can only be a result of an intelligent writing. I must say the direction has been top-notch & so has been the acting & considering this being a GEO TV’s production, the production value of this drama is extremely good too. All the actors have given a perfect face to their respective characters & I am glad that apart from a few actors, this project doesn’t have quite a big names attached to it because these days the dramas that are not studded with star cast seem to do well actually, so for that reason I thank the casting directors of this drama immensely. Yes, there’s one thing that isn’t working for me & that is the usage of the OST throughout the episode, the soundtrack is alright but lyrics don’t really gel well with the situation but seems like they use it to add more depth in the scenes but it hardly pays off. Anyways, please share your thoughts about this episode of Thora Sa Aasman.

Keep Supporting,
Cheers,
Zahra Mirza.

Mann Mayal – Episode 28

Fatima Awan
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Mann Mayal – Episode 28

OMG!!! This really is Shuk all over again. Tonight when Jeena insisted that Salahuddin should stay with her, I was reminded of the time when Sehrish (Ayesha’s character) pretended to be scared and asked Shaam to stay in her room so that Sania (Sanam’s character) would be jealous when she sees him coming out of her bedroom! I guess the whole idea was such a huge hit that the writer decided to do it all over again. After recreating other writers’ works by making some changes here and there, this time around Samira Fazal is being more creative by adding some minor changes to her own script which has already gone on air and is still fresh in the minds of the viewers!! The difference here is that Sham was married to Sehrish and Sania both but in this case Salahuddin is not married to any of these women yet he is so “cool” that he had no problem spending the night at Jeena’s house.

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Watching Mannu’s son talk to Mikael like he was not scared of him at all was very weird!! Mikael was never a good father and now that he has kidnapped his own kids, the kids have even more of a reason to be intimidated by him. This drama taught another lesson tonight which was that if you feel nothing for your kids, kick you wife out of your house and then kidnap your kids after a few weeks and you will automatically fall in love with your wife and kids! Mikael changed completely in only a few weeks or did he fall in love with his kids after spending a day with them? Howcome that never happened when they spent years with him in the same house?? The abrupt change in Mikael however doesn’t come as a surprise at all because showing a gradual change in him would have required effort and we all know by now that writer did not put in a lot of effort into writing this script.

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It is funny how Jamil’s character is being “used” at this point. Just like Jeena, Jamil cannot do anything right and now he has been turned into a victim. Jeena has fooled everyone in this drama with the exception of Mikael of course. Just like Numair’s character in Chup Raho, Jeena has everyone wrapped around her little finger. Salahuddin’s character and Hamza Ali Abbasi’s acting yet again was unimpressive in tonight’s episode. Why does Hamza Ali Abbasi put in so much effort into delivering those dialogues? Also, Salahuddin gets “distracted” too easily – he conveniently slept at Jeena’s place even though he knew Mannu was going through hell. He is also extremely selfish because now that he knows Mannu doesn’t want to marry him and has other options he is “naraz”!

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So, now Mikael wants Mannu back – how convenient! What happened to his plans and why is he so interested in the kids he only brought into this world because he wanted his father’s money?? The worst news today is that Mann Mayal isn’t ending even next week, it definitely did not look like it. Jamil still has to ‘redeem’ himself and there are also so many worthless matters which need to be taken care of. What happened to Mannu’s useless family? Now Mannu has to choose between her kidnapper ex-husband and selfish Salahuddin. We also learned tonight that Mannu is not stupid and that she can make her own decisions, it would be nice if she does take a decision for a change.

How many of you watched this episode??  Do share your thoughts about it.

 

Fatima Awan

Atif Aslam sings for Actor In Law

Rashid Nazir Ali
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Atif Aslam sings for Actor In Law

Actor In Law is an upcoming Urdu film but with an English name. The shooting of Actor In Law commenced in start of this 2016 and completed as per schedule. The film will be released on upcoming Eidul Azhad,on 13th or 14th September 2016.

