Current Final

Author: News Desk

  • Ayaz Khan gifts Ajrak to Johnny Lever in heartwarming cultural exchange video

    Ayaz Khan gifts Ajrak to Johnny Lever in heartwarming cultural exchange video

    In a heartwarming display of cross-border camaraderie, Pakistani actor Ayaz Khan shared a touching moment with Indian comedy legend Johnny Lever during a podcast appearance in Dubai.

    In the video shared by Ayaz on Instagram, the actor is seen gifting Johnny an Ajrak — a traditional Sindhi shawl symbolizing respect and hospitality. Their exchange is light-hearted and genuine, with both artists speaking a few words in Sindhi. When Ayaz asks, “Do you speak Sindhi?” Johnny smiles and responds, “Yes, a little bit”, delighting fans from both sides of the border.

    Captioning the video, Ayaz wrote: “A podcast with Johnny Lever in Dubai… In a light mood… Stated that comedy doesn’t bother about border… laughing is a need for human beings.”

    Ayaz Khan, a well-known Pakistani television and film actor, is celebrated for his impactful roles in dramas and his humble, down-to-earth personality. Known for his profound appreciation of culture and tradition, Ayaz often uses his platform to promote harmony and mutual respect. Khawab Suhane, Aisay Nahi Kaisay, Aadha Chehra, Anhoni are among his popular plays. Whereas, the younger generation know him as Sher Khan, from the famous ongoing television serial Bulbulay.

    Johnny Lever, on the other hand, is one of India’s most iconic comedians, with a career spanning over four decades in Bollywood. He has worked in dozens of Bollywood films including Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, Awara Paagal Deewana, Bazeegar, Housefull 5, Khatta Meetha, Golamal Again and many more.

    This simple yet powerful interaction highlights the unifying power of laughter and culture. Amid ongoing political tensions in the region, such moments serve as a reminder that kindness, respect, and shared humanity can bridge even the widest divides.

  • Saudi Arabia, US in talks over defence deal: reports

    Saudi Arabia, US in talks over defence deal: reports

    Weeks after it signed a mutual defence pact with Pakistan, Saudi Arabia is reportedly in discussions with the United States (US) over a defence deal that both sides hope to finalise when Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman visits the White House next month.

    According to the Financial Times, a senior Trump administration official told the publication that there were “discussions about signing something when the crown prince comes, but the details are in flux”.

    The proposed agreement, reports said, is similar to the US-Qatar pact, which commits Washington to treat any armed attack on Qatar as a threat to the US. That deal follows Israel’s attempt last month to target Hamas leaders in Doha with an airstrike.

    The State Department was quoted as saying that defence cooperation with Saudi Arabia remained a “strong bedrock of regional strategy”.

    When contacted by Reuters, the State Department, the White House and the Saudi government did not comment on the report that also said the Kingdom has been seeking defence guarantees as part of Washington’s wider efforts to normalise relations between Riyadh and Israel.

  • ‘Ball in Afghanistan’s court,’ says PM as 48-hour ceasefire deadline approaches

    ‘Ball in Afghanistan’s court,’ says PM as 48-hour ceasefire deadline approaches

    As the two countries observe a 48-hour ceasefire ending tonight, Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif has said that the ball is in Afghanistan’s court for a permanent end to cross-border hostilities.

    Addressing a federal cabinet meeting on Pak-Afghan border tensions, the premier said that Pakistan remains ready to hold talks with the Taliban regime on reasonable terms, adding that the recent cross-border aggression from Afghan side was at India’s behest.

    Taliban forces, along with India-backed Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), had earlier this week resorted to an unprovoked attack on Pakistan, prompting a strong response from Islamabad. At least 200 Afghan Taliban and affiliated militants were killed in said clashes while 23 Pakistani soldiers embraced martyrdom.

    The attacks that came as Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi was on an official visit to India, ended with the ceasefire agreed to at the request of Afghan Taliban on the evening of Oct 15.

