Category: Entertainment

 Some artists create a legacy that lasts forever, and Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan stands out as one of them. His music, filled with deep spiritual power, continues to inspire people around the world.

 Indian singer and politician Hans Raj Hans recently unveiled a deep admiration for the late Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan.

Journalist Farid Qureshi asked Hans, “What was your experience with Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan sahib?”

  

Hans Raj Hans replied, “Khan Sahib was a unique entity, I consider him a darvesh not just a singer. Such individuals are born very rarely. When the Almighty showers his blessings upon a creation, legends like Nusrat sahib emerge. These people are not born every day, Nusrat sahib was a genius and incredibly humble.”

 

During the interview, Hans Raj Hans also spoke about his love for Lahore and its spiritual and cultural richness.

“Upon entering Lahore, the first place I visit is Data Sahib, followed by Nanaka Sahib, and then I head to Pakpattan. I believe that no country feels as good as this one when it comes to Tasawwuf (spiritualism) and art. And when it comes to food, there is no comparison. Whether it’s Phajja’s paye (trotters) or the halwa puris from Lakshmi Chowk, it’s unmatched. Though I’m a vegetarian, I was told that having meat brings real joy.” Here he started thinking and someone from the audience interjected, “Cocoo Den” and he continued, “Yes! That and Phajja Sahab made me such amazing vegetarian that I haven’t had that sort till date”, he said.

 

 

Hans Raj Hans went on to express his admiration for several legendary musicians from Pakistan, calling them irreplaceable.

 

“When it comes to music, Pakistan has produced legends like Ustad Niazat, Salamat Ali, Tufail Niazi, Fateh Ali, Amanat Ali, Shaukat Ali, and Attaullah Khan Esakhelvi—the list goes on. You’ve got everything in Pakistan,” he added.

In recognition of his exceptional contributions to music, the event organizers honored Hans Raj Hans at the House of Lords in London, England. Lord Rami Ranger hosted the event, organized by Samara Events UK, to celebrate his lasting impact on the music industry.

He has earned the prestigious Padma Shri civilian honor for his achievements. Hans has also released several ‘Punjabi-pop’ albums and collaborated with famous artists, including Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan in the movie Kachche Dhaage.

He has also lent his voice to several Bollywood movies, including Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety, Mausam, Patiala House, Black & White, Bend It Like Beckham, 23 March 1931: Shaheed, Nayak, Jodi No. 1, Monsoon Wedding, and Bichhoo.

Hollywood star Melissa Barrera recently paid tribute to Hajj AbuDiya Nabhan, who was tragically killed in Israeli fire in Gaza. Barrera honored him by wearing a “Soul of My Soul” T-shirt, which was also the last shirt Nabhan wore.

Barrera’s gesture comes amidst her ongoing support for various causes, including women’s rights. She has been vocal about her stance on social issues and continues to use her platform to raise awareness.

Sheikh Khaled Nabhan, also known as Abu Diaa, was famous for his popular phrase “Soul of my Soul,” which he uttered as he lovingly kissed goodbye his granddaughter Reem, who was killed by an Israeli airstrike.

Khaled was killed in an Israeli airstrike on the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza. He rose to prominence after a video showed him grieving his granddaughter, Reem, who was martyred alongside her brother Tariq, and describing the loss as losing the soul of his soul, i.e., his daughter’s daughter.

Since then, he had been seen helping the elderly, children, and animals of the besieged strip.

After his passing, social media is paying tribute to him, saying that his soul must have reunited with the soul of Reem, his beloved granddaughter.

Earlier, Melissa Barrera opened up about the darkest year of her life after facing a major career setback for taking a stand for Gaza. In a candid interview with The Independent, Barrera shared her journey of self-discovery following her firing from the Scream franchise.

A year ago, Barrera became known as a staunch advocate for Palestine. She actively called out Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his regime’s actions in Gaza.

“Gaza is currently being treated like a concentration camp,” she wrote in an Instagram story in October 2023. “This is genocide and ethnic cleansing.” In another post, she highlighted the struggle to find news on Palestinian suffering, criticizing Western media for showing a biased perspective.