Audience have high hopes from this film as the same team of Nabeel Qureshi (director), Fizza Ali Meerza (producer) and Fahad Mustafa (lead artist) provided the super hit entertainer Namaloom Afraad in 2014 on Eidul Azha.

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 trailer of the film was released on June 28th 2016. Its first song Dil Ye Dancer Ho gaya by Atif Aslam is released today

Song: Dil Yeh Dancer Ho Gaya
Singer: Atif Aslam
Music: Shani Arshad

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About Actor In Law

Film: Actor In Law
Starring:Fahad Mustafa,Mehwish Hayat,Alyy Khan,Om Puri,Saboor Ali,Irfan Motiwala,Rehan Sheikh,Lubna Aslam,Saleem Mairaj,Saife Hassan,Rashid Khawaja
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
Release Date: Eidul Azha on 13th or 14th September 2016

Trailer of the film released on 28th June 2016.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xlQB_40JGFk

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Rashid Nazir Ali

Sange Mar Mar on Hum Tv

Rashid Nazir Ali
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Sange Mar Mar on Hum Tv

Sange Mar Mar (سنگ مرمر) is an upcoming drama on Hum Tv. It is shot on scenic locations of Swat Valley in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. British-Pakistani artist Kubra Khan is playing the lead role in this drama with Mikaal Zulfiqar. Kubra Khan last appeared in the film Namaloom Afraad as a second heroine in 2014. The shooting of the drama started with the name Daasi (داسی) but then changed to Sange Mar Mar.

Starring: Noman Ijaz, Sania Saeed, Mikal Zulfiqar, Kubra Khan, Qazi Wajid, Omair Rana, Agha Mustafa, Uzma Hassan, Paras, Beenish, Hassan Noman, Tipu Sharif, Kaif Ghaznavi, Arshad Hussain, Khalida Yaseen, Naik Muhammad, Iffat Siddiqui, Zahida Tarha
Directed By:Saife Hassan
Written By:Mustafa Afridi
Produced by Momina Duraid

From promos it is evident that it is the story of a Pakhtoon family centred around the cliched theme of oppression against women. Our dramas are mostly based on the urban families happening in the cities of Karachi, Lahore and sometimes Islamabad. Few dramas in the recent past were based on rural Punjab or a Punjabi/Lahori family like Sadqay Tumhare and Pareet Na Karyo Koi.

However the stories of many other ethnicity/regions like Seraiki, Sindhi, Balochi, Pakhtoon, Brahvi, Chitral, Kashmiri, Pothohar, Thar, Cholistan, Gilgat/Baltistan are seldom covered in any drama. I hate to say that it is a rarity to saw any drama centered around a non-urban theme, and if it is the case it mostly shows the negative stereotypes. Like the drama based on interior Sindh will always show wadera, karo kaari. Similarly a drama on a Pakhtoon or Baloch will always show some fierce Sardar/Khan and wani/swara.

No one can deny the fact that these issues prevail in our society varying to different extent across different ethnicity. However the stories of rural areas are not limited to these topics, there can be many positive aspects too. Apart from always exploring the dark aspect of rural areas, the positive aspects must also be dramatized.

Few Behind the scenes clicks of Sange Mar Mar

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Kubra Khan with local Swati kids
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Mikaal Zulfiqar
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Omair Rana, Mikaal Zulfiqar
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Omair Rana, Nauman Ejaz, Mikaal Zulfiqar
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Mikaal Zulfiqar
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Mikaal Zulfiqar
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Nauman Ejaz, Sania Saeed, Mikaal Zulfiqar
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Mikaal Zulfiqar
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Nauman Ejaz, Mikaal Zulfiqar, Saife Hassan (Director)

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Rashid Nazir Ali

Mor Mahal – Episode 13!

Zahra Mirza
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Mor Mahal – Episode 13!

Ohkay so, to be honest, this episode of Mor Mahal was pretty decent. May be I feel that way because I have made myself understand that things in Mor Mahal are going to revolve around the ladies, their lives & their politics only, so if we watch this drama with that perspective, we can watch it just for the sake of it but if we’re going to have some expectations, then that’s going to be our fault only.