    “Unfortunately, despite all efforts, [Taliban regime in] Afghanistan did not prioritise peace and adopted the path of aggression,” reports quoted the premier as saying during Thursday’s meeting.

    Highlighting the recent spike in terror incidents in the country, he said Pakistan had to launch a full-scale retaliatory action as patience had run out amid Afghan Taliban regime’s inaction over Islamabad’s concerns.

    Meanwhile, the United Nations (UN) has called on the warring forces to permanently end hostilities.

    In a statement issued on Thursday, the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire and called on all parties “to bring a lasting end to hostilities to protect civilians and prevent further loss of life”.

    It also urged both Pakistan and Afghanistan to comply with their obligations under international law “to prevent” more civilian casualties.

    Qatar, Saudi Arabia, China and Russia all called for de-escalation.

    Qatar expressed “concern” over “the potential repercussions for the security and stability of the region” in a statement to X. Saudi Arabia, which recently signed a defence pact with Pakistan, also called for “restraint and dialogue”.

    The fighting also drew the attention of United States (US) President Donald Trump, who offered to broker peace. “I hear there’s a war now going on between Pakistan and Afghanistan,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One.

    “I’m good at solving wars, I’m good at making peace,” he added.

  • Pakistani brand enters WWE ring as Seth Rollins rocks ‘Dreams of Arthur’ suit

    Pakistani brand enters WWE ring as Seth Rollins rocks ‘Dreams of Arthur’ suit

    Pakistani fashion is leaving its mark on the global stage, this time being featured in a WWE ring. 

    WWE World Champion Seth Rollins recently turned heads when he appeared at WWE RAW wearing a three-piece tailored “Khes Set” by the Pakistani brand Dreams of Arthur.

    The brand proudly shared the moment on Instagram, posting a series of photos of Rollins in the stunning outfit with the caption: “WWE World Champion @wwerollins wearing our three-piece tailored ‘Khes Set’ at WWE RAW lookinggg , Styled by @kingtroi .”

    Instagram Post

    Fans couldn’t hold back their excitement in the comments. One user wrote, “U nailed it,” while another cheered, “Good luck, keep going!” Even Rollins’ stylist, @kingtroi, jumped in with a string of fire emojis , clearly proud of how the look turned out.

    It wasn’t Rollins’ first time donning Pakistani fashion. Earlier, he wore a piece from Rastah, another Lahore-based brand known for merging traditional craftsmanship with modern streetwear.

    It’s safe to say Lahore’s fashion scene has found a fan in Seth Rollins.

  • From Lahore to limelight: Sundus Shaheryar’s bold footwear walks into fashion history

    From Lahore to limelight: Sundus Shaheryar’s bold footwear walks into fashion history

    Pakistani designer Sundus Shaheryar is making headlines for her groundbreaking work in international fashion and her sculptural footwear for Marc Jacobs.

    Born and raised in Lahore and now based in New York, Sundus has carved out a space for herself at the forefront of global fashion. A graduate of the prestigious Parsons School of Design, she currently works as an accessories designer at Marc Jacobs — a label under the Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy (LVMH) luxury group. Known for her conceptual, exaggerated and sculptural designs, her work is redefining how accessories, particularly footwear, are viewed in high fashion.

    Sundus’ latest triumph came when her designs were featured in Vogue USA’s landmark December 2024 issue — the first-ever guest-edited in the magazine’s history under Anna Wintour. Marc Jacobs himself curated the issue, and it includes a striking cover story featuring supermodel Kaia Gerber wearing Sundus’ bold footwear. The editorial was lensed by iconic photographer Steven Meisel and styled by legendary fashion editor Grace Coddington.

    This feature also marks a significant moment for Pakistani representation in fashion media. Sundus is the first Pakistani designer to be highlighted in Vogue USA’s main cover story — a remarkable feat that further solidifies her status as an international talent.