Spyglass, the studio behind the latest Scream films, immediately dropped Barrera from the franchise. The company stated, “We have zero tolerance for antisemitism or the incitement of hate in any form, including false references to genocide, ethnic cleansing, Holocaust distortion or anything that flagrantly crosses the line into hate speech.”

Barrera responded by condemning both antisemitism and Islamophobia, stating, “I believe a group of people are NOT their leadership, and that no governing body should be above criticism.”

Reflecting on that time, Barrera described it as the darkest and hardest year of her life. For nearly 10 months after getting fired, substantial job offers were scarce, and she felt like her career might be over. “It was quiet for, like, 10 months. I was still getting offers for small things here and there — I’m not going to lie and say there was nothing — but the message was, like, ‘Oh, she probably doesn’t have work, she’ll say yes to anything,’” she explained.

Barrera used this time to reassess her identity beyond acting, realizing she was more than just an actor – she was a great sister, daughter, and friend.

Barrera expressed mixed emotions about her time in the Scream franchise. While she appreciated the career boost and loyal fans, the firing and backlash were tough to handle. Fans often bring up the controversy, making her feel like she failed at something. “They’re like, ‘What they did to you is so messed up, I’m so sorry that happened!’ And it’s something, I think, that’s never going to end. Because the franchise is never going to end,” she said.

Right after Barrera’s dismissal, Neve Campbell agreed to return for the forthcoming Scream VII, dividing the franchise’s fans. Some pledged to boycott subsequent installments out of respect for Barrera, while others remained loyal to Campbell.

Barrera is now finding her footing again in Hollywood. She is currently filming an espionage series for Peacock alongside Simu Liu, which she describes as a revitalizing experience. “It felt like I was invisible, and then all of a sudden, there was a switch that made me visible again,” she shared.

This new project has helped Barrera regain confidence. As she continues to rebuild, she is focused on aligning herself with collaborators who share her values and vision. “I was stuck in the dunes for a while, and now I feel like my feet are moving, I have an oxygen tank, and I’m, like … going up.”

Laapataa Ladies made waves as India’s official Oscar entry, but the beloved tale of lost brides won’t make it to the Academy Awards this year. The Kiran Rao venture failed to secure a spot in the 15-film shortlist for the Best International Feature category, as announced by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) on December 18, 2024.

The film tells the story of two brides who get hilariously mixed up and, in the process, discover their own strengths. Deepak marries Phool Kumari, and Jaya married Pradeep. Both couples board the same crowded train to their respective villages. The two newly wed brides accidentally switch places.

The cast includes Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, and Sparsh Shrivastav.

The final shortlist includes international films like Santosh (UK), Emilia Pérez (France), I’m Still Here (Brazil), and Universal Language (Canada).  Eighty five countries submitted films for Best International Feature category this year, making the competition tough.

While Laapataa Ladies won’t be continuing in the Oscar race, it has sparked important conversations about the lives of women in India. The film’s makers expressed gratitude for the support they’ve received and thanked Academy members and the FFI for their recognition.

Although India has had success in the Oscars’ International Feature category in the past, with Lagaan making it to the final five in 2002, no Indian film has reached the final stage since then. Oscar nominations will be announced on January 17, 2025, with the ceremony scheduled for March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.

Laapataa Ladies may not have made the Oscars shortlist, but its impact on social media and its portrayal of gender dynamics in India continue to resonate with audiences.

Laapataa Ladies was released on Netflix on March 1, 2024.

Earlier, director and writer Kiran Rao’s dream had come true as her film  ‘Laapataa Ladies’  has been chosen as India’s official entry for the Oscars Academy Award 2025 in the Best Foreign Film category.

On September 21, 2024, during an interview with Press Trust of India, 

Kiran Rao said, “My dream will be fulfilled… if it (Laapataa Ladies) will go to the Oscars. But it’s a process, and I am hoping it will be considered. I am sure the best film will qualify, whoever they (Film Federation India) choose in the scheme of things.”

