Category: Entertainment

Author and former Bollywood star Twinkle Khanna, known for her sharp humour and bold writing, has strongly criticised the removal of Pakistani artists from Indian entertainment platforms. 

In her latest column for The Times of India, the former Bollywood actress and bestselling writer highlighted how Pakistani actors are being erased from film posters and music covers without any official announcement.

Khanna mentioned that while she was enjoying Sanam Teri Kasam’s songs on Spotify, she noticed something strange. 

“After the recent re-release of Sanam Teri Kasam, I have been listening to the songs on repeat. While browsing Spotify, I realised actor Mawra Hocane had been edited out from the album cover. Further digging reveals that other Pakistani actors like Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan have been similarly erased from their online posters,” she wrote in her column. 

Khanna didn’t stop there. She used her signature satire to take a bold jab at cultural bans.

“Not wanting to be left behind in doing my duty as a good citizen, I propose that we get all of Abida Parveen and Farida Khanum’s songs re-dubbed by our very own Dhinchak Pooja. That will really teach the Pakistanis a lesson,” she wrote.

Her remarks come amid growing cross-border tensions following the April 22 Pahalgam incident. Since then, films and songs featuring Pakistani artists have quietly disappeared from Indian platforms. Digital posters of movies like Kapoor & Sons and Raees no longer show Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan despite their lead roles.

The issue has also sparked controversy between Sanam Teri Kasam co-stars Harshvardhan Rane and Mawra Hocane. Rane recently claimed that Hocane had called India’s military action “cowardly” on social media and said he would not be part of the sequel if she is involved.

Hocane fired back, calling his reaction a “PR strategy.” In response, Rane wrote on Instagram, “I simply offered to step down from Part 2. I am fully within my rights to choose not to work with individuals who label my country’s actions as ‘cowardly’… An Indian farmer would pluck out the unwanted weed from his crop. It’s called WEEDING.”

Meanwhile, Abir Gulaal, an upcoming romantic drama featuring Pakistani star Fawad Khan and Indian actress Vaani Kapoor, has been banned in both India and Pakistan. Songs from the film have also been removed from YouTube India.

Veteran actor Asif Raza Mir is set to return to television in Six Sigma Entertainment’s highly anticipated drama Main Manto Nahin Hoon, directed by Nadeem Baig and written by Khalil-ur-Rehman Qamar. The project stars Humayun Saeed and Sajal Aly in lead roles, with Asif Raza Mir also featured in the cast.

In a recent interview with host Maleeha Rehman, the senior actor shared his excitement about the project.

“It’s a very interesting story, and it was a pleasure working with Nadeem Baig,” he said.

“The story is set in androon [inner city] Lahore, and the writer has created an entire world of his own. It’s fascinating, and I am curious to see how the audience will respond. There will be a lot to enjoy in the drama beyond just the script,” he shared.

What has caught everyone’s attention, however, is his on-screen relationship with Sajal Aly, who was previously married to his son, Ahad Raza Mir. In the drama, he plays her father-in-law, a casting choice that has naturally sparked conversation.

When asked about any discomfort, he responded with calm confidence: “No. I was asked about this when the casting was being finalised, and I felt it didn’t matter. There is no animosity between us, and we are both professionals. Perhaps it required some courage on her part as well as mine, but ultimately life goes on, and we are mature enough to work together if needed.”

He continued, “I think people need to understand this, too. We are all human, and sometimes human relationships don’t last. Life goes on, and people don’t need to keep pining over the past.”

This marks the first time Asif Raza Mir has spoken publicly about Ahad and Sajal’s separation.

“A relationship did not work, so it ended. There could be any number of reasons for that,” he said.

Praising Sajal’s approach, he added, “Sajal’s step is a testament to courage and intelligence. We both have resolved to leave the past behind and follow the path of art through this project.”

Speaking about a viral video showing Ahad and Sajal appearing at the same award event, he said, “There is so much maturity in our family that we do not take social media rumours and talk seriously.”

“Forming and breaking relationships are part of life. The real greatness lies not in reopening old wounds, but in moving forward with dignity,” Asif Raza Mir believes.

Ahad Raza Mir and Sajal Aly got married in March 2020, and rumours of their divorce began circulating in March 2022. Although both stars have remained silent, this interview marks the first public confirmation of their split by a family member.

After rising tensions between Pakistan and India, Bollywood poet Javed Akhtar is once again facing strong backlash from Pakistani showbiz personalities for his controversial comment: “If I have to choose between going to hell or Pakistan, I would prefer to go to hell.”

His remark sparked immediate outrage on social media, with several Pakistani celebrities responding strongly.

