Author: News Desk

  • Sana Javed faces backlash for remarks on Sarfaraz Ahmed in viral video

    Sana Javed faces backlash for remarks on Sarfaraz Ahmed in viral video

    Actress and model Sana Javed, known for her roles in Pyaray Afzal, Khaani, and Aye Musht-e-Khaak, has been in the news for the past year following her marriage to former cricketer Shoaib Malik. Currently, she appears as a regular guest on the private TV game show Jeeto Pakistan.

    However, since her marriage to Shoaib Malik, Sana Javed has been a target of criticism, and her appearances on Jeeto Pakistan have only added to the scrutiny.

    For the past few years, Sana Javed has been a part of the Ramadan special episodes of Jeeto Pakistan, and this year is no different.

    On the episode aired on March 17, former Pakistan cricket captain Sarfaraz Ahmed and Sana Javed appeared as guests on the show. 

    A video from the episode has been making rounds on social media, upsetting Sarfaraz Ahmed’s fans. The controversy stems from what many viewers perceived as Sana Javed’s disrespectful attitude towards the cricketer.

    Sarfaraz Ahmed and Sana Javed were seen participating in the show’s most popular segment, Dabba Kholo, in the viral clip.

    At one point, Sarfaraz tried to stop host Fahad Mustafa from opening a box, to which Sana Javed remarked, “What is this? Just open the box immediately!”

    Sarfaraz responded, “Listen, this game lasts for 45 minutes. We need to make it interesting for TV. The world is watching us. We can’t just keep opening boxes randomly. The last time I made the final decision, I received messages from all over the world.”

    However, Sana Javed replied, “It looks like someone wound you up, and now you won’t stop talking!”

    Sarfaraz then pointed out, “She didn’t even play properly where she was supposed to, and now she’s acting like this.”

    His remark was a subtle dig at a previous episode where Sana Javed lost to her husband, Shoaib Malik, during the game.

    In response, Sana Javed said, “Why does it bother you how I play with my husband? You just focus on your own game!”

    As soon as the clip went viral, Sarfaraz Ahmed’s fans took to social media to criticize Sana.

    One user wrote, “This woman has no manners. The way she is disrespecting Sarfaraz Ahmed is unacceptable.” Another commented, “Sana Javed should not be invited to the show anymore. Her rudeness is getting worse by the day.”

    Several users even tagged Sarfaraz Ahmed, advising him that as a national hero, he should not tolerate such behaviour on the show.

  • Arshad Nadeem’s former coach requests civil award recognition from government of Pakistan

    Arshad Nadeem’s former coach requests civil award recognition from government of Pakistan

    Olympic gold medallist Arshad Nadeem’s former coach, Fayyaz Bukhari, has formally requested the government of Pakistan to consider his name for a civil award in recognition of his services.

    According to reports, in a letter addressed to the authorities, Bukhari highlighted his contributions as a coach and expressed disappointment over the lack of official acknowledgement of his efforts.

    He detailed his coaching journey with Arshad Nadeem and urged the government to recognise his role in the success of Pakistani athletics.

    “I request the authorities to evaluate my contributions to Pakistan athletics and Arshad Nadeem’s achievements and consider my name for a civil award,” Bukhari stated in his letter.

    He further mentioned that he continues to serve as a javelin throw coach and has also trained Yasir Sultan for international competitions after Arshad Nadeem.

    Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem made history by securing a gold medal with a record-breaking 92.97-metre throw—the longest in Olympic history in the javelin throw event at the Paris Olympics. This remarkable feat ended Pakistan’s 40-year Olympic gold medal drought.

    Following this achievement, Fayyaz Bukhari stated that the star athlete possesses the ability to throw beyond 92.97 metres.

  • PepsiCo’s Roza Kushai Ad Sparks Nostalgia and Togetherness

    PepsiCo’s Roza Kushai Ad Sparks Nostalgia and Togetherness

    In Pakistan, the tradition of Roza Kushai marks a significant milestone: a child’s first fast during Ramadan. More than just a personal achievement, it’s a moment woven into the fabric of family and community, a celebration of faith, resilience, and togetherness.

    A new campaign is tapping into this cultural touchstone, sparking a wave of nostalgia and prompting reflection on how this cherished practice continues to evolve.

    Roza Kushai, traditionally a personal milestone for a child, involves family gatherings, special meals, and gifts to mark the accomplishment of fasting for the first time. A new ad by PepsiCo beautifully depicts these intimate moments of familial joy and support.