“Our primary recognition comes from the audience’s response at the box office. If the audience and the nation appreciate our work, that would be the greatest accolade for us”, Kiran Rao added.

 On her Instagram account, an ecstatic Rao wrote, “I am deeply honored and beyond delighted that our film Laapataa Ladies has been chosen as India’s official entry to the Academy Awards. This recognition is a testament to the tireless work of my entire team, whose dedication and passion brought this story to life. Cinema has always been a powerful medium to connect hearts, transcend boundaries, and ignite meaningful conversations. I hope that this film will resonate with audiences across the world, just as it has in India. 

“I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the selection committee and to everyone who believed in this film. It is indeed a great privilege to be selected from among such amazing Indian films this year, who are equally worthy contenders for this honor.”

Produced by Sultana Siddiqui, Tan Man Neel O Neel is the third installment in Hum TV’s mini-drama series. 

In her own words, she has produced these three series because she wanted to address and highlight social issues with mob-mentality being the most important. 

Tan Man Neel O Neel is turning out to be a refreshing addition to prime-time Pakistani dramas that are on air these days. 

Episode 2 hit the right cord with its messaging and entertainment, balancing light-hearted and intense plot lines beautifully, making it highly watchable.

The latest episode delivers powerful messages and a compelling storytelling relatable to all generations, especially Gen-Z.

Moon- played by young actor Ali Ammar- put up a harrowing performance in a scene depicting him enduring sexual assault. The portrayal of a male victim of sexual assault, a topic rarely addressed, is handled with care by the director and actors. Moon’s struggle with anger, shame, and helplessness is heart-wrenching, particularly in the scene where he smashes a brick over his foot, aligning the reaction which most studies point out that the male victims of assault tend to be aggressive, post the incident. The moment was powerful, showing the physical manifestation of his inner turmoil. His relationship with Sonu, who stands by him despite not fully understanding his pain, highlights the importance of friendship and support which could help a survivor heal.

However, the most apt part was the whole execution of the scene where it clearly shows that assault is many times an outcome of the abuser making use of power to crush a victim, not always because of sexual attraction. Writer Mustafa Afridi, like all times, aced it fully in the writing which was just amplified by the people on set.

Rabi, played by Sehar Khan, sets an example for young girls with her smart decision to send a pin location and a picture of her driver to her mother in the guise of sending it to an uncle who is in the police. This act of caution not only depicts the situation of many young girls working and travelling on their own, adding a layer of realism to the character, but also sends a valuable message about staying safe yet independent for young girls.

Our heroine also continues to impress. She balances light-heartedness with thoughtful moments, advising Sonu to support his friend and not let him down. Her belief that confidence is more important than status sends a positive message of inner strength and courage. Rabi’s interactions are filled with wisdom and care, making her a standout character.

The episode also shines a light on other relationships. Rabi’s bond with her mother, played by Nadia Afgan, is honest, supportive, and joyful. This non-toxic, close-knit mother-daughter relationship is a delight to watch. Similarly, Sonu’s relationship with his mother is heartwarming, showing a progressive shift in storytelling where a dancer by profession raised a sensitive and good-natured son like him.

Another highlight is the evolving bond between Rabi and Sonu. Their relationship is developing into something substantial, going beyond the usual “girl meets boy” trope. They recognise and appreciate each other’s inner qualities, which makes their connection more relatable and engaging.

Performances across the board are top-notch. Saleem Mairaj is menacing right from the get-go, Ali Ammar’s portrayal of Moon makes your gut wrench, Sehar Khan brings depth to Rabi while making you smile and Shuja Asad’s Sonu is endearing and sweet as well. 
The supporting cast, including Nadia Afgan, Samiya Mumtaz, and others, contribute to the show’s richness.

