Author: News Desk

Here are The Current’s Top 5 OSTs of 2024

What makes a song unforgettable? A tune that stays in your head, lyrics that touch your heart and a voice that brings emotions to life. As 2024 ends, The Current brings you the top five Original Sound Track (OST) that made a lasting impact on us and gave life to some of the year’s best dramas.

From soulful melodies to powerful anthems, these OSTs stood out and won our hearts. Here are the top picks:

1. Chal Diye Tum Kahan (Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum)

This mesmerizing OST, sung, by Ahad Khan, Usama Ali, and Raffey Anwar, is a true masterpiece. The song reflects the emotional highs and lows of Sharjeena and Mustafa’s relationship, beautifully complementing the drama’s storyline. It remains one of the most-loved tracks of the year.

2. Tera Mera Hai Pyar Amar (Ishq Murshid)

Tera Mera Hai Pyar Amar brought us a romantic anthem that feels like a heartfelt confession, the song’s poetic lyrics and soulful composition captured the love and passion of the drama, making it an instant favorite for fans of romantic OSTs. It is sung by Ahmed Jahanzeb.

3. Kehnda Si Ranjha (Noor Jahan)

Yashal Shahid’s voice takes center stage in this beautiful OST with Kashif Ali Assadi’s lyrics and Saad Sultan’s masterful composition, this track celebrates the strength and spirit of the drama’s lead character, making it unforgettable.

4. Hum Na Baaz Ayenge (Tera Waada)

Sung by the legendary singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan with poetry by Alam Baig and music by Waqar Ali, this OST stands out for its power and intensity. It represents the resilience and determination of the drama’s characters, perfectly matching the gripping storyline and inspiring viewers.

5.YaaranTera Bina (Mann Jogi)

Sabeena Farooq and Sahir Ali Bagga’s duet is a standout in every way. Composed and written by Sahir Ali Bagga, the song reflects the emotional core of Mann Jogi. Its poetic depth and melody linger with listeners, making it one of the most cherished OSTs of 2024.

These songs shaped the year, bringing depth and emotion to their dramas. They became the voice of love, strength, and change across the country.

December 27, 2024
Katrina Kaif wishes Salman Khan on his birthday

It’s Bollywood superstar Salman Khan’s birthday today, and as wishes pour in from all around the world, a message from Bollywood actress and Salman’s former co-star, Katrina Kaif, has made headlines.

As per the details, Katrina took to Instagram stories and wrote: “Happiest birthday @beingsalmankhan. May all the wonderful things of life be with you this year and always.”

While Salman is yet to reveal his response to the wish from the popular actress he was once rumoured to date, earlier, friends and family gathered at midnight to celebrate the Bollywood star’s special day.

The party was hosted by his sister, Arpita Khan Sharma, and several of his friends from the industry attended it.

Salman will be seen next in “Sikandar”, a poster of which was released this week.

The teaser for the film was supposed to be launched on his birthday, but it was delayed due to the demise of former Indian prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh.

The teaser is now set to be unveiled on December 28.

December 27, 2024
‘925 terrorists killed in 59,775 operations’: Army presents 2024 counter-terror report card

Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General (DG) Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry on Friday revealed the military’s counter-terror report card for 2024, announcing that over 900 terrorists were killed in nearly 60,000 operations this year.

In his fifth media briefing of the year, the ISPR chief revealed that over 59,779 IBOs [intelligence-based operations] were carried out against terrorists during 2024. During these operations, 925 terrorists, including Khawarij, were killed and multiple others were apprehended.

“Pakistan has fought a long war against terrorism and is still fighting. It has rendered highly valued sacrifices in this fight,” Lt Gen Chaudhry said.

During various operations, he added, a significant quantity of weapons was recovered from terrorist hideouts, demonstrating the scale of the threat and the success of counter-terrorism efforts.

The ISPR chief also highlighted the tremendous cost being borne by the armed forces.

“Everyone must realise that our soldiers are paying the price for these decisions with their blood. Sixteen FC soldiers were martyred just six days ago. Does their blood hold no value?” he questioned while referring to the tragic incident that took place at a South Waziristan checkpost last Friday.

On Tehreek-i-Taliban (TTP) hideouts in Afghanistan, Lt Gen Chaudhry said terror roots were often traced back to the neighbouring country and Pakistan remained resolute to dismantle these terror networks without compromise.