    However, the campaign also subtly highlights how Roza Kushai has expanded beyond the individual, often becoming a communal event. Mosques and community organizations now frequently host Roza Kushai celebrations, providing meals and support to children and families, particularly those in need. This shift reflects a broader trend towards collective celebration and shared responsibility in society.

    The ad showcases families coming together, children receiving gifts, and communities ensuring everyone is well-fed at Iftar. In a rapidly changing world, the campaign serves as a potent reminder of the enduring significance of Roza Kushai. The ad has sparked an important discussion about how families and communities continue to adapt and preserve this tradition. Social media is abuzz with individuals sharing personal Roza Kushai memories, underscoring the tradition’s deep roots in Pakistani culture.

    Ramadan campaigns in Pakistan typically experience high digital engagement, with brands often seeing a substantial increase in consumer interaction. Nostalgia-driven ads, like PepsiCo’s, strengthen brand recall and foster a deeper connection with audiences by tapping into shared cultural experiences.

    Ultimately, PepsiCo’s ad does more than celebrate a tradition; it acknowledges its evolution and its continued importance in fostering community and preserving cultural identity. The campaign encourages viewers to consider how Roza Kushai, whether celebrated within the family or as part of a larger community, remains an experience of love, joy, and togetherness.

    What’s your most cherished Roza Kushai memory?

  • Bahria Town in deep trouble as NAB seals Malik Riaz’s properties over ‘frauds worth billions’

    Bahria Town in deep trouble as NAB seals Malik Riaz’s properties over ‘frauds worth billions’

    The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on Monday claimed that it had sealed “numerous” commercial and residential properties of the owner of Bahria Town, Malik Riaz, across the country for “defrauding people of billions of rupees.”

    The accountability watchdog issued a press release on Monday, stating that it “once again informs the public that several cases of fraud and deception against Malik Riaz Ahmed, owner of Bahria Town, and others are currently under investigation.”

    In January 2025, following the conviction of former premier Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi in the 190 million pound case, NAB cautioned the public against investing in Bahria Town’s new real estate project in Dubai, emphasising that the government was reaching out to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to seek Riaz’s extradition through legal avenues.

    NAB had earlier also alleged that the property tycoon was developing housing societies under the name of Bahria Town “in a duplicitous manner” in other cities, including Peshawar and Jamshoro, by “illegally possessing/occupying land” and failing to procure the same mandatory regulatory permissions and legal documents.

    NAB on Monday further claimed that multiple cases had been filed against Riaz along with others in accountability courts in Karachi and Islamabad, and the courts have summoned them all.

    The accountability watchdog said, “In these cases, there are allegations and irrefutable evidence against Malik Riaz Ahmed and his associates for illegally occupying not only the government but also private land in the name of Bahria Town in Karachi, Takht Pari Rawalpindi, and New Murree, establishing housing societies without permission, and defrauding people of billions of rupees.”

    “In recent actions related to this, numerous commercial and residential properties of Bahria Town in Karachi, Lahore, Takht Pari, New Murree/Golf City, and Islamabad have been sealed, including multi-story commercial buildings.”

    Furthermore, claiming that hundreds of bank accounts and vehicles in Bahria Town have been frozen, the anti-corruption watchdog said, “NAB will continue its legal actions against Bahria Town Pakistan without any delay or pressure to protect the rights of the citizens of Pakistan fully.”

    “Malik Riaz Ahmed, who is currently residing in Dubai as a court absconder in the NCA [UK’s National Crime Agency] case, has recently launched a new project of construction of luxury apartments there,” it said.

    “Since NAB has also strong evidence of money laundering against Malik Riaz Ahmed and his associates, these funds have been sent to foreign countries through illegal means. Any funds transferred from Pakistan for this project will be considered money laundering, and legal action will be taken against the involved elements without discrimination,” it added.

  • PCB slams Indian media claims of Rs 2300 crore loss in Champions Trophy

    PCB slams Indian media claims of Rs 2300 crore loss in Champions Trophy

    The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has strongly refuted reports about Champions Trophy 2025 circulating in the Indian media, dismissing them as baseless, fabricated, and contrary to reality.