Akhtari convinced Badshah Begum that Meher Bano & Banki were putting up an act & for that reason, Badshah Begum ended up questioning Banki & she easily confessed that she was carrying Asif Jahan’s child. Badshah Begum has made it quite evident that she will go to any lengths to defeat Farrukh Zaad & also, she will do everything in her might to prevent Taimur from becoming the ruler after Asif Jahan, that is why, just in a split of a second she accepted what Banki told her as she knew she had that child that Badshah Begum was waiting for quite eagerly.

I must say, everything can be forgiven but what can’t is the fact that the walls of Mor Mahal are made of cardboard because the way everyone can hear everything from the basement is actually quite amusing. Meher Bano being a resident of the basement knows everything that transpires at the top floor & so does Shahista & also, I must say Shahista’s timing is perfect, it’s like she has these sensors in her body that tell her to go to the basement because there she will get to listen to something highly confidential & important. Also, looks like some novice architect designed Mor Mahal because the way Shahista & Meher Bano eavesdrop on Asif Jahan & Badshah Begum makes it look like their rooms are side by side, which is actually quite amusing considering how it is a Mahal & how there should be separate portions for everyone. I fail to believe that Asif Jahan & Badshah Begum share a wall because the way their voices are heard from the basement makes it look exactly like that. Anyways, Meher Bano, through the cardboard wall heard that Badshah Begum planned on getting rid of Banki once she gave birth to the baby of Asif Jahan, therefore she decided to swoop in & save the day, which she actually couldn’t!!!

I think before the crowning ceremony, Asif Jahan should’ve done something about Jamshed but he seems to be in a hurry for all the wrong reasons. He wanted to crown Banki & that’s when he got to know that she wasn’t his wife. At least Meher Bano did try to save Banki because she knew about the evil intentions of Badshah Begum, I guess when Meher Bano found enough courage in her to confess everything, she should’ve taken Badshah Begum’s name in front of Asif Jahan as well to make things a bit more clear & add more weight to her confessions that she wasn’t lying. Well, looks like Banki underestimated Asif Jahan’s love for her & she chose to end her life. That scene was a bit emotional only because Banki ended up dying for no good reason & also because she was the one that Asif Jahan truly loved. Banki was innocent & she didn’t deserve to die like that but no idea what was running through her mind.

Meher Bano ended up getting arrested & looks like things are once again in going to turn in Farrukh Zaad’s favor because Asif Jahan has lost his new born Jamshed & the hope of having another baby has died with the death of Banki too. Farrukh Zaad will once again end up having an upper hand because only her son Taimur is alive & it is imperative that he is going to succeed Asif Jahan. I actually thought that Surraya was killed but I was surprised to see her alive, I guess Asif Jahan is quite inconsistent when it comes to love because out of his love for Surraya he made sure to win a bet for her sake, but ever since she came in Mor Mahal, Asif Jahan didn’t really bother much about her & even now he seemed indifferent to her condition & suffering because he was to busy mourning the death of Banki; his new found love, while completely forgetting about the promise he made to Surraya about Jamshed. Well, honestly speaking, I won’t be surprised if I see a new female character making an entry in Asif Jahan’s life & if I see Asif Jahan falling madly in love with her (for a couple of episodes). Anyways, please share your thoughts about this episode of Mor Mahal.

Keep Supporting,
Cheers,
Zahra Mirza.

Bollywood’s Dishoom stuck in censor board

Rashid Nazir Ali
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0
Bollywood’s Dishoom stuck in censor board

Bollywood film Dishoom which was due to release on 29th July 2016 in Pakistan has not been released yet as it is still not cleared for screening by any censor board of Pakistan. As per the English Daily Dawn censor board has not yet formally announced any decision about the film

The promotion of the film was in full swing where the distributor has advertised the release of the film in all the leading Urdu and English dailies.

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As per English Daily Dawn,  the film Dishoom shows the two leads attempting to kidnap an Indian cricketer before an India-Pakistan cricket match.