“Networks operating from Afghan soil continue to target Pakistan, and we are resolute in eliminating them,” he said.

Responding to a journalist’s question about May 9 incidents, he stressed that it was not a case of the Pakistan Army but in fact that of “the people of Pakistan”.

Commenting on civilians’ trial in military courts and recent convictions, he said that the courts had received validation from the International Court of Justice (ICJ). “Military courts were established decades ago and in accordance with the Constitution and law.”

Lt Gen Chaudhry made it clear that anyone who was involved in incidents like May 9 in the future would face the same consequences. “The accused can appeal against their convictions to the Army Chief, in high courts or the Supreme Court,” he added.

Addressing widespread criticism against military trials, the ISPR chief said that those who were now criticising military courts had previously supported them. “They are the ones who previously supported military courts,” he said.

“The process will continue till the planners and executers of May 9 are brought to justice,” he concluded.

December 27, 2024
Women participation in tech, digital spaces ‘alarmingly low’: PTA

Women’s participation in technology and digital spaces, especially pertaining to economy, remains “alarmingly low” a report by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has revealed.

The report, originally compiled by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development and titled “Bridging the Digital Gender Divide”, revealed that approximately 327 million fewer women have access to smartphones and mobile internet globally, as compared to men.

In Pakistan, as access to technology and internet access increases with time, the issue of digital gender divide remains at a concerning level, the report revealed and added that the country ranked among the lowest in terms of gender parity and digital inclusion.

PTA’s report quoted three separate reports, including the Global Gender Gap Report 2024, the Mobile Connectivity Index 2023, and the Inclusive Internet Index. It highlighted “significant gaps in female education, mobile ownership and internet usage, underscoring the need to bridge the digital divide and promote equitable access to technology”.

The report asserted that key challenges faced by women were “limited digital literacy, restricted access to financial services (such as bank accounts), absence of computerized national identity cards (CNIC) for nearly 25 percent of adult women, high costs of devices and broadband, scarcity of local content, safety concerns, and patriarchal controls”.

In Pakistan, out of a total of 60.4 million users of Facebook, 77 percent are men while 24 percent are women. YouTube has 71.7 million users, of which only 28 percent are women. Meanwhile, TikTok has 54.4 million users, which include only 22 percent women.

Last but not the least, Instagram has 17.3 million users, of which 36 percent are women.

However, the PTA said, it has developed the Digital Gender Inclusion Strategy under the patronage of the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunications. The strategy is built with the help of Unesco Pakistan and would address “the barriers hindering women’s access to mobile”, setting “forth an accelerated action plan with an implementation roadmap, timelines, and measurable outcomes”.

Notably, the PTA also recently announced the laying down of a major undersea cable that is expected to enhance connection speeds in the country and address longstanding concerns of slow connection speeds and internet outages.

December 27, 2024
Sania Mirza joins viral reel trend with sister Anam

Having a sibling is like having a built-in best friend who occasionally doubles as your worst enemy—family perks, right?

Former Indian tennis star Sania Mirza and her sister Anam have once again joined a viral reel trend on social media, impressing their fans with a funny performance.

In the video, Sania highlights life’s challenges with a younger sister. She jokes, “I have 99 problems but when I’m with you, it’s 100,” teasing Anam. Anam shared the hilarious clip on social media, captioning it, “It’s both the best and worst thing, all at once.”

The video has gone viral, with over 3.1 million views on Instagram and numerous likes and comments from fans.

Anam Mirza, Sania’s younger sister, is a fashion entrepreneur married to cricketer Mohammed Asaduddin, son of former Indian cricket captain Mohammed Azharuddin.

Sania Mirza was previously married to Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Malik. In January, her family confirmed that she sought separation from Shoaib through khula (the right of a Muslim woman to divorce her husband) after his wedding to actor Sana Javed.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Anam Mirza (@anammirzaaa)

December 27, 2024
Barrister Daniyal is still Shaz Khan’s favourite character

When it comes to unforgettable roles, actor Shaz Khan’s portrayal of Barrister Daniyal in Yakeen Ka Safar still stands out as his all-time favorite.

Appearing as a guest on Gup Shab, the Dobara Phir Se actor opened up about his iconic character, revealing why it remains the highlight of his career.