    According to a PCB spokesperson, the Indian media is spreading speculative and misleading stories regarding Pakistan cricket. The controversy stems from the reduction in players’ match fees in the National T20 tournament, which has been falsely linked to financial losses from hosting the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

    The PCB spokesperson clarified that hosting the Champions Trophy has not caused any financial setbacks for the board. “We will receive $6 million for hosting the tournament, while the final revenue from gate money will be determined after an audit in the coming months. Additionally, the costs for hotels, flights, prize money, and other expenses will be covered by the ICC,” the spokesperson explained.

    An Indian media report claimed that the PCB suffered a massive financial loss of 2300 crore (approximately $85 million) while hosting the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The report further alleged that, as a result, the PCB was forced to cut players’ match fees and revoke five-star hotel accommodations.

    The PCB has categorically denied these claims, stating that they are part of a propaganda campaign to tarnish Pakistan cricket’s image.

  • Messi ruled out of Argentina squad for Uruguay, Brazil clashes

    Messi ruled out of Argentina squad for Uruguay, Brazil clashes

    Argentina captain Lionel Messi has been left out of the squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil due to an injury.

    The 37-year-old forward, who plays for Inter Miami, sustained a low-grade adductor muscle injury during his team’s 2-1 victory on Sunday.

    Inter Miami confirmed the injury through a statement but did not provide a specific timeline for his return. “His clinical progress and response to treatment will determine his availability for competition,” the club stated.

    Messi also missed three games for Inter Miami earlier this month but made a comeback with a goal off the bench in a CONCACAF Champions Cup match.

    As the reigning world champions, Argentina is in a strong position to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. They currently lead the 10-team South American qualifying group by five points ahead of their clash against Uruguay in Montevideo.

    With six teams earning direct qualification to the tournament in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, Argentina can confirm their spot with positive results in the upcoming matches. Messi, the team’s top scorer in the qualifiers, leads the competition with six goals.

    Apart from Messi, Argentina will also be without key players Paulo Dybala and Gonzalo Montiel, who are both sidelined due to injuries. Meanwhile, Brazil has suffered a major setback, with Neymar ruled out due to a thigh injury. The 33-year-old was expected to return to the national team but will now miss the qualifiers. Brazil currently sits in fifth place, trailing Argentina by seven points.


    Argentina Squad for World Cup Qualifiers

    Goalkeepers:


    Emiliano Martinez (Aston Villa, ENG), Geronimo Rulli (Marseille, FRA), Walter Benitez (PSV Eindhoven, NED).

    Defenders:


    Nahuel Molina (Atletico Madrid, ESP), Leonardo Balerdi (Marseille, FRA), Cristian Romero (Tottenham, ENG), Nicolas Otamendi (Benfica, POR), Nicolas Tagliafico (Lyon, FRA), Facundo Medina (Lens, FRA), Juan Foyth (Villarreal, ESP), German Pezzella (River Plate).

    Midfielders:


    Leandro Paredes (Roma, ITA), Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool, ENG), Rodrigo De Paul (Atletico Madrid, ESP), Exequiel Palacios (Bayer Leverkusen, GER), Maximo Perrone (Como, ITA), Enzo Fernandez (Chelsea, ENG), Giuliano Simeone (Atletico Madrid, ESP), Benjamin Dominguez (Bologna, ITA), Thiago Almada (Lyon, FRA).

    Forwards:


    Lautaro Martinez (Inter Milan, ITA), Julian Alvarez (Atletico Madrid, ESP), Angel Correa (Atletico Madrid, ESP), Nicolas Paz (Como, ITA), Santiago Castro (Bologna, ITA), Nicolas Gonzalez (Juventus, ITA).

    Argentina will face Uruguay on Friday before taking on Brazil in a high-stakes clash on March 25.

  • Model Aseela exposes photographer Kamil Javaid with shocking evidence of harassment

    Model Aseela exposes photographer Kamil Javaid with shocking evidence of harassment

    Photographer Kamil Javaid has been accused of inappropriate behavior and harassment after model Aseela publicly shared disturbing WhatsApp messages and a call recording. The revelations have sparked outrage on Instagram, with many demanding accountability in the fashion industry.

    Aseela exposed the conversation on Instagram, revealing how Kamil initially approached her for a photoshoot in Skardu for a well-known brand. While the discussion began professionally, it soon took an unsettling turn when he insisted on a personal “meetup” before finalizing the project.

    Kamil pushed for a meeting, asking, “Meetup kab ho sakta (When can we meetup?)”