Director Saife Hasan and writer Mustafa Afridi deserve applause for bringing this unique story to life. They tackle untold stories with a fresh perspective, making Tan Man Neel O Neel a must-watch.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, Bollywood superstar and filmmaker Aamir Khan considered quitting cinema for good after dominating the Indian film industry for more than four decades.

“It was in the middle of Covid and I was… thinking of a lot of things, and I suddenly felt that I had spent all of my adult life in this magical world of cinema,” Khan told AFP in London, draped in a heavy purple shawl and sporting a handlebar moustache.

He is not wrong, having helped shape Indian cinematic culture for years, becoming one of Bollywood’s most popular actors.

He has amassed a formidable oeuvre of Hindi-language films, including “Lagaan”, nominated for best foreign language film at the Oscars in 2002, as well as movies such as “3 Idiots”, “Dangal” and “Taare Zameen Par” (Like Stars on Earth).

Starting as a child actor in the 1970s and synonymous with Bollywood ever since, Khan realised he had “not really given the kind of bandwidth to my personal life that I would have liked to”.

“The realisation that I’ve lost all that time was something that I was finding difficult to come to terms with and I was going through a lot of guilt… My knee-jerk reaction to that was that I’ve had enough of film,” Khan said.

However, his family, including two children, eventually convinced him not to retire. “In my head, I quit. And then I didn’t,” said Khan.

Now, turning 60 in March, Khan, who lives in Mumbai, wants to “continue to act and produce for some time”.

He also wants to use his company Aamir Khan Productions “as a platform to encourage new talent… whose sensibility is close to mine. And (who) want to tell stories which affect me.”

– ‘Jumping genres’ –

One of those stories was “Lost Ladies”, a Hindi-language comedy about two young brides, which he co-produced with his ex-wife Kiran Rao and was recently promoting in London.

It was released this year, becoming India’s entry for the Oscars foreign film category.

Khan and Rao’s partnership on “Lost Ladies” began when Khan spotted its script at a screenwriting competition which he was judging, leading him to suggest that Rao direct the film.

“I like to react organically to material that comes my way. I feel that a film should begin with the writer, the thought,” Khan said.

“I like that the story should emerge from the writer and then, as a producer or as an actor,

 I come in at the right time, when I deserve to,” he added.

Many of his films touch on social issues in India, from women’s rights in rural areas and the sports industry, to the toxic culture in higher education and disability rights.

However, Khan has refused to be boxed into just one type of movie or role.

“I’m happy to jump genres and, experiment with different kinds of stories. I like to surprise myself and my audience.”

He is also not afraid to admit slip-ups, and has been vocal about his disappointment with his last performance in “Laal Singh Chaddha”.

The 2022 Indian adaptation of Tom Hanks’s “Forrest Gump” was a rare blip in the otherwise glowing critical reception of Khan’s work.

“I’m not really happy with my last performance, actually,” said Khan, adding that he thought he was too high-pitched in the role.

“I hope this one’s better,” he said of his upcoming film “Sitaare Zameen Par”, which he says is a “thematic” sequel to “Taare Zameen Par”, a drama about special needs education.

Despite winning dozens of Indian film awards as well as India’s third-highest civilian award, the Padma Bhushan, Khan still grounds his idea of success in the film itself.

“Filmmaking is very difficult… telling a story through so many art forms which come together to form cinema,” he said.

“So when I look at the film that we’ve made, and then I look at the script that we set out with, (I ask): has the film reached where we thought it would?”

“And if we’ve reached where we wanted to, and we’ve made the film that we set out to, then it’s a big relief.”

 Just a day after his lavish wedding, YouTuber Rajab Butt was arrested for receiving a lion’s cub as a gift and possessing an unlicensed gun.

 

The saga took a turn when Malik Zaman Naseeb, a politician and close friend of Rajab Butt, revealed that someone “very close” to him betrayed him, leading to the arrest.

Appearing as a guest on Rehman Tariq’s show, Malik Zaman shared surprising details of the incident.

“It was someone inside the house who knew about it, it was someone close, and we caught him. Everything happened so quickly. He was very close, but that didn’t matter.”