The delay in the decision from the censor board has resulted in the rumors and it is widely reported in the Indian press that the film is banned. Even the leading artist of the film Varun Junaid Dhawan has tweeted showing his disappointment that the film is banned terming it as a wrong decision.

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So the release of the film is uncertain in Pakistan and it might get banned.

Every year around 50 – 60 Bollywood films are released in Pakistan. The screening of the Bollywood films has helped reviving the struggling cinema industry of Pakistan. In order to screen a Bollywood film in Pakistan it has to be imported after getting a No Objection Certificate from federal ministry. Once imported Bollywood films have to get a screening certificate from three censor boards operating in Pakistan. However every year few Bollywood films fail to get the certificate or NOC for various reasons. The most frequent reason is the content deemed as anti-Pakistan or anti-Islam by the censor board, then there are also few films which failed to get the screening certificate due to the content considered too obscene or adult by the censor board.

This year so far two Bollywood films have failed to get the censor certificate or NOC.

In January Bollywood’s Kiya Kool Hain Hum 3, was banned by censor board quoting “It is an out-and-out obscene film that not only shows nudity but also has a lot of vulgar content in its dialogues. The board has officially disallowed the film from public viewing and sent a show-cause notice to the distributor. The problem with this film is that we couldn’t even allow it with an Adult rating, it so vulgar”.

In February Bollywood’s Neerja also failed to get the No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the federal ministry required to import the film. The decision is said to be linked with the alleged anti-Pakistan content of the film.

Sources:

http://images.dawn.com/news/1175930/is-dishoom-banned-in-pakistan
http://tribune.com.pk/story/1033972/kyaa-kool-hain-hum-3-banned-in-pakistan/

Rashid Nazir Ali

Teri Meri Love Story – First song is out

Rashid Nazir Ali
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0
Teri Meri Love Story – First song is out

Teri Meri Love Story is an upcoming Urdu film releasing on 2nd September 2016. Produced in Lahore it is a romantic comedy and directed by Jawwad Bashir.

It is the second film directed by Jawwad Bashir, where the horror film Maya released last year in June 2015 was his first film.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. The trailer of this film was launched last week and now its first song Qatra Qatra is also released. Though the trailer of the film received a mixed response, this song Qatra Qatra is quite melodious.

Song: Qatra Qatra (قطرہ قطرہ)
Singers: Amanat Ali & Elizbeth Raji
Artist: Mohib Mirza, Ushnah Shah
Music Composed by: Afzal Hussain & Ahsan Parvaiz
Choreographed by: Nigah Hussain

About the Film

Film: Teri Meri Love Story (تیری میری لو اسٹوری)
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: 2 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 :Wasay Nabi & Nafay Nabi
Written by:Jawad Bashir & Ahmed Abdul Rehman
Directed by :Jawad Bashir
Distributed by: Summit Entertainment
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TeriMeriLoveStory2016

Trailer
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yx6j-gq9wFs

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Trailer courtesy of PakistaniCinema Fan page
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAgBFzV3J4hrbRMcBcsehvg
https://www.facebook.com/PakistaniCinema
Rashid Nazir Ali

Films coming in August

Rashid Nazir Ali
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0
Films coming in August

The month of August has started which also includes the independence day of Pakistan on the 14th August 2016. 14th August is a public holiday and like Eid Holidays provides a special occasion to release films. Last year after a gap of many years, three Urdu films were released on the independence day 14th August i.e. Shah, Moor, Dekh Magar Pyar Se .

However this year no Urdu film is releasing on the 14th August. An Urdu film Salute was earlier announced to release on the 12th August the weekend Friday preceding the Independance day weekend. Salute is based on the life of Aitzaz Ahsan a young boy from Hango, KPK who sacrificed his life to save his school fellows from a suicide bomber. But Salute is now delayed to September 2016 as two major Indian Bollywood films Mohenjodaro and Rustam are lined up to release on the same date.

On the whole so far two Urdu films are announced to be released in the month of August, both films are releasing in the first week of the month i.e 5th August 2016.

