Category: Entertainment

  • Friendship, faith and fear: Case No. 9’s blasphemy arc is Pakistan’s darkest truth on screen

    Friendship, faith and fear: Case No. 9’s blasphemy arc is Pakistan’s darkest truth on screen

    It’s not just the raw reality that the drama Case No. 9 is drenched in but the way that it’s expressed that has viewers hooked. You would think that rape was enough, but no, the drama also touches about the sensitive issue of blasphemy and the terror of fake social media propaganda.


    If you’ve seen the drama, you have wondered why the rapist Kamran’s (Faysal Quraishi) best friend and business partner’s name is Rohit (Junaid Khan). At first, it was thought that maybe it was a way to include a minority in the story but in Episode 11, we find out that’s not the case.


    Rohit reveals to his wife Manisha (Naveen Waqar) that he feels he has a moral obligation to support Kamran, despite knowing that he raped Seher (Saba Qamar) because when they were in college together Kamran had supported him when an angry mob came to the university to attack Rohit for alleged blasphemy. Kamran then stands up against the mob for his friend, convincing them that Rohit had done no such thing (which he had not) and that the people spreading the rumour were doing it for personal reasons. The crowd listens and Rohit owes Kamran his life. At least that’s how Rohit feels.


    At first, it was a bit strange, an expectation that the drama was heading in a different, heavy direction but no. Writer Shahzeb Khanzada very smartly touched the issue, let it resonate with the audience and then moved on. 


    Social media was also all praise for the way the sensitive issue was portrayed. 


    SOCIAL MEDIA TRAUMA


    Episode 12 was also very significant when it comes to what victims feel when propaganda is spread about them on social media. Kamran convinces his employee to hire a social media propaganda team to spread Sehar’s photo on social media and that she was after him and his money. The irony is not lost when it is hashtag ‘#JusticeforKamran’ that starts to trend on social media, which is a popular one when someone is standing up for a cause – not realizing it might be misused as well. The rape victim must be protected, says Sehar to her lawyer Beenish (Amina Shaikh) who agrees and says they would take it up with relevant authorities. But the damage is also done when people all around Sehar and her family realize what is happening with the family. The way the drama shows a team being hired to spread misinformation, from seemingly real accounts, makes you think twice about what you might believe on social media and it’s clear that it was done so you would feel that way. 


    THE WOMEN


    It is the women in the drama that are the real stars. They support each other and stand for each other, strong and able to handle the trauma that keeps hitting them. 


    Beenish and Manisha stand by Sehar like mountains, and the way Manisha does so without even flinching, despite being married to Rohit, is heartwarming. Even Kamran’s wife, Kiran (Rushna Khan) is such a complex character with Rushna truly doing her justice. Kiran is stuck in a web of having to live and trust her child’s father but knowing that he has done ‘something’ wrong and watching Rushna act out the different feelings that Kiran is constantly experiencing really makes you feel for women who are married to manipulative men. 


    The drama is on a constant high with no low in sight and despite expecting that Sehar will win in the end as good always does, it still keeps you on the edge of your seat because in reality, you never really know if truth in Pakistan will prevail.

  • ‘Easier to get married before 25,’ suggests actor Usama Khan

    ‘Easier to get married before 25,’ suggests actor Usama Khan

    Actor Usama Khan recently appeared on the popular talk show Hasna Mana Hai, where he shared candid insights about his personal life. During the episode, host Tabish Hashmi asked him, “When will you get married?” Usama responded by saying that he hasn’t found the right girl yet.

    He also shared that he is ready for marriage and has informed his family about his intentions. However, since he hasn’t met the right partner yet, wedding plans are on hold.

     Usama emphasized an important point, saying, “I think if a person gets married before 25, it’s easier, but it becomes more difficult later.” 

    The candid conversation gave fans a glimpse into the actor’s personal life beyond his on-screen roles. Known for his versatile performances and charm, Usama’s honesty and thoughtful approach toward relationships resonated with his audience. 

    The discussion highlighted the importance of waiting for the right partner while being mindful of timing.