Malik Zaman stated that the betrayal was part of a carefully planned strategy.

“The plan was set for Sunday night, but Rajab didn’t show up at home that night. He arrived around 5 AM the next day, and by then, everyone had already left. The next day, they executed their plan. I’m amazed at how quick their response was. After Sunday, they acted fast and caught him,” he added.

Zaman described how the police arrived at Rajab’s home while he was sleeping.

 “The FIR was filed, and Rajab was taken from his house while he was sleeping. The police arrived and took him to the station. There was no real conversation, just a routine procedure. The wildlife department had arrived to check on the cub. The police took Rajab to the police station and found a gun in his room.”

 Malik Zaman also clarified that Rajab had the proper license for the rifle he had received as a wedding, saying, “As far as the situation with the gun and the rifle is concerned, Rajab was given a rifle as a gift at a wedding, and it had been licensed in his name. The license was applied for, and it was going to take about 25-30 days to process.”

 

Malik Zaman made it clear that Rajab Butt followed all legal procedures for the rifle, he also stressed that the arrest was the result of a betrayal by someone close to him. The situation has left many questions unanswered, and it’s unclear how this will affect Rajab’s career and personal life.

Earlier, YouTuber Rajab Butt has been detained for displaying weapons and keeping a lion cub.

According to details, the police, along with the Wildlife Department, raided Rajab’s house, and the Chung police took Rajab Butt into custody.

The police say that Rajab Butt was detained for displaying weapons and keeping a lion cub.

The wedding celebrations of the famous YouTuber Rajab Butt have been going on for the past several days.

Famous comedian Kapil Sharma is no stranger to controversy, but his recent comment about South Indian filmmaker Atlee Kumar have sparked an intense online debate. Did he cross the line, or was it all just a misunderstanding?

 The incident occurred during a segment of The Great Indian Kapil Sharma Show, where Atlee and the cast of his upcoming film Baby John appeared as guests. 

A clip from the show went viral, with viewers accusing Kapil of making racist comments. In the clip, Kapil asked Atlee, “You became such a big producer and director at such a young age. Has there ever been a time when you met a star for the first time, and they didn’t recognize you, asking, ‘Where is Atlee?’”

Kapil Sharma’s comment sparked an unexpected response from Atlee, who addressed the issue with grace. 

“I am thankful to AR Murugadoss sir because he believed in my script, not in how I looked or whether I was capable. He loved my narration. The world should learn to judge by heart, not appearances,” Atlee said. 

A user name Surajit on X (formerly Twitter) posted the clip from the segment and wrote, “Kapil Sharma subtly insults Atlee’s looks? Atlee responds like a boss: Don’t judge by appearance, judge by the heart.”

In response to the backlash, Kapil took to social media to clarify his position.  

He posted a message on X (formerly Twitter), asking, “Dear sir, can you pls explain me where n when I talked about looks in this video ? pls don’t spread hate on social media thank you. (guys watch n decide by yourself, don’t follow any body’s tweet like a sheep)”
Kapil’s reaction caused more debate. Some people defended him, saying he didn’t mean to hurt anyone, while others thought the joke was insensitive. The controversy continues as people wait for Atlee’s response. 

Earlier, Indian cricketer and cast member of The Kapil Sharma Show, Navjot Singh Sidhu, has made a unique condition for rejoining The Great Indian Kapil Show that now streams on Netflix.

In the episode of the show that aired on the digital streaming platform last Saturday, Sidhu appeared as a guest along with former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh.

While the show has now been shifted from TV as a new Netflix production, Sidhu’s return came after five years since he last appeared alongside other cast members and host Kapil Sharma on the hit comedy show.

“This day will be the most wonderful and memorable day of my life,” he said at the end of the episode, expressing his desire to return to the show.

“I want things to be like before when all of us were together like a beautiful bouquet. I hope we can come together again, but this time with Archana Singh as well,” Sidhu said, adding that he would come back on the condition that Archana continued to be a part of the show.