Dance Kahani (ڈانس کہانی)
As the name suggests Dance Kahani is claimed to be the first Pakistani film based completely on dance. It is not a mainstream film and have relatively unknown names in the cast.

Dance Kahani explores the underground dance culture and free running on the streets of Karachi. Its music is already out and can be accessed at these music platforms

Patari:http://patari.pk/home/artist/Dance-Kahani-OST
Taazi:http://taazi.com/DanceKahani
Soundcloud:https://soundcloud.com/user-787028960

Film:Dance Kahani (ڈانس کہانی)
Release Date: 5th August 2016
Language:Urdu, English
Starring:Madeleine Madeleine Hanna,Vernin U’chong,Alamdar Khan,Abdul Ghani,Shezi Khan,Ramiz Law,Abdul Rahim,Ali Parkour,Irfan,Imran Shaukat,Rahid Sami,Sabiha Zia ,Talat,Niggy Imtiaz,Barkat Ali, Asifa Ataka, Sajjad Ali,Farhan Baig
Directed by:Omar Hassan
Produced by:Zahir Ali and Omar Hassan
Written by:Omar Hassan
Screenplay by:Shabbir Siraj
Music by:Usman Bin Sohail
Cinematography:Asrad Ali
Edited by :Ahmed Ali
Production company:OSCO FILMS,99 FILMS,Ion Entertainment
Distributed by:Summit Entertainment
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dancekahani

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b1JfqdczJsI

Blind Love (بلائنڈ لو)
Blind Love is a commercial Urdu film produced in Lahore. It is shot in Lahore and scenic location of Northern Pakistan.

The cast consists of almost all new faces. Nimra Khan, Yasir Shah, Aamir Qureshi, Fawad Jalal, Imran Bukhtari all are making their debuts on big screen from this film. It is also the second film of Mathira after a gap of three years. Aamir Qureshi is playing the role of the villain in this film like his father Mustafa Qureshi who is the most well known villain of the Pakistani films.

Blind Love was lined up to release on Eidul Fitr on 6th July 2016, but relocated to 29th July 2016 as most of the shows at cinemas were allotted to Bollywood film Sultan. However on 29th July 2016 another Bollywood film Dishoom was releasing and thus Blind Love is again delayed by one week and now releasing on 5th August 2016. Ironically Bollywood film Dishoom was not given a censor certificate by the censor board.

Blind Love is the love story of a rich blind girl played by Nimra Shah. Blind Love is directed by Faisal Bukhari who is known for pure formula films.Faisal Bukhari’s last two films were also pure commercial flicks i.e. Bhai Log (2011) and Sultanat (2014). Following the same pattern Blind Love has romance, emotions, songs, dances, a bit of action, scenic locations and on top of it a steamy item number Butter Jawani which off course is shot on Mathira.

Film:Blind Love (بلائنڈ لو)
Release Date: 5 August 2016
Cast: Nimra Khan, Yasir Shah, Imran Bukhari, Mathira, Aamir Qureshi, Fawad Jalal
Genre: Love Action Thriller
Music: Naveed Nashad
Writer: M Parvez Kalim
Director: Faisal Bukhari
Producer: Mian Amjad Farzand, Ch.Zulfiqar Ahmed, Ch.Ijaz Kamran
Production Company: Producers Alliance
Distributed by: IMGC Global
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blindlovemovie

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A2ZczRRjCM4

So these are the Urdu films scheduled to releasing in August.

Trailer courtesy of PakistaniCinema Fan page
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAgBFzV3J4hrbRMcBcsehvg
https://www.facebook.com/PakistaniCinema

Rashid Nazir Ali

Kathputli – Episode 08!

Zahra Mirza
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Kathputli – Episode 08!

Ohkay so, this episode of Kathputli was good because it took the story forward in that direction which we didn’t expect. I know things are going to get difficult between Mehru & Ahad but for now, the way they both tried to make themselves understand the importance of this relationship was refreshing to see.

