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Author: News Desk

  • Security guard’s daughter makes international cricket debut

    Security guard’s daughter makes international cricket debut

    Shehr Bano, the daughter of a security guard from Lodhran, Punjab, Pakistan, has become an international cricketer. She made her debut for the national team against Nepal in the Women’s Under-19 T20 Asia Cup in Malaysia.

    The 15-year-old is currently a seventh-grade student.

    Mohsin Kamal, the head coach of the national Under-19 team, presented the debut cap to Shehr Bano, a left-arm fast bowler. The team management and players congratulated her on her international debut and wished her the best for her career.

  • Saba Qamar, Ahsan Khan reunite for Pakistan’s next big hit

    Saba Qamar, Ahsan Khan reunite for Pakistan’s next big hit

    Fans are in for a treat as two of the most talented actors of the country- Ahsan Khan and Saba Qamar- reunite in the highly anticipated telefilm Mohabbat Yun Bhi Honi Thi, produced by Momina Duraid and directed by seasoned director Saife Hassan. 

    Written by Sarah Majeed, the telefilm promises an emotional rollercoaster that will engage viewers from start to finish.


     The teaser delivers an intriguing storyline about a married couple living in Dubai, along with their mother. Alongside Saba Qamar and Ahsan Khan, legendary actress Bushra Ansari joins the cast, further strengthening the star power of this highly anticipated project.


     
     Saba Qamar, fresh off her successes in drama serials Pagal Khaana and Serial Killer, and Ahsan Khan, whose performance in Sukoon left a lasting impact, will bring their best to this new project.


     Fans eagerly await their performance in the dramatic story of love, family and life in Dubai.

    Ahsan Khan and Saba Qamar had previously worked together in Fraud, Dastaan, and Pani Jaisa Pyar. 


     
    On December 15, HUM official Instagram posted the first look with the caption, “Love is about to blossom in the city of dreams! ✨ First look of Mohabbat Yun Bhi Honi Thi, featuring the incredible Saba Qamar, Ahsan Khan, and Bushra Ansari. Written by Saira Majeed and directed by Saife Hassan. Coming soon on HUM TV!

  • ‘Eyelash viper’, leaf-nosed bat among new species found in Mekong

    ‘Eyelash viper’, leaf-nosed bat among new species found in Mekong

    A viper with scales that look like eyelashes and a leaf-nosed bat are among dozens of new species identified in Southeast Asia’s Mekong region last year, WWF said Monday.

    The environmental group regularly publishes a list of newly discovered flora and fauna in the region to highlight the area’s biodiversity and the risks it faces.

    “The region is still a fertile ground for scientific exploration,” WWF said, warning that “many species are likely to go extinct before they are even discovered” because of mostly human-linked pressures, including deforestation and the wildlife trade.

    The Greater Mekong, which comprises Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam, is a well-known biodiversity hotspot, home to tigers, elephants and dolphins.

    In all, 234 new species of vertebrates and vascular plants — a category that excludes mosses, algae and fungus — were identified in the region in 2023.

    Some were located in remote natural habitats, while others were identified from specimens preserved in natural history museums and botanical gardens across the world.

    Among them is an Asian pit viper whose chocolate-brown and mint-green scales give it the appearance of eyelashes around its eyes, WWF said.

    Found in limestone formations in a Thai national park, it has been named the limestone eyelash pit viper as a result of its distinctive habitat and markings.

    Similarly striking is a bat that weighs in at between five and seven grams and features a distinctive leaf-shaped nose, used for echolocation. It was documented in Thailand, but is also found in Malaysia, WWF said.

    Around half of all the new species were found in Vietnam, with 106 endemic to the country, the highest number of any nation in the Greater Mekong region.

    Among them is a new species of gymnure — furry members of the hedgehog family — and a snake found at 2,600 metres on Mount Fansipan in northern Vietnam by two porters from the Hmong ethnic minority.

    Scientists are concerned that the forest where the snake was found is being degraded by the collection of fuelwood for the tourism industry, and by livestock grazing.

    “It may also be vulnerable to climate change, since species restricted to high elevations have little opportunity to move to higher ground as their habitat gets warmer,” the report warned.

  • Khurram Khan becomes first Pakistani to compete in Ironman World Championship

    Khurram Khan becomes first Pakistani to compete in Ironman World Championship

    Athlete Khurram Khan is the first Pakistani to have competed in the Ironman World Championship in Taupo, New Zealand.

    Khurram, who hails from Karachi, is the only Pakistani to raise the green crescent flag at the Ironman 70.3 World Championship.

    “It is an honour to hoist the Pakistani flag for the first time at the Ironman World Championship, and he will represent the country in future international competitions as well,” he said in a video message on his Instagram.