  • Asim Azhar said Khuda Hafiz… but maybe not to Hania Aamir?

    Asim Azhar said Khuda Hafiz… but maybe not to Hania Aamir?

    Singer Asim Azhar has taken over social media, and this time, fans think their long-held suspicions might just be true.

    After mysteriously deleting all his Instagram posts and leaving behind only a cryptic “Khuda Hafiz,” Asim finally broke his silence with a dramatic comeback video. The clip announced his much-anticipated solo album “Asim Ali”, set to release on November 24, but that was not what got fans talking.

    The real shocker came when Hania Aamir appeared in the video. The ex-couple, who had parted ways years ago, were seen together, sparking an internet meltdown and instant rumours of a possible reunion.

    In his post, Asim wrote, “On my 29th birthday, I want to introduce you to someone special. Until now, you’ve known Asim Azhar, but now it’s time to meet Asim Ali, my truest and most authentic self.” He added that “Asim Ali”, his first independent album, will finally be “yours soon.”

    But fans were not exactly focused on the album name or even the release date. All eyes went straight to the fifth track on the list, “Lost and Found,” which featured none other than Hania Aamir. 

    The comments section quickly exploded.

    One user wrote, “Are we thinking what you’re thinking?” while another said, “Ab maza aye ga na beeru!” A third dropped fire emojis, writing, “Excited ❤️.” Someone else simply declared, “Calm before the storm ⚡️.”

    Others were just relieved to see Asim back online. “Finally you posted,” one fan commented, while another screamed, “CANNOT WAIT!” followed by an all-caps “OH MY GOD.”

    It seems Asim did not just announce an album, he also dropped a mix of nostalgia, curiosity, and maybe even a hint of a love story sequel that no one saw coming.

  • Whose side is Mawra on in Jama Taqseem?

    Whose side is Mawra on in Jama Taqseem?

    Actor Mawra Hocane, who is currently starring in the hit drama Jama Taqseem, has shared details about her role, wedding and whose side she was on in the drama.

    Appearing on a podcast, Mawra was asked if she was on Team Laila, to which she said “more on Team Laila’s mom”, explaining she loved how blunt the mother was in the drama. 

    In the joint family drama, which is taking the drama world by storm, Laila’s mother, played by Tazeen Hussain, is a very blunt voice of reason. She warns Laila, played by Mawra, before she marries Qais, played by Talha Chahour, that she needed protection from her in-laws and worried that Laila, the only child of a wealthy couple, would not be able to adjust in a joint family set up like that of Qais.

    Despite being against the marriage, she agrees for her child’s happiness and even though at times you feel that Laila’s mom has not been there for her much, as a working woman, it’s clear that they have a very loving, supportive relationship. We also see her mother’s vulnerability when she retires from her decades-old teaching career and how Laila is there for her. 

    During the podcast, Mawra went on to explain how the strength that Laila’s mother shows in the drama is what allows Laila to take a stand for herself, adding that she gives credit about her life and her career to her own mother, who was brave during an era when it was very difficult to be brave.

    “It’s our legacy to take this bravery and resilience forward and that’s what the drama also shows,” Mawra explained.

    During the conversation, Mawra also talked about her wedding, her movies, dramas and working in the industry for the younger generation.

  • Falak Shabir gives Pakistan Idol permission to use his songs

    Falak Shabir gives Pakistan Idol permission to use his songs

    Singer Falak Shabir has expressed support for the music reality show Pakistan Idol. The show has garnered plenty of praise along with controversies about some singers not allowing contestants to use their songs. 

    Taking to Instagram, Falak announced that all Pakistan Idol contestants are free to perform any of his songs during the competition.

    “I give Pakistan Idol permission to use all of my songs so that rising singers can have a platform to shine and represent Pakistan globally,” he wrote. “I fully support the judges and all the talented participants of Pakistan Idol.”

    His statement came shortly after veteran singer Sajjad Ali revealed that participants are not allowed to perform his songs due to a copyright dispute with the show’s organizers.

