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Author: News Desk

  • Hollywood actors, directors pledge to boycott Israeli film institutions

    Hollywood actors, directors pledge to boycott Israeli film institutions

    More than 1,200 filmmakers, actors and industry professionals, including prominent Hollywood figures like Olivia Colman, Ava DuVernay and Tilda Swinton, have signed a pledge not to work with certain Israeli film institutions.

    The pledge was made in an open letter published by Film Workers for Palestine – a group that campaigns for the end of the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip – on Monday.

    “In this urgent moment of crisis, where many of our governments are enabling the carnage in Gaza, we must do everything we can to address complicity in that unrelenting horror,” the letter read.

    The signatories, which also include director Adam McKay, actor Mark Ruffalo and actress Ayo Edebiri, pledged not to screen films, appear at, or otherwise work with, Israeli cinemas, broadcasters and production companies that “are implicated in genocide and apartheid against the Palestinian people”.

    The group said it had been inspired by Filmmakers United Against Apartheid, a movement that in the 1980s worked to end apartheid in South Africa.

    Last month, a group of academic experts known as the International Association of Genocide Scholars declared that Israel’s actions in Gaza had met the legal definition of genocide. According to Gaza health officials, more than 60,000 Palestinians have so far been killed by Israeli occupational forces.

    Film Workers for Palestine said its pledge did not prohibit working with Israeli individuals. “The call is for film workers to refuse to work with Israeli institutions that are complicit in Israel’s human rights abuses against the Palestinian people,” it said on its website. “This refusal takes aim at institutional complicity, not identity.”

    The organisation said that while a few Israeli film entities “are not complicit”, a vast majority of the country’s “film production and distribution companies, sales agents, cinemas and other film institutions have never endorsed the full, internationally recognised rights of the Palestinian people”.

    The group added that Israel’s major film festivals, including the Jerusalem Film Festival, continue to partner with the Israeli government.

    Other signatories of the pledge include actress Cynthia Nixon, and Yorgos Lanthimos, the director of the upcoming film “Bugonia”. Javier Bardem, Susan Sarandon and Indya Moore partnered with Film Workers for Palestine on Instagram to share a post explaining the pledge.

    The pledge comes after a recent pro-Palestinian demonstration at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival drew thousands of participants.

    The protest gained momentum after Venice4Palestine, a group of Italian and international film professionals, released an open letter demanding that the festival condemned the destruction and suffering caused by Israel’s atrocities in Gaza.

  • Rahat Fateh Ali Khan has a major colab surprise for his fans

    Rahat Fateh Ali Khan has a major colab surprise for his fans

    Legendary Pakistani singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan has added yet another feather to his cap with the release of a very unexpected colab venture.

    The singing sensation has sang his first-ever Bengali song titled Tumi Amar Prem Piyasha.

    The soulful duet, performed alongside renowned Bangladeshi singer Rubayyat Jahan, marks a significant cultural collaboration between two rich musical traditions.

    Famed for his mastery of qawwali, ghazal, and classical music, Rahat brings his emotive depth and vocal prowess to this Bengali composition, delivering a performance that has resonated deeply with audiences.

    Released on Rahat’s Instagram account, the song quickly went viral, drawing thousands of fans and admirers from around the globe.

    “Penned by the poetic genius Kabir Bakul and composed by the maestro Raja Kaasheff, this timeless creation is now streaming exclusively on Dhruba Music Station’s YouTube channel,” the caption read on the post.

    Bengali fans praised Rahat’s flawless Bengali pronunciation, with many commenting that his rendition felt as if he had been singing in the language his entire life. Comments poured in lauding his versatility, emotional delivery, and seamless adaptation to a new linguistic and cultural landscape.

    Rubayyat Jahan’s vocals were also widely celebrated, with fans noting how her soulful voice and emotive performance complemented Rahat’s style to create a harmonious duet. Together, the duo succeeded in crafting a cross-cultural masterpiece that resonated with both Pakistani and Bangladeshi audiences.

    With Tumi Amar Prem Piyasha, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan has once again proved his unparalleled ability to connect through music, regardless of language or geography. His illustrious career includes unforgettable hits like Meray Paas Tum Ho, Afreen Afreen, Dil To Bachcha Hai, Main Jahaan Rahoon, O Re Piya, Teri Ore, and Teri Meri.

  • NIC Islamabad: where Pakistan’s next wave of startups is being built — inside and outside the room

    NIC Islamabad: where Pakistan’s next wave of startups is being built — inside and outside the room

    In a country where entrepreneurship has long been an undercurrent rather than a mainstream force, the National Incubation Centre (NIC) Islamabad is rapidly emerging as the hub where ideas evolve into companies — and where companies prepare to meet the market. Backed by the Ministry of IT & Telecom through Ignite National Technology Fund, and managed by a consortium of leading corporates, NIC Islamabad is not just another co-working space. It is a purpose-built ecosystem designed to accelerate the country’s most ambitious founders.