    “I think I was born with an eye for beauty and a love for creating it,” Sundus shared in an interview with The Sunday Times. “Maybe it was meant to be — my name, Sundus, literally means the finest silk.”

    She has also made a mark in the fashion industry by creating stunning shoes for big names like Kendall Jenner and Paris Hilton at Met Gala 2023.

    Her journey from sketching and dreaming in Lahore to making waves on the global runway is not just a personal victory, but a win for Pakistani fashion as a whole. While several Pakistani designers have gained recognition internationally — like HSY for his wedding couture, Sara Shakeel for her crystal artwork on Billie Eilish’s cover shoot and Maheen Khan for dressing the Duchess of Cambridge — Sundus’ inclusion in Vogue USA sets a new precedent.

    What began as a childhood passion for colour, form and self-expression has grown into a career that is shaping the future of fashion.

    As more Pakistani creatives gain global visibility, Sundus Shaheryar stands tall among them as a symbol of innovation, resilience and style that knows no borders.

  • Aston Villa bans Israeli fans from stadium

    Aston Villa bans Israeli fans from stadium

    Aston Villa has banned fans of Israeli club Maccabi Tel Aviv from entering Villa Park for their upcoming UEFA Europa League match, citing safety concerns, foreign media reported.

    The match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Aston Villa is scheduled for November 6 as part of the UEFA Europa League, the second biggest club competition in European football after the Champions League.

    The Safety Advisory Group (SAG), the authority responsible for issuing safety certificates for matches, advised Aston Villa that Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters should not be allowed to attend the match in Birmingham due to potential protests and security risks.

    Aston Villa stated that the safety of all attending fans and local residents remained the top priority.

    “Following the meeting, SAG provided a written directive to the club and UEFA that no Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters will be permitted to attend the match at Villa Park,” the club said in a statement.

    The West Midlands Police classified the match as “high risk”, citing existing intelligence and previous incidents of violence involving Maccabi Tel Aviv fans.

    A police spokesperson said the decision was made considering recent violent clashes and hate crimes, including those during the 2024 Europa League match between Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv in Amsterdam.

    Videos that circulated widely on social media in November 2024 showed Maccabi supporters in Amsterdam, vandalising property, attacking a local Arab taxi driver and clashing with law enforcement. Reports also showed Israeli fans burning Palestinian flags both inside and outside the stadium, which led to unrest in the city.

    Meanwhile, Prime Minister Keir Starmer criticised Aston Villa’s decision, saying that anti-semitism should not be tolerated on British streets.

    “The role of the police is to ensure that all football fans can enjoy the game without fear of violence or threat,” Starmer said on social media.

    Aston Villa maintains that the decision to restrict entry was made purely to prevent possible unrest and ensure public safety.

    It may be noted that since the start of Israel’s military actions in Gaza, Israeli fans across Europe have been involved in aggressive behaviour and frequent confrontations with pro-Palestinian protesters.

    Although Israel’s national football team was eliminated from the FIFA World Cup qualifiers after losing to Italy, anti-Israel demonstrations have continued during their matches, with repeated calls for FIFA and UEFA to ban Israeli clubs and the national team.

  • Jacqueline Fernandez, Rashmika Mandanna spotted in Iqbal Hussain’s creations, celebrating style across borders

    Jacqueline Fernandez, Rashmika Mandanna spotted in Iqbal Hussain’s creations, celebrating style across borders

    Bollywood stars Jacqueline Fernandez and Rashmika Mandanna were recently spotted donning stunning outfits by renowned Pakistani designer Iqbal Hussain, once again highlighting the growing popularity of Pakistani designers across borders, particularly in India.

    Indian actress Jacqueline Fernandez was seen wearing a fiery, fully embroidered red saree by Iqbal Hussain at a Diwali gala. The saree featured heavily embroidered tilla and zardozi work borders on three sides, with intricate detailing on the pallu. The actress looked effortlessly gorgeous, carrying the ensemble gracefully. Her hair was side-parted and pulled back into a sleek high ponytail. Fans were quick to dub her a “laal pari [red fairy]”. She completed the look with a golden purse adorned with cut-dana embroidery, a gold and green Kundan necklace and traditional gold karras.