    A total of 6,000 athletes from 119 countries participated in the triathlon-style event, with the Pakistani athlete qualifying independently on his own expenses. The championship featured a 1.9-kilometre swim, a 90-kilometre bike ride, and a 21.1-kilometre run.

    Khurram completed the entire circuit in five hours, 32 minutes, and 52 seconds.

  • Winter sales that you don’t want to miss

    Winter sales that you don’t want to miss

    Winter season comes with a lot of downtime, tempting us to go on shopping sprees. 

    And this winter, many Pakistani brands are offering discounts on their wares, from clothing to shoes to accessories. 

    These are the sales that you want to make the most use of.

    Old school charm experts Gul Ahmed is offering three types of discounts: Flat 50 percent off, flat 40 percent off, and flat 30 percent off on all their old and new items, from bedsheets to shoes and, most importantly, on suits, both unstitched and ready-to-wear collections. 


    The brand has named it the Great Winter Sale. Pro Tip: The bedding packs are a great bargain. 

    Everybody’s favourite Khaadi’s winter sale is unique as, along with other products with different percentages of discounts, it is also offering an exclusively online sale for ready-to-wear clothes that goes up to 70 percent off on the embroidered collection.


    The other discount types on include  30 percent, 40 percent and 70 percent.


    Pro tip: Do check out the western clothes too.

    Sapphire, the darling of the minimalist fans, is offering discounts from 20 percent to 50 percent on various products, from  Sapphire Sillouhette Bedsheets and scarfs.


    Their special offers on clearance sale is not to be missed as well as it has ready-to-wear and pret collections in it. 


    Pro tip: The bed sheets are unique and flying out fast. 


    Modern maven Alkaram is offering two kinds of sales. One is the clearance sale of lawn and cambric pieces with flat 40 percent off on the products. The second is on their recently released winter collection. It has a set of vibrant khaddar clothes, which are available at decent discounted prices.


    Additionally, the sale by the name of Winter Fest has unstitched products for those who prefer.


    Pro Tip: The sizes go up to 16, so curvy girls need to check it out. 

    Limelight’s winter sale also has some season-specific articles on discounted prices like the woolen co-ord set, shawls, sweaters, coats and pants.


    Pro tip: Don’t forget to check out the scarves and shawls. 

    The highly desirable Lama is another high-end retail brand that offers clearance sales and good discounts on cardigans and coats. Pro tip: The shoes! 

    Winter is also known for weddings, and this is why various brands are offering sales while keeping in view the wedding season and Decemberistan. 


    Laam.pk, famous for its luxury and high-end products, is offering massive discounts on various brands it hosts. 


    Sana Safinaz-the go-to brand of different celebrities- at Laam.pk is offering upto 70 percent off.


    Similarly, the usually expensive Zara Shahjahan is offering a discount starting from 10 percent to upto 35 percent at Laam.

    Ali Xeeshan at Laam is offering discounted prices on multiple products, ranging from 20 percent to 60 percent.


    Other brands at Laam are also offering discounted prices on their festive collections.

     
    Asim Jofa is also one such luxury brand offering flat upto 50 percent off on its embroidered collections of chiffon, net, cambric, cotton and silk collections. 


    The year-end sale also has a number of articles for the wedding season ahead.

  • What we know about journalist Irshad Bhatti’s second marriage, wife

    What we know about journalist Irshad Bhatti’s second marriage, wife

    Senior journalist and analyst Irshad Bhatti has tied the knot to social media influencer and former actor Sama Raj in a private ceremony, it has emerged.

    As per the details, Bhatti tied the knot to Raj at least two weeks ago when the latter posted a video of their union and wedding photoshoot to her social media.

    “And We created you in pairs,” she wrote while sharing a video of their shoot that took place at Lahore’s Walled City Food Street near the Badshahi Mosque.

    “Loved each other for the sake of Allah. Married each other for the sake of Allah. May Allah keep us united in this world & hereafter in Jannah! ❤️. ALHMDULILLAH KASEERA ,” Raj added.

    While Bhatti has not yet officially announced the union, this is the senior analyst’s second marriage after the passing of his wife Iram Irshad Bhatti in 2022.

    The journalist had during a live show in June this year hinted at his plans to remarry.

    Meanwhile, congratulatory messages and best wishes are pouring in for the newly-wed couple. “I’m very happy for you both. I really like watching your videos. May Allah keep both of you happy,” wrote one netizen.

    “Stay happy always. May you prosper and stay protected from evil eye,” commented another social media user.