    A Home for Innovators

    Walk into the NIC campus and the first impression is scale. Open-plan co-working areas hum with activity, supported by high-speed connectivity, dedicated meeting rooms, and fully equipped conference halls. There are spaces for workshops, exhibition displays, and investor forums — even a café and lounge to encourage informal networking.

    Unlike many incubation setups that limit themselves to providing desks and internet, NIC Islamabad is rolling out facilities that anticipate future needs. From design and makerspaces for product prototyping to training labs for UI/UX, the infrastructure is intended to support founders tackling everything from health-tech devices to deep-tech AI applications. The focus is clear: to remove friction for founders so they can focus on building.

    Learning from the Best

    NIC Islamabad has partnered with world-class accelerator platforms to deliver a structured curriculum that takes entrepreneurs from idea validation to investor readiness. Among its most prominent partners is the Founder Institute, one of the world’s largest pre-seed startup accelerators. This collaboration ensures that Pakistani startups access the same frameworks and mentorship available to founders in Silicon Valley, Berlin, or Singapore.

    In addition, NIC Islamabad has partnered with MassChallenge, bringing international expertise and structured growth models to Pakistan’s innovation ecosystem. Through these programs, startups engage in cohort-based workshops, one-to-one mentoring clinics, and speaker sessions with some of the country’s and world’s most successful entrepreneurs.

    “Startups in Islamabad are no longer isolated,” says one founder currently incubated at NIC. “We’re learning from global playbooks while staying connected to local investors and markets. That mix is priceless.”

    The Power of Networks

    NIC Islamabad’s secret sauce lies not only in training but in connectivity. Through its consortium model, it has direct access to some of Pakistan’s largest corporate groups:

    • Hashoo Group (Pakistan Services Limited)
    • Fauji Foundation
    • Telenor Pakistan
    • Change Mechanics
    • CyberVision International

    These organizations provide domain expertise, pilot opportunities, and potential pathways to commercialization. Meanwhile, Ignite ensures alignment with national digital transformation priorities.

    Founders also gain access to investor communities — angels, venture capitalists, and institutional funds. Regular investor showcases and curated pitch sessions help connect startups with the capital they need to scale. Beyond investors, NIC also facilitates introductions to corporates, alumni founders, and global mentors, building a network effect that outlasts the incubation program.

    Sector Focus: From Health-Tech to Deep AI

    One of NIC Islamabad’s defining features is its deliberate focus on sector verticals that matter for Pakistan’s future economy. Startups currently incubated span:

    • Health-Tech: from telemedicine solutions to biomedical devices
    • Deep AI: applying machine learning to industries from agriculture to defense
    • IoT, Robotics & UAVs: pushing boundaries in automation and smart infrastructure
    • Clean & Green Tech: addressing sustainability and energy challenges

    By encouraging founders to go beyond consumer apps and into technically ambitious areas, NIC Islamabad is positioning itself as the home of frontier innovation in Pakistan.

    Applications Open Now

    As NIC Islamabad celebrates these milestones, it is also preparing for its next cohort intake. Applications for Cohort 4 are currently open, with a deadline set for 12 September 2025. Successful applicants will gain access not just to space and mentorship, but to the full spectrum of NIC Islamabad’s ecosystem: corporates, investors, alumni, and international partners.

    “Joining NIC Islamabad was the turning point for us,” says Sana Khattak, co-founder of a health-tech startup. “We came in with a prototype, and we’re leaving with investor connections, pilot customers, and the confidence to scale.”

    Why It Matters

    In a global economy where technology increasingly determines competitiveness, NIC Islamabad’s role is more than just supporting entrepreneurs. It is about ensuring that Pakistan can produce the companies, products, and technologies that will shape its economic future.

    By combining physical infrastructure, international curriculum, local mentorship, and direct investor access, NIC Islamabad is not just incubating startups — it is incubating Pakistan’s future.

  • Saboor Aly opens up about emotional journey into motherhood

    Saboor Aly opens up about emotional journey into motherhood

    Pakistani actress Saboor Aly has, for the first time, opened up about her emotional journey into motherhood, revealing details about her pregnancy and the birth of her daughter Serena Ali.

    In a heartfelt conversation with fellow actress Aymen Saleem, Saboor reflected on the deeply personal and transformative experience.

    Saboor, who tied the knot with actor Ali Ansari in 2022, welcomed her daughter Serena on March 18, 2025. The couple announced the birth publicly the following day, March 19, via social media.

    Recalling the moment when she discovered she was pregnant, Saboor revealed that she was on a girls’ trip abroad when she began to feel unwell. “A sensation unlike anything I had felt before. Coincidentally, Ali was set to join me that day in Turkey,” she said.