    When Aseela questioned the necessity of meeting in person, he vaguely responded: “If you easy then we meet otherwise no issue.”

    Growing suspicious, Aleesa pressed further: “Why should I meet you?”

    Kamil’s reply was cryptic: “Aap bhi jaanti hain sab.”

    The situation escalated when Aseela recorded their phone call. In the audio, Kamil was heard suggesting to meet her at a hotel, struggling to justify why it was necessary. His nervous hesitation raised serious red flags. He further stated: “Aap meri reference se hain, is liye maine bhi toh aapko kaam dilwaya hai… mujhe bhi toh kuch milna chahiye (You were my reference. I got you work. I should also get something.)”

    Aseela took to Instagram to expose the conversation, writing: “I feel like everybody has to see this face of the industry as well! I’m not saying all of them are the same, but a few people are destroying the image of this profession!”

     
    She also tagged major fashion brands like Nishat Linen, Khaadi, and Maria B., urging them to take responsibility for those misusing their names. “The fact that I was laughing is because they think just because I dress up boldly, I will be the easiest catch for them, and that is completely wrong. CHARACTER HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH WHAT YOU WEAR! Which men fail to understand daily!”

    Industry Reacts: Calls for Accountability

    Comedian Tamkenat slammed the industry’s misogyny, stating: “Men think that just because a woman wears ‘western’ clothes for a shoot, she must be easy. Brands like @khaadi @nishatlinen must address this issue as this predator is using their name to exploit young women.”


    Other women came forward with similar experiences.

     Model Dr. Nazam Baloch shared: m”My modeling career lasted six months because of men like him. A photographer working with Outfitters asked me to create a new portfolio, then told me to remove my shirt. When I refused, he took off his pants. I ran away and quit modeling.”

    Social media exploded with reactions: “The way he kept clearing his throat—felt like shoving a danda down his throat! Thank you for exposing him. He must never work again!”

    “WHAT?! This is disgusting! Jahil aadmi.”

    “Brave and powerful! More power to you!”

    “So glad women are speaking up! Hold them accountable!”

    Following the backlash, Aleesa clarified that while Kamil Javaid may not be an official Nishat representative, he has worked with multiple brands—raising urgent questions about the vetting processes.

    “Even if he’s not their main photographer, he must be held accountable. Brands need to be extremely careful when selecting their teams!”

    The scandal has reignited conversation about the exploitation of women in the fashion industry, with growing demands for stricter policies to prevent predators from using their influence unchecked.

    Aleesa’s bold move has exposed a disturbing reality, pushing the industry to take a firm stand against harassment and ensure a safer, more ethical environment for models and artists.

  • ‘I request all social media platforms not to use my old photos,’ says Zarnish Khan

    ‘I request all social media platforms not to use my old photos,’ says Zarnish Khan

    Former Pakistani actress Zarnish Khan has urged social media platforms to stop using her old photos, emphasising her decision to embrace a more modest lifestyle.

    Taking to her Instagram Story, she wrote, “I request all social media platforms to please not use my old photos.”

    She further explained, “I now wear a veil, so I can only request that my old photos not be used.”

    In  another appeal, stating, “Whoever else wants to write about me, just don’t use my old photos and videos.”

    Zarnish also expressed regret over a past statement and apologised to Alizeh Shah, writing, “I regret my stupid comment.”

    However, Alizeh refused to accept the apology, responding, “I do not forgive you. What have I ever done to you? I never behaved rudely toward you. You weren’t even being paid to talk about me, yet you chose to.”

    Zarnish left the entertainment industry in 2023 to follow Islamic teachings after performing Umrah. Shortly after, she deleted all her old photos and videos from social media as part of her commitment to her new way of life.

    Her recent appeal highlights her dedication to maintaining her privacy and aligning her public image with her religious beliefs.

  • Kim Soo-hyun cut from Good Day amid backlash over Kim Sae-ron controversy

    Kim Soo-hyun cut from Good Day amid backlash over Kim Sae-ron controversy

    South Korean actor Kim Soo-hyun has been removed from the variety show Good Day following severe audience disapproval concerning his connection with actress Kim Sae-ron, who has been embroiled in controversy. This decision was made in response to escalating criticism, leading the producers to cut Soo-hyun’s segments from upcoming episodes.