A member from the audience asked, “My question is you have played a lawyer in one film, a pilot in another, and a fighter in an MMA. Do you get offered such roles, or do you prefer these kinds of roles?”

Shaz Khan replied, “No, why wouldn’t I prefer it? I am an actor, but the character of Barrister Danyial Ali Khan (Yakeen Ka Safar) the lawyer, was one of my favorite characters. If I worked in Hollywood my entire life, I wouldn’t get a role like that. That’s how good a role it was, such a Pakistani quality. I love it.”

Yakeen Ka Safar became a huge hit, with Barrister Danyial’s character touching the hearts of viewers. The drama has become a classic in Pakistani TV. Farhat Ishtiaq wrote the drama, and Shahzad Kashmiri directed it.

Shaz Khan, is now making a comeback with the film The Martial Artist, which is set to to be released next year in 2025.

Earlier, in an exclusive interview with The Current, actor and director Shaz Khan revealed how his role in ‘Parwaz Hai Junoon’ helped him fulfill his childhood dream of joining the army.

When we asked if he ever wanted to join the army, Shaz Khan replied, “I had a dream when I was a kid. But as I got older, I think my dream came true when I did ‘Parwaz hai Junoon’.”

Although he didn’t end up in the military like his grandparents and uncle, his journey as an actor brought him close to that dream.

But Shaz’s ambition doesn’t stop there. His upcoming film, ‘The Martial Artist’, where he serves as the actor, director, producer, and writer, is another testament to his drive and creativity. When asked how does he manage everything,

Khan replied, “It’s a difficult job. But I had to do it because we were shooting in the state of Pakistan, so I needed a vision, and the vision came about ten years ago. So, I had to do it because of COVID and other obstacles. Next time, I don’t think I’ll be able to do all of this.”

Shaz also discussed his intensive training for the film, saying, “I took four years of training. Because in the movie, we’re showing fight scenes like modern Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), just like it’s shown in the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship), the big promotions.”

December 27, 2024
VIDEO: Kohli confronts fans after being booed off the field

Indian cricketing star Virat Kohli on Friday confronted fans after they booed him off the field following his wicket on Day 2 of the Boxing Day Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

As per the details, Kohli was sent back to the pavilion after being dismissed for 36 runs. A viral video showed a group of Australian fans booing as the star batsman made his way to the dressing room, prompting him to come back and confront them.

However, security officials were seen intervening and calming him down before the situation could escalate.

It may be noted that Kohli has been under scrutiny from local media since after arriving in Melbourne. Some outlets have labelled him a “clown” after his altercation with Australian debutant Sam Konstas on Day 1 of the Test.

On Day 2, Kohli and Yashasvi Jaiswal put up a strong 102-run partnership for the third wicket, giving India hope after Australia posted a massive 474, led by Steve Smith’s impressive 140. Jaiswal displayed a mix of caution and aggression, while Kohli looked steady and watchful at the crease, raising expectations of a solid finish to the day.

However, a dramatic collapse unfolded later in the day after Jaiswal was run out for 82 in a poor mix-up. Kohli followed soon after as Scott Boland claimed his wicket, after which nightwatchman Akash Deep also returned to the pavilion. This took India from 151/2 to 159/5 in a matter of moments, handing the momentum back to Australia.

At stumps, India stood at 164/5 in 46 overs, trailing by 310 runs. Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja remained unbeaten on six and four, respectively. India now faces the daunting task of scoring 111 more runs on Saturday to avoid follow-on and recover from the late-hour collapse.

December 27, 2024
Exclusive pictures from Sheheryar Munawar, Maheen Siddiqui’s sangeet

Sheheryar Munawar, one of Pakistan’s most beloved actors, is starting a new chapter of his life with bride-to-be Maheen Siddiqui.

With the couple’s wedding festivities continuing, a star-studded sangeet was last night attended by Mahira Khan, Asim Raza, Momal Sheikh, Sanam Saeed and Ahad Raza Mir among others.

Viral clips from the event showed the stars dancing and enjoying themselves as the couple of the hour, Sheheryar and Maheen, also took to the stage.

The Current brings you exclusive visuals from last night’s event:

December 27, 2024
Salman Khan unveils Sikandar poster

Bollywood superstar Salman Khan’s fans eagerly awaiting the release of his upcoming film Sikandar will be glad to know that the first glimpse (poster) has already set “on social media on fire.”