    “We were not planning for a baby specifically. We had left it to the flow of life, believing that only Allah knows the right time to bring someone into your life,” she said. “When Ali arrived, the first thing I did was tell him the news. It was a very emotional moment for me.”

    Following the revelation, Saboor felt an intense desire to return home. “I knew once I got home, everything would be fine. My home is my safe space,” she shared.

    When asked about her initial reaction to finding out she was expecting, Saboor described it as a “mixed feeling”. She said she was shivering and anxious, eagerly awaiting Ali’s arrival to share the news. “But when I saw the test report, my mother was the first person who came to my mind,” she added.

    Reflecting on the absence of her late mother, Saboor shared a deeply emotional insight, “No one can fill her absence, but throughout my pregnancy, delivery, and even after, everything somehow became easier. I believe she was there with me in spirit. That’s the only reason it all felt so manageable.”

    Despite being someone who enjoys surprises, Saboor chose not to make a grand reveal due to how she was feeling. She called only her sister-in-law Mariyum Ansari and her sister, Sajal Aly, to her place. Interestingly, Sajal had already sensed something. “She just texted me and asked, ‘Are you pregnant?’ She had a feeling somehow,” Saboor recalled.

    Saboor also shared a touching moment from when the family found out. While Ali was playing with his niece, he casually said, “Will you play with your cousin brother or sister?” prompting a wave of surprise and joy from everyone present. “It was a very emotional moment,” she said.

    Addressing rumors circulating online, Saboor expressed frustration over questions raised by some social media users about whether her daughter was adopted. She strongly refuted the speculation, showing visible anger over the baseless assumptions.

    A celebrated actress known for her versatility, Saboor has delivered memorable performances in popular Pakistani dramas such as Fitrat, Parizaad, Mushkil and Sar-e-Rah. She also made a mark on the big screen with her role in the film Actor in Law.

  • Nepal PM resigns amid protests against social media ban, corruption

    Nepal PM resigns amid protests against social media ban, corruption

    Nepal Prime Minister (PM) KP Sharma Oli resigned on Tuesday, a day after one of the deadliest crackdowns on protesters in years, which left at least 19 dead.

    “I have resigned from the post of prime minister with effect from today… in order to take further steps towards a political solution and resolution of the problems,” he wrote in his resignation letter to the president.

    The protests began on Monday with young demonstrators demanding the government lifted its ban on social media platforms and take stronger action against corruption. Unrest continued despite authorities restoring access to apps, including Facebook, X and YouTube.

    Amnesty International reported that live ammunition was used against the protesters during Monday’s clashes, which claimed at least 19 lives and injured more than 100 people.

    Oli, 73, started his fourth term as the country’s premier last year after his Communist Party formed a coalition government with the centre-left Nepali Congress.

  • Pakistan Navy, assisted by China, discover vast gas reserves beneath sea

    Pakistan Navy, assisted by China, discover vast gas reserves beneath sea

    A senior ex-naval officer has told a private news channel that the Pakistan Navy, with the support of China, has discovered vast gas reserves deep beneath the sea in a joint survey initiated under the vision of the Chief of Naval Staff.

    The revelation came from Rear Admiral (retd) Fawad Amin Baig on the prestigious occasion of Pakistan Navy Day, observed on September 8 to honour the heroics of the sentinels of the country’s seas.

    Speaking on a private media outlet’s political show, Baig maintained, “The country’s waters are not only rich in minerals but also home to a treasure trove of marine resources that could change our economic outlook if tapped wisely.”

    “The Pakistan Navy played a central role in exploring these resources,” he added.

    Baig noted that a detailed survey carried out with Chinese assistance confirmed that the country’s seabed holds significant gas deposits, stressing that the next step must be to attract investors. 

    He said that with the right funding and technology, this hidden wealth could be put to use for Pakistan’s development.

    Pointing to the challenges, Baig stated, “Whenever Pakistan moves towards progress, hostile fifth-generation warfare tactics drive investors away.” However, he added that with the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) and the combined efforts of the military and political leadership, a new defence strategy is in place to give Pakistan a stronger economy.

    China and Pakistan are working closely to boost mining cooperation and promote the implementation of a pact on strengthening mining development and industrial cooperation, according to a joint statement from the two countries issued last year.

    China will strengthen cooperation with Pakistan in areas such as marine oil and gas resources and natural gas hydrates and will encourage Chinese firms to participate in the development of offshore oil and gas blocks in Pakistan, added the statement.

  • Omar Khalid Hussain becomes first Pakistani to win pro golf event in US

    Omar Khalid Hussain becomes first Pakistani to win pro golf event in US

    Pakistan’s rising golf star Omar Khalid Hussain made history on Sunday by becoming the first player from his country to win a professional golf tournament in the United States. 