    During a press conference in Canada, Sajjad Ali said that the Pakistan Idol team had approached him to secure the rights to his music, but both parties failed to agree on financial terms. He noted that the limited selection of licensed tracks has affected the variety of performances, as “every contestant wanted to sing our songs,” and those who did “would receive significant admiration and possibly win the competition.”

    According to Pakistan’s Copyright Ordinance of 1962, song rights are owned by the creator unless officially licensed or transferred. Any public performance or adaptation without permission is considered a legal infringement.

    Sajjad Ali mentioned that most of the show’s licensed catalog comes from EMI Records, Pakistan’s oldest record label, which holds rights to the works of legendary artists like Noor Jehan, Mehdi Hassan, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Strings, and Vital Signs.

    The disagreement has prevented contestants from performing Sajjad Ali’s popular songs but has also reignited debate over copyright ownership, artist rights, and creative opportunities in Pakistan’s music industry.

  • If I woke up as Humayun Saeed, I’ll go to the gym: Hamza Ali Abbasi

    If I woke up as Humayun Saeed, I’ll go to the gym: Hamza Ali Abbasi

    Actor Hamza Ali Abbasi recently showed his humorous side in a podcast segment where he was asked what he would do if he woke up as different Pakistani celebrities. 

    From teasing Humayun Saeed about his fitness routine to praising Fawad Khan’s charm and Mahira Khan’s acting, Hamza’s answers had fans smiling throughout.

    When the host asked what he would do if he woke up as Humayun Saeed, Hamza instantly replied, “I’d go to the gym first thing. Because I know his biggest issue is that he can’t stay consistent with the gym.” 

    Moving on to Fawad Khan, Hamza admitted there wasn’t much he would change if he woke up as him. “If I were Fawad, what would I do? Actually, I wouldn’t do anything. Fawad doesn’t need to do much, just waking up as he is, that’s fine,” he said with a smile. “I’d just keep looking at myself; he’s fine in that regard. His body’s fine too.”

    The actor also shared what he would do if he woke up as singer Atif Aslam. “I’d start by singing something in the morning so that it benefits me and also the birds chirping outside could feel it a bit too,” Hamza joked. “So I’d start my day by singing.”

    When asked about Hania Aamir, Hamza praised her recent achievements and said, “If I were Hania, then I’d be planning a trip to Sri Lanka next because she represented Pakistan so well in Bangladesh. Mashallah. So I’d plan to represent Pakistan somewhere else.”

    Finally, talking about Mahira Khan, Hamza’s tone turned thoughtful. “If I were Mahira, then I think I’d be asking for a new drama script because she needs to do more dramas,” he said. “Actually, even if I were Fawad, I’d say, we should give our TV screens a little lift. Because our TV really needs superstars like Fawad and Mahira.”

    Hamza added that Mahira continues to work in television, but he hopes Fawad will return to the small screen soon. “If Fawad starts doing TV in Pakistan, it would be a great service to Pakistani television,” he concluded.

    Hamza Ali Abbasi is best known for his roles in the blockbuster film The Legend of Maula Jatt and the hit drama Pyaray Afzal.

    He also released his book My Discovery of God, Islam & Judgement Day in 2024.

    In this work he explores his journey from atheism back to Islam and presents a rational inquiry into belief, the nature of the Creator and the concept of accountability on the Day of Judgement. 

  • Fans not happy with Sajjad Ali after he refuses to let Pakistan Idol use his songs

    Fans not happy with Sajjad Ali after he refuses to let Pakistan Idol use his songs

    Singer Sajjad Ali has stated that participants on Pakistan Idol are not allowed to perform his songs due to a dispute over copyright with the show’s organizers.


    During a recent press conference in Canada, the artist stated that the Pakistan Idol team had approached him to secure the rights for his music, but both parties could not agree on the financial terms.

    Ali noted that the limited selection of licensed tracks accessible to contestants has resulted in a lack of variety in the show’s performances. He pointed out that the organizers were unable to obtain rights for his songs and those of other artists, limiting the options available to contestants.

    “Every contestant desired to sing our songs,” he remarked, adding that anyone who performed them would receive significant admiration and possibly win the competition.