    Meanwhile, Animal fame actress Rashmika Mandanna was seen wearing a black pishwas designed by Iqbal Hussain at a reality show to promote her upcoming film. The outfit, crafted from pure katan silk, was adorned with dense, diamond-shaped booti embroidery throughout and featured a V-neckline with hand-embroidered marrori and sequins along the borders. The actress chose to wear her hair open and paired the look with classic jhumkas.

    This is not the first time Indian celebrities have opted for outfits by Pakistani designers, or Iqbal Hussain in particular. Bollywood’s celebrated Malaika Arora was previously featured in a saree by Iqbal Hussain in late September 2025. Images and reels of Arora in the designer’s creation quickly went viral on social media platforms.

    In 2024, Kareena Kapoor Khan was also seen wearing an Iqbal Hussain dress during the 100th birth anniversary celebration of her grandfather, the legendary Raj Kapoor.

    Pakistani designers are not only making waves in South Asia but are also leaving a significant mark internationally. Recently, designer Hussain Rehar showcased his Spring/Summer 2026 collection, Jeevan, at Paris Fashion Week. The collection was praised for blending Pakistani aesthetics with Western influences, incorporating rich embroidery, sequins and a striking color palette, including white, black and crimson.

    Veteran designer Maheen Khan has made international headlines multiple times, notably dressing the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, during her official visit to Pakistan. She also made history by presenting her collection at Milan Fashion Week in 2010.

    Designer Deepak Perwani was another Pakistani talent who took center stage at Milan Fashion Week in 2010. His collection, titled ‘From Rural to the Runway’, aimed to elevate local crafts to high fashion, showcasing traditional elements in a modern context.

    The contemporary brand Rastah has also earned international acclaim, with its pieces being worn at major global events, establishing itself as a powerful name in cross-cultural fashion.

    In 2016, Lahore-based designer Ali Xeeshan, known for his avant-garde aesthetic, presented a show at Fashion Parade London. His collection featured signature Xeeshan elements — bold silhouettes, heavy embellishments and dramatic headpieces — all handmade by his atelier in Lahore.

    Other prominent Pakistani designers such as Omar Mansoor, Sania Maskatiya and many others have also enjoyed significant international exposure, further establishing Pakistan as a powerhouse in the global fashion landscape.

  • Man killed, brother injured in Khanewal after firing on couple who married of their own choice

    Man killed, brother injured in Khanewal after firing on couple who married of their own choice

    A tragic incident took place in Khanewal’s 88 Chak area where gunmen opened fire on a couple who had married for love. The attack left the husband dead and his brother seriously injured.

    According to reports, the victim, Shahid, had married Ayesha from Shorkot about a month and a half ago. The couple had been hiding in the rural area of Khanewal after receiving threats from the woman’s family.

    Police said both Shahid and Ayesha were residents of Shorkot. Shahid was already married and had three children.

    Officials said that before the attack, a panchayat (village council) was held at the house of Iftikhar Arain. During the meeting, it was decided that Shahid would divorce Ayesha, and in return, Ayesha’s brother would divorce Shahid’s 13-year-old sister.

    Shahid’s uncle said that under pressure from the panchayat, Shahid’s underage sister was married to Ayesha’s younger brother. However, after returning from the meeting, Ayesha’s brothers opened fire on Shahid, Ayesha, and Shahid’s brother.

    The firing killed Shahid on the spot and seriously injured his brother. Police reached the scene soon after receiving the report.

    The District Police Officer (DPO) of Khanewal said that special teams have been formed to arrest the suspects and that they will be caught soon.

  • Test Twenty: Tests, T20s combined for new cricketing format

    Test Twenty: Tests, T20s combined for new cricketing format

    A brand-new cricket format, Test Twenty, has been launched on Thursday, October 16, bringing a fresh twist to the game. 