  • We prepared Nawaz Sharif’s platelet report at home: Faisal Vawda

    We prepared Nawaz Sharif’s platelet report at home: Faisal Vawda

    Senator Faisal Vawda has revealed another piece of inside information from the time of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) government, alleging that party members prepared the medical reports of Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) leader Nawaz Sharif.

    “We were sitting at home and preparing Nawaz Sharif’s platelet report,” the former PTI leader claimed, referring to the 2019 medical reports of the then-imprisoned Sharif, which stated that he was suffering from a “serious immune disorder” after which he had fled to England for treatment.

    A six-member medical board, headed by Services Hospital Principal Ayaz Mahmood, had reportedly diagnosed the cause of Sharif’s declining health as “acute immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), a bleeding disorder in which the immune system destroys platelets.”

    Vawda, however, has now questioned Nawaz’s medical reports. He also taunted former PML-N leader Muhammad Zubair, saying, “We did you a favour at that time. At least be thankful for that.”

    PML-N member Javed Latif contradicted Vawda’s claim, saying, “The first thing I need to clarify is that General Pasha, General Zaheer, General Raheel Sharif, General Faiz, and General Bajwa all conspired against Nawaz Sharif by propping up Saqib Nisar.

    “Secondly, Vawda stated that the PML-N government couldn’t stand against the establishment because it was already in bad condition. I want to point out that after the 8 February election results, we couldn’t get a simple majority. So who supported us? Now, after seeking our cooperation, they will taunt us for being in a bad condition?”

    Anchor Kamran Shahid asked former minister Latif whether Vawda’s claims about Nawaz’s medical reports were true, to which he replied, “It is completely a lie.”

    These claims, however, are not new. “This is not something that I’m saying for the first time; I’ve said it before in cabinet meetings as well,” he recalled.

    Vawda has also recently hinted at the “removal of one of the provincial governors very soon.”

    “A provincial governor will be in troubled waters soon, and his time is up,” he said on Aiteraz Hai on ARY News last Friday, without naming the person in question.

    “The governor in question has been selling his name, making money, and telling lies. Now, his turn has come, and he has to go home soon,” he added.

    Vawda further strongly criticised the country’s provincial government, saying, “Apart from Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, no CM is even capable of writing a paragraph in English.”

  • Fahad Mustafa celebrates wife Sana’s birthday in style

    Fahad Mustafa celebrates wife Sana’s birthday in style

    Fahad Mustafa, one of Pakistan’s biggest stars, has proved his incredible talent and popularity with the smash hit drama Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum. Recently honored by the UK Government, Fahad is enjoying a wave of success.

    The star’s house was filled with joy when Fahad Mustafa celebrated his beloved wife Sana’s birthday. The family always knows how to cherish special moments, and Sana often shares these happy times with their fans and followers.


    One of the highlights was the birthday cake, which featured a humorous picture of an old lady and had “42nd Birthday Celebration” written on it. Upon seeing the cake, Sana jokingly made a gesture as if she was strangling Fahad, adding a playful and fun touch to the celebration.


    Highlights from the Celebration:


    1.    Candlelight Ambiance: The dining table was beautifully lit with candles, creating a warm and intimate atmosphere.


    2.    Heartwarming Moments: Fahad and Sana shared sweet moments, with their children joining in the fun.


    3.    Family Fun: The couple and their kids enjoyed a delightful cake-cutting ceremony, making memories to last a lifetime.


    Here are some adorable pictures of Fahad Mustafa celebrating his wife Sana’s birthday with their children:

  • Famous Indian cricketer’s pension turns out to be less than that of Shahid Afridi

    Famous Indian cricketer’s pension turns out to be less than that of Shahid Afridi

    The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the richest cricket board in the world, pays less pension to a famous former cricketer than that of Pakistani former cricketer Shahid Afridi.

    Former Pakistan cricket team captain and renowned superstar Shahid Khan Afridi represented Pakistan in over 500 matches, achieving numerous successes in his cricketing career. Even after retiring from cricket, Shahid Afridi receives a decent pension from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

    On the other hand, former Indian cricketer Vinod Kambli, who played a major role in Indian cricket in the 1990s, receives a monthly pension of only Rs 30,000 (about 98 thousand Pakistani rupees) from BCCI. This amount is much less than Shahid Afridi’s pension. 

    This difference in pension scales raises questions about the attitude of both the cricket boards towards their retired players. The PCB has provided better facilities for its players after retirement, especially for players who have played cricket for a long period. On the other hand, the richest cricket board in world cricket, the BCCI, is not so generous. 

    Afridi’s high pension and Kambli’s low pension are proof of how the decisions of cricket boards affect different players and their lives after retirement. While Pakistan provides more benefits to its cricketers, retired players in India do not get much financial security.