Mehru’s mother found out that her daughter has died & as expected, she couldn’t cope up with the news but she is fortunate enough to have a companion like Saira in that house who not only feels for her & Mehru, but also told her the truth to bring herself out of the misery. Zeenat knew this was going to be a tougher challenge where despite knowing that her daughter is alive, she’ll have to live like she doesn’t anymore only because of Ehtasham & Hassam. I actually want to see what punishment the writer has reserved for Ehtasham & Hassam because they both deserve the worst for putting their mother & sister through this!

Finally, Mehru & Ahad moved to Islamabad, but I wish they had shown an apartment being allotted to them because for 2 individuals, they didn’t need such a huge villa. Anyways, they moved & things were hard for Mehru at first because she didn’t know what to do & what to expect but it was good to see Ahad breaking the ice & trying to make things as normal as he could. He knows that Mehru has been through a lot & for that reason he puts his problems aside & considers what she must be feeling.

Mehru hasn’t come out of what she has been through that is why she is not mentally ready to understand what she should do in the situation that she’s in, where all of a sudden a stranger is expecting things from her & she doesn’t know how to react. I really liked how Ahad didn’t turn everything into an ego issue & tried to make her understand how they both need to work together to shape their lives up. Ahad knows that Mehru has lived a very difficult & different life, that is why her inconsideration didn’t bother him much & he turned it into an opportunity to make things a bit more clearer to Mehru by having a conversation with her. I also must say that I like how both Ahad & Mehru despite going through so much are curbing their worries & are enthusiastic about shaping their future, which is a rarity these days & we hardly get to see such characters in our dramas.

The entire scenario where Mehru didn’t eat anything followed by Ahad’s reaction was really done nicely. It was something that made Ahad realize that Mehru is dependent on him & on humanitarian grounds he needs to take care of smallest of the things that she might need. It is good that Ahad understands how important this entire opportunity is for both him & Mehru, that is why he wants to make the most of it & in that process, he didn’t mind encouraging & empowering Mehru too. To my surprise, I really liked Ahad’s approach that he adapted towards Mehru & the appreciation that he had towards the ease that came with this relationship.

Overall, this episode was great & I am glad that they are taking things forward. I still had a feeling that Mehru seemed a little immature but there was something admirable about her immaturity too. She is not used to such things & she is making it very clear which was actually funny. Looks like Ahad will take a trip to Karachi to meet his mother but will find out that she is no more & while he’ll be away, Mehru will realize that she is getting used to Ahad’s presence. I must say, to my surprise, I am actually looking forward to the next episode. Please share your thoughts about this episode of Kathputli.

Keep Supporting,
Cheers,
Zahra Mirza.

Coke Studio For The Deaf

Maryam
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Coke Studio For The Deaf

Coke Studio aims to blur all boundaries through the power of music. The producers, Bilal Maqsood and Faisal Kapadia feel that it is their duty to reach out to the whole of Pakistan so they are taking an initiative to reach out to the deaf community.

”9 million people in Pakistan have some sort of hearing impairment. They can experience the rhythm of music through touch and sight, and Coke Studio believes that music is a feeling everyone should experience.”

Watch this wonderful video:

An event was held by Coke Studio and celebrities including Ahsan Khan, Junaid Khan and Zeb Bangash attended it. 

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Celebrities Spotted At LSA Afterparty

Maryam
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Celebrities Spotted At LSA Afterparty

So the star-studded and glamorous LSA 2016 were followed by an afterparty which was also, obviously, a star-studded affair. These people sure know how to celebrate!

IMG_20160731_195941 IMG_20160731_200356 IMG_20160731_200606 IMG_20160731_200432 IMG_20160731_200008 IMG_20160731_195856 IMG_20160731_200136

IMG_20160731_200516

Mahira Khan Talks About ”Raees”

Maryam
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Mahira Khan Talks About ”Raees”

There’s been a lot of buzz about Mahira Khan’s Bollywood debut alongside the King of all Khans, Shah Rukh Khan, but Mahira herself doesn’t talk much about the much anticipated ‘‘Raees”.