Actor Imran Abbas responded with sarcasm, stating, “If he had not chosen hell, he would have ended up there anyway, but maybe in the lower economy class. We gave him only business/first class; otherwise, he wasn’t worthy of any other class.”

Actor Bilal Qureshi commented, “Aise logon ke liye hi kaha gaya hai: Go to Hell woh bhi Raw-fail mein.”

Actor Ahsan Mohsin Ikram posted an Instagram story saying, “A moment of silence for all those Pakistani celebrities who welcomed this man with open arms. Shame on all those celebrities,  you gave respect to a man who has no respect for the country you belong to. Just for your personal benefits, you welcomed him. Shame!”

Actor Asim Mehmood also wrote, “Meri dua hai ke aapki yeh dili murad jald puri ho. InshaAllah wahin jayenge aap. Sab bolo Aameen!”

Tensions between Pakistan and India have sharply escalated following the Pahalgam incident in Indian illegally occupied Kashmir on April 22. In the early hours of May 7, India launched airstrikes in multiple regions of Pakistan, including Kotli, Bahawalpur, and Muzaffarabad, reportedly killing at least 30 civilians and injuring over 40.

In response, Pakistan downed six Indian aircraft, including three Rafale jets marking the first time Rafales have been brought down in combat. The following day, over 30 Indian drones were reportedly shot down across Pakistani territory.

On the night of May 9, India launched missile strikes on Pakistani airbases. In retaliation, Pakistan initiated Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos at dawn on May 10, targeting several Indian military installations. Key strikes included a BrahMos missile depot in Beas, an airbase in Adampur, and an airfield in Pathankot. Pakistani drones reportedly reached New Delhi, while JF-17 fighter jets destroyed India’s S-400 missile defence system in Adampur.

After a strong retaliation from Pakistan, India agreed to a ceasefire on the same day.

Stage dramas in Pakistan have often struggled to attract family audiences, but Monkey Business is a refreshing surprise. After kicking off in Karachi, it’s now playing in Lahore at AlHamra; a must-watch full of humour, energy, and brilliant storytelling.

Yasir Hussain’s smart direction and witty writing make Monkey Business a standout show that truly brings back the joy of live theatre.

The story follows Wasim, played by Yasir, a struggling actor trying to make it in the entertainment industry. He lives with his artistic wife Sana, played by Yusra Irfan, and their overly enthusiastic tenant Sherry, played by Umer Aalam, who also dreams of becoming an actor.

Their quiet life is turned upside down when Wasim gets a call from an investigation officer about misused funds, sparking a hilarious chain of misunderstandings and chaos.

Yasir Hussain’s clever, lighthearted jokes about the recent Pakistan-India conflict were the one of the highlights, which had everyone laughing out loud.

The cast delivers great performances, each actor adding charm to their role. The dialogues feel natural, scenes are well-paced, and the comedy is fresh and original.

The Monkey Business cast includes Yasir Hussain, Yusra Irfan, Umer Aalam, Bilal Yousafzai, Khizer Ansari, Osama Bin Atiq, and Abdullah Wahab.

Actress Sara Khan has sparked online backlash after saying she’s not a feminist and prefers being seen as a “traditional” woman.

In her recent interview with Independent Urdu, Sara said she does not consider herself a “big feminist” but rather aligns with conventional gender norms and traditions.

According to her, men should be given the position that is traditionally “reserved for them” so that women can live peacefully.

“I am a woman who stays at home. I don’t like standing in queues for bills, and I want to be treated the same way traditional women were treated,” she said.

Sara Khan’s comments on feminism gained significant attention on social media and quickly went viral.

One user commented that feminism means raising a voice for oppressed women; it’s not about standing in queues or not.

Another user criticised her by saying this kind of thinking is holding Pakistan back, as more than half the population remains confined to their homes.

On the topic of India banning the Instagram accounts of Pakistani showbiz stars, Sara said she was not aware of the situation until her husband and singer, Falak Shabbir, informed her through a screenshot showing that her account had been blocked in India.

According to the actress, “I didn’t take it personally, but I felt sad for my Indian fans who will no longer be able to see me on Instagram.”

Popular YouTuber Rajab Butt has responded to the viral video, which netizens claimed showed him assaulting a man alongside his friends, by issuing an apology to the victim.

The footage, which surfaced on Friday, triggered massive public backlash and drew police attention.

According to reports, the incident occurred in Lahore, where Rajab Butt and his associates were seen attacking a man seated inside a car. The footage went viral across various platforms, igniting fierce criticism from the public.

Following the incident, the victim was identified as Shayan, who was reportedly mistreated by Rajab Butt. The driver, Imran, supported Shayan’s case and filed a complaint on his behalf at the Satu Katla Police Station.

It is important to note that Rajab Butt allegedly assaulted Shayan, not Imran.