    A few months back, a video showing Kambli went viral on social media in which he was seen staggering on a road, drunk, after which social media users requested the Indian government and the cricket board for financial help and treatment, but the Indian government and the BCCI did not listen to them. 

    Users also appealed to former player Sachin Tendulkar to come forward to help his long-time partner.

    The difference not only reflects the policies of the cricket boards but also highlights how players are treated in different countries.

     

    How does the PCB pay retired players?

    The PCB has divided its retired players into three different categories, based on which their pension amount is decided.

    Players who have played 10 or fewer Test matches get 142,000 Pakistani rupees (approximately 43,000 Indian rupees) per month.

    Players who have played 11 to 20 Test matches get 148,000 Pakistani rupees (approximately 45,000 Indian rupees) per month.

    Players who have played 21 or more Test matches get a monthly pension of 154,000 Pakistani rupees (approximately 47,000 Indian rupees).

    According to the formula set by the PCB for the pension of former players, Shahid Afridi represented Pakistan in 27 Test matches, as a result of which he receives a monthly pension of 154,000 Pakistani rupees (47,000 Indian rupees), which reflects his outstanding performance and successful career in cricket.

  • Bollywood stars react to legendary tabla player Zakir Hussain’s passing

    Bollywood stars react to legendary tabla player Zakir Hussain’s passing

    The world has lost a musical legend with the death of Indian tabla maestro Zakir Hussain who passed away at the age of 73 in the US, leaving behind a legacy that crosses multitudes of borders.  The Indian music community and fans worldwide have been deep affected by his death.

     Bollywood stars and music icons have expressed condolences on social media, mourning the loss of the maestro who brought the tabla to world stage. Many took to X (formerly Twitter) to share their tributes, highlighting Zakir Hussain’s unmatched contribution to music and his influence on generations of artists.

     Former Indian cricketer Sachin Tendular shared a moving tribute, saying “The curtains have fallen, but the beats will continue to echo in our hearts forever. If his hands delivered the rhythms, his smiling face and humble persona conveyed a melody – always respectful to everyone around him, putting them at ease. Rest in peace, Ustad Zakir Hussain ji. We were fortunate to witness your magic. Your music knew no boundaries, and your loss is deeply felt by music lovers worldwide.”

     Indian actor Riteish Deskmukh also paid tribute saying, “The irreparable loss of Zakir Hussain Sahab is a devastating blow to India and the global music community. Sir, Your music was a gift, a treasure that will continue to inspire and uplift generations to come. Your legacy lives on. May your soul rest in eternal glory, surrounded by the rhythms and melodies. Condolences to the family and loved ones of the legendary Zakir Hussain Sahab. ”

    Action star Akshay Kumar wrote, “Very pained to know about the sad demise of Ustad Zakir Hussain Saab. He was truly a treasure for our country’s musical heritage. Om Shanti.”

    “The maestro, Ustad Zakir Hussain passed away a few hours ago. Goodbye Ustadji. The man who made the tabla sexy, who brought an accompanying instrument to the forefront is gone. Deepest condolences to his family, fans and students around the globe,” director Hansal Mehta said.

    The king of compositions, AR. Rahman penned down: “Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un, Zakir Bhai was an inspiration, a towering personality who elevated the tabla to global acclaim . His loss is immeasurable for all of us. I regret not being able to collaborate with him as much as we did decades ago, though we had planned an album together . You shall be truly missed. May his family and his countless students worldwide find the strength to bear this immense loss .”

    “India has lost its cultural rhythm keeper Rest in peace maestro,” stated actor Randeep Hoda.

    Zakir Hussain’s passing has left a deep impact, but his music and influence will keep inspiring generations of musicians around the world. Rest in peace, Ustad Zakir Hussain.

    Tabla maestro Zakir Hussain passed away at the age of 73 on Sunday 15 December in US after a battle with heart disease.

    His manager Nirmala Bachani confirmed the news, stating that Hussain had been admitted to a hospital in San Francisco.

     Zakir Hussain, born on March 09, 1951 in Bombay, was the eldest son of the legendary tabla maestro, Ustad Allah Rakha.

    He followed his father’s path while also pushing the boundaries of Indian classical music, earning global recognition. His collaboration with renowned international artists helped bring the tabla to a wider audience, solidifying his place as a world music icon.

    Zakir’s skill earned him praise for his flawless technique and playful creativity, The New York Times, in a 2009 review of his Carnegie Hall performance, said his “fearsome technique” combined with artistic playfulness made his music both joyful and virtuosic.

     His lightning-fast fingers were compared to a hummingbird’s wings, producing a sound that was both detailed and full of energy.