However, at the Vogue Beauty Awards, Mahira shared a bit about how she is feeling now that the release date is not too far. “It’s my dream come true to work with Shah Rukh and also I am very excited about Raees. But more than this, I am nervous too. It feels like I am under pressure to show my acting skills.”

srk-mahira-khan-759

She also shared a memorable moment shared with SRK. “The first scene, I thought I would be doing it smoothly, but as he (Shah Rukh) came in front of me, I forgot my lines. I will always remember that
incident.”

Mahira understands that being a Pakistani actress, she has a great deal of responsibility on her shoulders. “Being artists (from Pakistan), we have been trying to represent our country. I hope I can do a good job, because I feel only that country develops which gives respect to its
artists.”

raes

When asked about the possibility of working with Fawad Khan again, “I know people loved our chemistry, but we both are busy with our projects. Therefore, it’s going to be tough.”

All the best to Mahira for her film, Raees. Do us proud!

Source: Express Tribune

Udaari – Episode 17

Fatima Awan
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Udaari – Episode 17

This drama deserves tons of credit for showing some very strong women who are always there to support each other. It is truly refreshing watching Sheedan taking a stand for Sajida without thinking about the consequences or Milli’s mother helping all the women who come to her without expecting anything in return. Also, Udaari has some exceptional mothers who put their children above everything else, just the way most mothers do. The viewers saw some of the most strange mothers in drama serials like Chup Raho and Sangat therefore watching someone like Sajida gives us hope that there are still writers out there who believe in showing what a mother should do and not what a mother shouldn’t be doing! This drama has set new standards by showing a very positive image of women in general too. Usually in our dramas women are not only weak but they are most often in a bad situation because of another woman. Also, unlike most of our dramas in which even the most intelligent and good looking women who belong to a good family are incomplete without a man we have a woman like Sheedan who is not educated but she does not rely on anyone else except her own strength. We need to see more strong women in our dramas who use their strength to benefit themselves and others. Sheedan’s character in particular can prove to be an inspiration for many women out there who belong to the same class as Sheedan. The message Sheedan’s character gives is loud and clear – you don’t have to be educated or rich to have self-confidence, all you need is to have faith in yourself! Bushra Ansari was outstanding as Sheedan tonight; Sheedan was scared of Imtiaz too but she did not let him intimidate her. udari Ahsan Khan has outdone himself in this drama; he has made this character unforgettable! His expressions, dialogues and those little additions here and there which I am sure are his very own are extremely impressive. Imtiaz has waited very long to take revenge from Sajida and now that he has found her, he is going to do everything it takes to make her life hell. Sheedan is no match for Imtiaz but Milli’s mother’s scene with Arsh showed exactly where the story will go from here. Imtiaz has friends in the police force and he will use his contacts. The fact that Imtiaz is not only a paedophile but he is also someone who kills people for money will work in Sajida’s favor once she takes him to court. Zebu wanted to die after finding out that Imtiaz was still alive and that her mother wanted to distance herself from her but I must say I had a tough time relating to Zebu’s character. Hina Altaf Khan’s acting wasn’t remarkable in this episode. Ejaz also revealed a secret to prove to Zebu that he knew exactly how she felt and he might be used as a witness later on. Ins-e-Yazdan is okay for a newcomer but the chemistry that was there between the young Zebu and Jaza was completely missing from this episode. That scene in which Ejaz shared his feelings with Zebu did not work for me at all mainly because of the fact that there was zero chemistry between the actors and Ins-e-Yazdan’s dialogue delivery  and facial expressions weren’t very impressive. I understand that there are very few young actors in our industry who could have played this role therefore we need new young actors who will get more polished with time. udari Am I the only one who felt like most of the actors looked too white in this episode? Arsh’s new look however was spot on, it made him look more mature. The scene in which Sajida was taken away by the police was shown in the preview of this episode but was missing from it and will be shown next week. This episode laid the foundation for what is coming ahead. The story is quite predictable at this point but it remains to be seen how it is translated on screen. It will be interesting to watch Imtiaz’s downfall, something I am looking forward to. How many of you watched this latest installment? Do share your thoughts about it.   Fatima Awan

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