    The dispute arises from Kim Sae-ron’s previous legal troubles, particularly a DUI case that harmed her reputation; this incident occurred in 2022 when she faced charges for drunk driving, and as a result of the negative impact on her image, she was cut from the show Blood Hounds. Tragically, in February 2025, exactly on Kim Soo-hyun’s birthday, she was found dead at her home.

    Although Soo-hyun is not directly involved, his association with Sae-ron triggered a negative reaction from viewers. The backlash intensified after trailers of the show featuring both actors were released, resulting in demands for Soo-hyun’s removal.

    The production team, consequently, chose to mitigate potential backlash by excluding Soo-hyun’s footage from the final airings. Initially, the actor had recorded several segments for Good Day, but after assessing public opinion, the creators decided on significant edits. The broadcasting network confirmed this decision, stating their intention to heed audience feedback and maintain a positive reception for the show.

    While this move has sparked mixed reactions, some fans argue that Soo-hyun is being unfairly penalised for a scandal he was not involved in. Conversely, others believe the decision was justified considering the sensitivity surrounding Kim Sae-ron’s past actions and the need for networks to be mindful of public sentiment.

    Kim Soo-hyun, a leading figure in South Korean entertainment, has enjoyed a largely controversy-free career, starring in well-received dramas such as It’s Okay to Not Be Okay, My Love from the Star, and Queen of Tears. His removal from Good Day raises concerns about the extent to which public opinion can influence entertainment decisions, even for those uninvolved in scandals.

    This incident highlights the increasing scrutiny faced by South Korean celebrities, where any association—intentional or not—can lead to significant career consequences. For now, Good Day will air without Kim Soo-hyun’s segments, and the network hopes these changes will help ease the ongoing controversy.

    As the situation unfolds, fans remain divided on whether this decision was justified or an excessive reaction to public sentiment. Meanwhile, Kim Soo-hyun has yet to release an official statement regarding his removal from the show.

  • Javed Akhtar all praise for Pakistani singer Moazzam Ali Khan

    Javed Akhtar all praise for Pakistani singer Moazzam Ali Khan

    Renowned Indian poet and lyricist Javed Akhtar has conveyed his admiration for Pakistani vocalist Moazzam Ali Khan, praising his exceptional singing abilities. Akhtar, celebrated for his literary talent and deep musical connection, was genuinely touched by Moazzam’s artistry and even expressed a wish to collaborate with him.

    Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Akhtar shared his thoughts, “Listening to Moazzam Ali Khan was a delightful experience, and I must say his voice is genuinely enchanting. I would be grateful if he could sing a few songs for us. His talent is remarkable.” His tweet quickly gained popularity, with admirers from both India and Pakistan commending his appreciation for cross-border creativity. 

    Moazzam Ali Khan, coming from a family of classical musicians, has received acclaim for his skill in merging traditional and modern styles effortlessly. His command of classical raags and qawwalis has brought him recognition beyond the borders of Pakistan. In response to Akhtar’s compliments, Moazzam modestly remarked, “It’s a privilege to receive such kind words from a legendary figure like Javed Akhtar. Music transcends boundaries, and I am sincerely thankful for his acknowledgment.” 

    The celebrated lyricist’s praise comes at a time when cultural exchanges between India and Pakistan are constrained due to political challenges. Nonetheless, his open admiration for Moazzam Ali Khan highlights the unifying power of art and music, bridging divides and cultivating mutual respect.
     

    Although there has been no official announcement regarding a formal collaboration, Akhtar’s comments have undoubtedly generated interest and excitement among music enthusiasts. Fans of both artists have expressed their enthusiasm, hoping that this recognition could pave the way for significant artistic projects in the future. Moazzam Ali Khan, grateful for the praise, has not yet responded to the possibility of collaborating with Akhtar but remains appreciative of the recognition.
     

    This is not the first instance of Javed Akhtar commending Pakistani artists. Throughout the years, he has openly acknowledged the work of musicians and poets from across the border, reinforcing his belief in the shared cultural heritage of both nations. His latest remarks about Moazzam Ali Khan further emphasize his commitment to the importance of artistic appreciation, regardless of geographical limits.
     

    As the music industry continues to evolve, collaborations like these hold the promise of creating timeless melodies that resonate with audiences across South Asia and beyond. Whether this admiration leads to a professional collaboration remains uncertain, but one fact is clear—Moazzam Ali Khan’s talent has garnered a new admirer in the esteemed Javed Akhtar.