    While soke people agreed with him, most questioned his stance, calling it unfair to young performers.

    One social media user wrote, “This is a very weird action.” Another commented, “We respect you a lot, but this statement is unnecessary.” 

    Some argued that restricting songs limits creative expression on a platform meant to discover new voices. “Why didn’t you give the copyright claims? It’s a competition, contestants should be allowed to sing the song of their choice,” one person remarked. 

    Another asked, “Why are they all so full of themselves? They know how hard it is in Pakistan to sing and make a career out of it. Why not have a heart and open it up for the new generation?”

    According to Pakistan’s Copyright Ordinance of 1962, the rights to a song are exclusively owned by the creator unless licensed or transferred. Any public performance or adaptation without permission is deemed a legal infringement.

    Ali emphasised that a significant portion of the show’s licensed catalog is sourced from EMI Records, Pakistan’s oldest record label, which possesses rights to a vast collection of works from artists like Noor Jehan, Mehdi Hassan, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Strings, and Vital Signs.

    The singer’s remarks come after other musicians criticized the show. The disagreement has prevented contestants from performing Sajjad Ali’s well-known songs, but it has also sparked debate over ownership, access, and opportunities in Pakistan’s music industry.

  • Abida Parveen’s team dismisses false reports about her health

    Abida Parveen’s team dismisses false reports about her health

    The team of living legend Abida Parveen has issued a statement to dispel widespread speculation regarding the singer’s health that emerged on social media in recent days. 

    A message posted on Parveen’s official Instagram account declared that she is “perfectly healthy and well, Alhamdulillah.” The statement further highlighted that the false information circulating online had been “exaggerated,” with some media outlets reporting stories without confirmation or reliable sources.

    “We have addressed this before, but it seems necessary to emphasize it again,” the statement mentioned. “Abida Ji is in perfect health. The rumors circulating on social media recently have been exaggerated, and reputable media organizations have been disseminating news without verification or any substantial evidence.”

    Her team expressed gratitude for the concern shown by fans but urged them to check the validity of information before sharing. “We truly value your concern, but we ask that you verify the information you encounter on social media instead of passing it along without confirmation,” the statement explained.

    The message also appealed to all media organizations to retract unverified information concerning Parveen’s health. “We formally call on all media outlets to remove any unverified content relating to Abida Ji’s health,” the team stated. “We regret any worry and confusion this may have caused her fans. Keep her in your prayers.”

    This clarification came after a surge of false claims alleged that Parveen was gravely ill. Some posts even suggested she was battling cancer and that a hospital had refused to provide her treatment free of charge.These assertions gained traction across social media, raising alarm among her supporters.

    Through the statement, her team reaffirmed that all such claims were unverified and rooted in misinformation. The post urged users and media channels to depend solely on credible sources before sharing or reporting health-related news.

  • Farhan Saeed reveals he escaped mob attack in India after singing Dil Dil Pakistan

    Farhan Saeed reveals he escaped mob attack in India after singing Dil Dil Pakistan

    Pakistani singer and actor Farhan Saeed has revealed that he once narrowly escaped a mob attack in India after performing the iconic patriotic song Dil Dil Pakistan.

     

    During his recent appearance on show Hasna Mana Hai, Farhan Saeed shared stories from his career, including an unforgettable incident that took place during a visit to India.

    Farhan recalled, “I went to India with my musical band during the Aman Ki Asha initiative. We were performing in Delhi, and while singing Aadat, I suddenly began singing Pakistan’s famous national song Dil Dil Pakistan. After that, I added Jaan Jaan Hindustan and the concert turned into a huge hit! Around 25 to 30 thousand people in the crowd started singing Dil Dil Pakistan and Jaan Jaan Hindustan together.”

    The singer said that the atmosphere was electric, and everyone, including the organizers were thrilled after the show. However, things took a tense turn a couple of days later during another concert in Kolkata.

    Farhan continued, “Two days later, we had a concert in Kolkata. Just as we were finishing our last song, one of the organizers quietly came to us and whispered in our ears to immediately get into the car after the performance. We didn’t even get a chance to understand what was happening. As soon as we got into the car, we were told that a mob was gathering outside, angry over me singing Dil Dil Pakistan in Delhi.”