In the complaint, Imran stated that a motorcyclist was riding dangerously in front of his vehicle. When he asked the rider to stop, Rajab Butt and his group blocked the road and began assaulting Shayan without any warning.

Imran added that he approached the police only after the footage went viral.

Multiple sources also claim that Rajab Butt and his companions attempted to pressure Imran into withdrawing the complaint.

However, a new video later surfaced showing Rajab Butt apologising to Shayan and referring to the incident as a “misunderstanding.”

According to Lahore Police, the matter now appears to be resolved. Rajab Butt has apologised to the affected party, and Imran has withdrawn the complaint.

Earlier, Butt faced backlash for launching a perfume named “295”, a reference to Pakistan’s blasphemy law. The move sparked widespread criticism and resulted in a case registered against him at the Nishtar Colony police station under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA). The FIR accused him of hurting public sentiments and promoting indecency.

 
The controversy deepened after Butt referenced the late Indian rapper Sidhu Moose Wala’s blasphemy allegations and linked them to himself. His statement and the perfume’s name angered religious groups and social activists.

 
In response, Butt issued a public apology from Masjid-e-Haram in Makkah, where he recited Darood Sharif, stating:

 
“My wealth, life, parents, children, and every drop of my blood are dedicated to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).”

 
He claimed his statements were taken out of context and urged religious scholars and authorities to “cleanse their hearts” and reconsider the charges. He also alleged that a key word was edited out of his video, which led to a fatwa being issued against him.

 
Despite the apology, TLP leader Haider Ali Shah Gillani filed an FIR against Butt for insulting religious sentiments and hate speech. If convicted, he could face up to 10 years in prison.

 
Following intense criticism, Rajab Butt announced he would discontinue the “295” perfume, admitting his remarks may have been poorly worded and expressing regret for any offence caused.

Actor Bilal Ashraf is often the subject of rumours and speculation, most of it concerning his personal life. 

The actor recently took to Instagram with a cheeky response to the growing buzz around his private life, particularly the rumors linking him romantically with fellow actor Maya Ali.

In a humorous Instagram story, he wrote:

“I like rumors. I find out so much about myself that I didn’t even know.”

His lighthearted take comes amid a wave of speculation on social media following his recent public appearances and photoshoots with Maya Ali.

Earlier, the two stars were seen attending a Quetta Gladiators match together in Lahore, sparking renewed interest in their off-screen bond. But it was their photoshoot for Rashid Textile’s lawn collection that truly set the internet ablaze.

The shoot featured the duo in an elegant and dreamy setting, showcasing their effortless chemistry. The warm, romantic undertones of the campaign left fans swooning and speculating.

Social media users couldn’t hold back:

“This is what we call the perfect vibe.”

“Just get married already”

“Such a beautiful couple on and off-screen.”

Though Maya Ali and Bilal Ashraf have never confirmed being in a relationship, their strong friendship and natural rapport have long been adored by fans.

date, time etc auto load select proeprty one, multipl, group, all) change status bill paid save and submit form. get paid invoice form system and send pdf to all phone numbers on whatsapp incase of discount given to anyone then use one bill generation and the complete bill will load and user can add discount in it

Actress Neelum Munir has praised Pakistan’s military leadership and expressed pride in Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir following the recent successful military operation against Indian aggression from May 6–10.

Taking to Instagram, she shared her views on the ongoing situation between Pakistan and India, strongly criticising the Indian ruling party, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

In her story, Neelum wrote, “BJP is destroying India due to its Hindutva ideology. The Indian government keeps making false allegations against Pakistan to divert the attention of its citizens from internal problems and its Nazi-inspired agenda.”

In a second story, she shared: “Alhamdulillah, Thanksgiving Day is being celebrated all across Pakistan. The battle for truth is a historic victory.”

She went on to write, “The entire nation, including me, is proud of the brave youth of our army. We are paying tribute to them, and this moment will be remembered for a long time. I am very proud of my army and our Chief of Army Staff, Syed Asim Munir.”

Neelum Munir, who has starred in several successful television dramas and films, is admired not only in Pakistan but also has a significant fan following across the border. Her strong and vocal stance on national matters often draws public attention and appreciation.

Meanwhile, tensions between India and Pakistan sharply escalated following the Pahalgam incident in Indian-occupied Kashmir on April 22. In the early hours of May 7, India launched airstrikes in multiple regions of Pakistan, including Kotli, Bahawalpur, and Muzaffarabad, reportedly killing at least 30 civilians and injuring over 40.

In response, Pakistan downed six Indian aircraft, including three Rafale jets, marking the first instance of Rafales being brought down in combat. The following day, more than 30 Indian drones were reportedly shot down across Pakistan.