    Backed by cricket legends AB de Villiers, Harbhajan Singh, Sir Clive Lloyd, and Matthew Hayden, the format aims to mix the strategy of Test cricket with the fast-paced thrill of T20s.

    Created by sports entrepreneur Gaurav Bahirvani, Executive Chairman of The One One Six Network, Test Twenty is set to become the fourth format in international cricket.

    Test Twenty will be played over 80 overs, with two innings of 20 overs per side. The format will keep traditional results such as win, loss, tie, or draw, while ensuring fast, one-day action that suits modern audiences.

    At the heart of Test Twenty is an AI Discovery Engine, a technology that uses video analysis, motion sensors, and data science to assess player skills fairly. Through global tech-transfer partnerships, this system will help cricket boards and academies around the world identify talent transparently.


    What legends said about Test Twenty

    AB de Villiers said the format respects cricket’s roots while looking towards the future.

    “Test Twenty is innovation with intent. It honours the traditions of the game while embracing the possibilities of the future. It gives young players a new dream to chase and fans a new story to follow,” he said.

    Sir Clive Lloyd called it a thoughtful evolution of the sport. he said, “The game has always adapted, but never this thoughtfully. Test Twenty brings back the art and rhythm of the sport, yet keeps it alive with modern energy.”

    Matthew Hayden believes it bridges eras of cricket.

    “This format carries the wisdom of the old world into the fire of the new. For young players, it’s a chance to grow not just as athletes, but as people,” Hayden said.

    Harbhajan Singh pointed out that the game needed something new to reconnect with the youth: “Cricket needed a fresh heartbeat, something that connects today’s youth with the game’s original spirit. Test Twenty does exactly that.”

    The first Test Twenty season will begin in January 2026, featuring six global franchises. Three teams will be based in Indian cities, while the other three will represent Dubai, London, and the United States. Each squad will include 16 players, evenly divided between eight Indian and eight international cricketers, marking the start of a new era in cricket.

  • ‘Not haram’: Hira Somroo on rumors of Fahad Mustafa’s alleged second marriage

    ‘Not haram’: Hira Somroo on rumors of Fahad Mustafa’s alleged second marriage

    Pakistani actress Hira Somroo has put in her two cents on the rumors of superstar Fahad Mustafa’s alleged second marriage, saying that if he has tied the knot again, it is a commendable step as he has done it the right way and not committed a sin. 

    Speaking during her recent appearance on the FHM podcast, Hira discussed inappropriate behavior within the entertainment industry and also addressed the speculation surrounding Fahad Mustafa’s personal life.

    For several weeks, rumors have circulated that the Quaid-e-Azam Zindabad star secretly got married for the second time, though Fahad Mustafa has yet to comment publicly on the matter. However, sources privy to the matter have told The Current that the allegations are not true.

    When asked about the rumors, Hira defended the actor, saying, “Fahad Mustafa is a very decent man. I’ve never heard a single inappropriate thing about him.”

    She further added, “If he has gotten married again, then that’s a very good thing. He got married directly. He didn’t do anything haram. His first wife is also a very understanding woman, I’m sure she’ll understand.”

    The actress expressed confidence that if the rumors are true, the situation would be handled maturely. “I don’t think there would be any fights or drama. I think everyone will live happily,” she said.

    During the podcast, Hira also shed light on her own experiences in the entertainment industry, revealing how some colleagues have behaved inappropriately.

    “Many people in the industry have tried to start inappropriate conversations with me,” she revealed, though she declined to name individuals. “It usually starts with a compliment, and then by midnight, they start asking for pictures.”

    She added that she has often received offers to go out, but has always rejected them firmly. “I just give them a shut-up call and move on,” she said.

    Concluding her remarks, Hira stated bluntly: “If anyone from this industry claims they’ve never experienced such behavior, they’re lying.”