    Farhan Saeed said they left the venue instantly, narrowly avoiding what could have been a violent situation. Despite the scare, he said the incident remains one of the most memorable experiences of his musical journey.

    When asked whether Jal the Band would ever perform together again, Farhan responded: “I don’t know, Tabish. There’s no plan as of now, but it could happen. When I joined the band, I was just 19 years old. During our first tour to America, I wasn’t even allowed to perform at some places because I wasn’t 21 yet. I was with Jal for ten years — from 19 to 29 — but as you grow as an individual, your priorities change. In personal life, you have different choices; in professional life, you have different priorities.”

    He added, “During my time with Jal, I didn’t take up any acting projects. I started acting only after leaving the band, and that turned out to be a good decision for me. Whenever a band splits up in Pakistan, people make a big deal out of it because we’re emotional people. Even Strings parted ways after 32 years and after so long, you can’t really say a band has ‘broken up’, they just begin to work individually. It’s not like a marriage and even a marriage can end, so when people separate professionally, it’s just part of life.”

  • Did Maya Ali respond to Faiza Saqlain’s plagiarism accusations?

    Did Maya Ali respond to Faiza Saqlain’s plagiarism accusations?

    Renowned designer Faiza Saqlain has accused actor-turned-entrepreneur Maya Ali of copying her designs for her fashion label MAYA Prêt-à-Porter. Despite the public accusation, the actor has so far remained silent on the controversy.

    Taking to her personal Instagram stories earlier this week, Saqlain shared side-by-side images comparing three of her brand’s designs to those recently released by Maya’s label. “Should I be flattered?” she asked, tagging @mayapretofficial. “It’s getting boring now, please come up with something of your own — can’t promise but hopeful that might sell too.”

    The designer alleged that Maya’s team not only replicated the designs but also copied the model, styling, and backdrop used in Faiza Saqlain campaigns. Among the pieces were:

               A bridal outfit from Maya’s latest “Bus Tum” collection, resembling a 2021 Faiza Saqlain design.

               A velvet ombré sari from Maya’s “Viola Luxe” line, Faiza claimed is similar to her sari from last year.

               A black peshwas outfit that Saqlain claims mirrors one of her 2023 looks — even featuring the same model and similar shoot composition.

    The accusations quickly went viral, sparking debate across social media. Some users sided with Saqlain, calling out the similarities, while others defended Maya’s brand, insisting that fashion trends often overlap.

    One user took to X (formerly Twitter) and wrote: “maybe it’s just me but what’s so unique about this dress lmao? Idk how she can be accused of stealing things when this is the most common black desi dress design. Mahira’s one in Humsafar went viral and it has been popular on the market ever since.”

    Many users on Instagram disagreed with the claim. One user said: “I don’t see any copies design?” Another wrote: “Yes all the design are different…faiza is being senti at this point.”

    “Had hogaye,” one user laughed while another said: “Most of Pakistani traditional designs are more or less the same! What’s the big deal?”

    As of now, Maya Ali has not issued any official response to the claims. The Current reviewed her verified Instagram accounts, her personal page, as well as her brand pages Maya Pret and Maya Essential, and found no mention of the controversy.

    Instead, Maya’s social media presence has remained focused on the launch of her brand’s new collections, giveaway posts, and a recent personal photo featuring what appears to be her niece or nephew. In another post the actress can be seen enjoying a music piece of the upcoming film Neelofar’s newly launched song Tu Meri.

    Maya Ali formed MAYA Prêt-à-Porter in June 2021, in collaboration with her cousins Zainab and Ansa Qadeer. The brand focuses on luxury pret and bridal wear. In September 2025, she expanded the venture by introducing two new lines — Maya Essentials (for everyday wear) and Maya Pret Official (for formal and festive attire).

    The disputed designs belong to the label’s newly unveiled collection, which debuted earlier this month.

    So far, neither Maya Ali nor her team has commented on the matter publicly.