    He clinched the Fendrich Open title with a brilliant performance.

    Competing in the US$18,700 event, Omar carded outstanding scores of 61 and 65 to finish with a 36-hole aggregate of 14-under 126 at the par-70 Fendrich Golf Course. He edged out Illinois professional Zach Williams by just one stroke to secure the trophy.

    Omar, the only Pakistani currently competing in NCAA Division 1 golf, delivered a stellar display with 14 birdies and an eagle across the two rounds.

    The young golfer had already made headlines in 2021 when he became the youngest winner of the National Amateur Golf Championship at just 16 years old.

  • Asia Cup 2025 trophy unveiled in Dubai

    Asia Cup 2025 trophy unveiled in Dubai

    In the presence of Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President Mohsin Naqvi, and the captains of all eight participating teams, the Asia Cup 2025 trophy was on Tuesday unveiled in Dubai.

    Captains of Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Oman, UAE and Hong Kong posed with the trophy and interacted with the media. They expressed confidence in their preparations and determination to perform strongly in the tournament.

    The 15th edition of the men’s Asia Cup will be played in the T20I format starting today, with eight teams divided into two groups. The top two sides from each group will qualify for the Super Four stage, and the top two from that round will meet in the final on September 28.

    Pakistan are a part of Group A alongside India, Oman and hosts UAE. The Men in Green open their campaign against Oman on Sept 12 in Dubai, face India on Sept 14 at the same venue, and round off the group stage against UAE on Sept 17.

    Group B includes Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Hong Kong.

    Asia Cup 2025 group stage schedule

    Sept 9: Afghanistan vs Hong Kong

    Sept 10: India vs UAE

    Sept 11: Bangladesh vs Hong Kong

    Sept 12: Pakistan vs Oman

    Sept 13: Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka

    Sept 14: Pakistan vs India

    Sept 15: UAE vs Oman

    Sept 15: Sri Lanka vs Hong Kong

    Sept 16: Bangladesh vs Afghanistan

    Sept 17: Pakistan vs UAE

    Sept 18: Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan

    Sept 19: India vs Oman


    Super Four stage

    Sept 20: B1 vs B2

    Sept 21: A1 vs A2

    Sept 23: A2 vs B1

    Sept 24: A1 vs B2

    Sept 25: A2 vs B2

    Sept 26: A1 vs B1

    Final: Sept 28

  • Meesha Shafi ‘honoured’ to share stage with Atif Aslam at sold-out Toronto concert

    Meesha Shafi ‘honoured’ to share stage with Atif Aslam at sold-out Toronto concert

    Pakistani-Canadian powerhouse Meesha Shafi had her ultimate dream-come-true moment as she shared the stage with none other than pop rock royalty, Atif Aslam, at a completely sold-out Scotiabank Arena and yes, it was a vibes-on scene.

    Sharing a series of pictures and high-voltage videos of her performance, Meesha wrote, “SOLD OUT @atifaslam @scotiabankarena last night and took me along for the ride.”

    “The first Pakistani artist to sell out the iconic venue while being the only name on the bill. A historic night for all of us. A proud moment to witness and an absolute honor to share the stage with this legend! [sic]” she added.

    Meesha also gave fans a backstage pass to the madness, filming Atif mid-performance while the crowd went absolutely wild — the kind of stadium-shaking roar you feel in your bones.

    Another video showed both the singers performing Punjabi banger Jugni.

    Shafi is a singer, actress, and model known for her work in film, music, and her activism for women’s rights. She launched her solo music career on Coke Studio in 2010, later releasing her debut album Khilney Ko in 2025. She has since toured internationally with her band.

    Meanwhile, Atif Aslam is in full beast mode on his North America Tour 2025. The tour includes dates throughout the late summer and fall of 2025, with stops in major cities such as Garland, Detroit, Chicago, Everett, Los Angeles and Oakland, and extends into Canada with a concert in Calgary.

  • Nepal lifts social media ban after protests leave 19 dead

    Nepal lifts social media ban after protests leave 19 dead

    Nepal has lifted a nationwide ban on social media after violent protests over the restrictions left 19 people dead and more than 100 injured.

    The government had blocked Facebook, X, YouTube among other platforms last week, citing violations of registration laws, fake accounts spreading hate speech, misinformation and fraud. The move sparked widespread anger with thousands of young protesters gathering outside the parliament in Kathmandu.

    Some demonstrators broke through barriers and attempted to enter the parliament building. Police used water cannons and rubber bullets besides resorting to baton-charge to disperse the crowd, causing dozens of casualties.

    Following the unrest, the government held an emergency meeting late Monday night and announced the decision to lift the ban.

    The prime minister expressed sorrow over the deaths, pledging financial support for the victims’ families. He also promised free medical treatment for the injured.