With the film’s teaser originally scheduled to be released Salman’s 59 birthday, December 27, the makers have decided to push the release date up in honor of the late former Prime Minister , Manmohan Singh, who passed away on December 26 at the age of 92.

The Bodyguard actor shared the film’s poster on Instagram, sparking immense excitement among his fans. Salman Khan appears in a mysterious pose, wearing a black suit and holding a spear, with his face only partially visible. The intrigue around the image has left fans buzzing with anticipation. Along with the poster, Salman also shared a message that the teaser will be released the following day at 11:07 AM

However, as India observed a day of national mourning for Manmohan Singh, the Sikander teaser release has been delayed to December 28. The official Instagram account of Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment released a statement saying, “In light of the passing of our esteemed former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Ji, we regret to announce that the release of the Sikandar teaser has been postponed to 28th December 11:07 AM. Our thoughts are with the nation during this time of mourning. Thank you for understanding.”

Fans were initially looking forward to the teaser dropping on Salman’s birthday, but the new release date has only heightened the anticipation. The film also stars Rashmika Mandanna and marks the first collaboration between Salman Khan and Sajid Nadiadwala since their blockbuster film Kick.

Ealer, Bollywood superstar Salman Khan is gearing up for his new film ‘Sikandar’, rumoured to star a ‘Baahubali’ actor in the villain role.

Directed by AR Murugadoss, ‘Sikandar’- planned for release next year- will commence shooting in June.

Producer Chithra Laksmanan has announced that South Indian star Sathyaraj will play the villain.

“Sathyaraj, who played the role of Kattappa in ‘Baahubali’, will be up as villain against Khan in Sikandar,” she confirmed.

Rashmika Mandanna has been confirmed to play the female lead opposite Salman Khan.

She wrote her on Instagram story “You guys for a long time have been asking me for the next update and here it is… Surprise!! I am truly grateful and honoured to be a part of #Sikandar,”
After eight years away from the screen since Akira in 2016, AR Murugadoss is about to return to Hindi cinema.

December 27, 2024
‘Imran’s suffering hurts more than my son’s sentence,’ says Hassaan Niazi’s mother

A day after a military court sentenced her son to 10 years in prison, Noreen Khan Niazi has said that her brother and former prime minister Imran Khan’s suffering hurts her more than her son’s ordeal.

Noreen’s son and nephew of the incarcerated former premier, Hassaan Khan Niazi, was on Thursday awarded 10 years in jail for his involvement in the May 9 riots. According to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), a military court found Hassaan guilty of ransacking Lahore Corps Commander’s residence (Jinnah House).

“My son’s sentence hurts, but Imran Khan’s suffering hurts me even more,” Noreen said in an interview with ABN News following her son’s sentencing. Declaring it “injustice”, she alleged that the sentence “stemmed from personal hatred”.

“If the maximum sentence limit had been more than ten years, then they surely would have awarded that to Hassaan,” Noreen said. She, however, expressed hope that her son among others would be released after the convictions were challenged in the high court.

To a question about the dozens of pending cases against her brother, Noreen accused the judiciary of being compromised.

“The reason behind the frivolous cases on Imran Khan is to force him to leave the country,” she said, alleging that the government had kept her brother in Adiala Jail’s death-row cells.

To a question about the ongoing negotiations between the government and PTI, she said she only had faith in Allah.

Separately, Hassaan’s father Hafizullah Niazi appeared on Dunya News where he said the state had exploited a blatant lie to sentence his son.

He claimed that his son had told him all about how Jinnah House was already on fire when he reached there on May 9, 2023. “There was chaos everywhere and I just gave a speech there,” Niazi quoted his son as saying.

It is pertinent to note that Hassaan was not the only person who was on Thursday sentenced for his involvement in May 9 riots. According to the military’s media wing, military courts awarded punishments to at least 59 other, including former PTI lawmaker from Lahore, Mian Abad Farooq.

Earlier, military courts had on Saturday awarded sentences to at least 25 others for attacking state installations on May 9, 2023. Scores of PTI supporters and leaders remain undertrial in military as well as anti-terror courts for their involvement in violent protests that broke out following the former premier’s arrest last year.

December 27, 2024