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  • Lahore Smart City: Pioneering Sustainable Urban Living in Pakistan

    Lahore Smart City: Pioneering Sustainable Urban Living in Pakistan

    Cities are made like individuals, by trial and error, and some vision. In Pakistan, Lahore  City appears to be the new home to that vision and a project that defines our new thinking about modern life. It is not only about buildings or technology but also about the pace of life in a city that is finally civilised towards its residents.

    A silent assurance of how Lahore Smart City is tackling the idea of sustainable urban living exists. It does not scream innovation; it breathes it. You can see it in the uncluttered design, the shining solar panels under the Lahore sun, the walkways being bordered with trees that literally offer shade. It’s practical and poetic at once, something you rarely see in new developments.

     

    The Rise of a Smarter, Kinder City

    You can feel it shift toward mindful design. Lahore Smart City was not designed to be any other real estate project. It is one of the steps that Pakistan takes in the direction of cleaner and smarter urban life, where the environment is not considered a by-product. There are mentions of environment-friendly houses, intelligent grids, and even community-based waste disposal.

    These are more important than we care to admit. People who have ever experienced the summer heat in Lahore and the traffic jams there understand the value of fresh air and open spaces. Lahore City will guarantee that it is not a luxury but a lifestyle promise.

     

    Innovation That Feels Human

    Technology can make life efficient, sure, but Lahore Smart City manages to make it feel personal. The smart home technology here isn’t just about gadgets; it’s about convenience that fades into the background. Lights that adjust naturally, systems that save energy quietly. You don’t notice it working; you just notice you’re more comfortable.

    And there’s something poetic in that. Cities should respond to their people, not overwhelm them. That’s the difference between smart and soulless. Developers like The Champion recognise that, too, focusing not only on progress but on preserving warmth, the human touch that keeps a city alive.

     

    The Pulse of a New Economy

    Beyond architecture, Lahore Smart City has economic muscle. It will not only provide employment, but will also attract foreign investors and will also take the construction standards in Pakistan to a higher level. The prospective investors are already considering investing in Lahore City because they are not only considering the land but also the country.

    The growth feels organic. Businesses will rise where people gather, and communities will shape themselves around shared spaces. That’s the kind of development that sustains itself, not a boom, but a pulse that keeps steady.

     

    A Future Rooted in Culture

    You’d think a smart city might lose touch with its roots, but Lahore Smart City surprises you. The design still carries traces of Lahore’s charm, open courtyards, cultural corners, and places that invite connection. It’s progress that doesn’t erase memory. The use of modern amenities Lahore Smart City offers fits seamlessly with traditional comfort, making it both futuristic and familiar.

    It’s rare to find development in Pakistan that feels this balanced. Maybe that’s why people are drawn to it, not for the hype, but for the hope.

     

    A Vision Worth Watching

    Lahore Smart City is not just a project in its purest form. It is a question: can a city really grow without its soul? This response is encouraging, thus far. The vegetation, the technology, the considerations in each line of its construction all hint at a change in the cities that are coming to know their citizens at last.

    And perhaps that is what Pakistan has been longing for: a city that not only works, but breathes.

    Read Also:  Richard Giannotti and Joy Taylor’s Marriage Story

  • Pakistanis bash Salman Khan for referring to Balochistan as separate country in viral video

    Pakistanis bash Salman Khan for referring to Balochistan as separate country in viral video

    Bollywood superstar Salman Khan is facing heavy criticism on social media after a viral video surfaced from his recent appearance at the Joy Forum in Riyadh, where he seemingly referred to Balochistan as a separate country. The remark has stirred controversy, with many accusing the actor of making a factually incorrect statement that serves the agenda of the far-right Indian government.

    During an address at the high-profile entertainment conference in the Saudi capital, the Bajrangi Bhaijaan actor was speaking about the global popularity of Indian cinema, particularly in the Middle East. In the now-viral video clip, Salman Khan said: “If you release a Bollywood film or any Tamil, Telugu or Malayalam film and release it here, it will be a super hit and earn hundreds of crores here because many people from our countries come here to work. There are people from Balochistan, people from Pakistan and Afghanistan working here.”

    The reference to “people from Balochistan” as distinct from those from Pakistan was immediately seized upon by Pakistani netizens, who viewed it as a statement implying that Balochistan, a province of Pakistan that is facing increased terrorism from Indian-backed terrorists, was a separate nation.

    The reaction on social media was swift and intense with many users expressing anger over what they perceived as an affront to Pakistan’s territorial integrity.

    One user wrote sarcastically: “Salman Khan – An actor turned separatist! If you are Salman Khan, you can separate anything from anywhere except the footpath from the main road. Blackbuck from the Bishnoi community. However, Bhai was successful in separating Vivek Oberoi from Bollywood. His only achievement as a separatist so far.”

    Another user commented: “Salman bhai apni khud ki geopolitics khel rahe hai.”

    (Salman Bhai is playing his own version of geopolitics.)

    Others were more dismissive, suggesting the actor simply misspoke or lacked awareness of the geopolitical implications of his words.

    “Acting is his profession. What do you expect from an actor?” another post read.

    The Joy Forum, hosted annually in Riyadh, is a major entertainment event that brings together global stars, producers, and influencers from the film, music, and gaming industries. Khan was among several international celebrities invited to attend this year’s edition, which aims to boost Saudi Arabia’s emerging entertainment sector under its Vision 2030 initiative.

    It remains unclear whether Salman Khan’s comment was a genuine mistake or a poorly worded attempt to attack Pakistan.

  • Morocco wins first-ever Under-20 FIFA World Cup title

    Morocco wins first-ever Under-20 FIFA World Cup title

    Morocco made history by winning the Under-20 FIFA World Cup for the first time after defeating Argentina 2-0 in the final held in Chile.

    The title clash held at Santiago’s Julio Martínez Prádanos National Stadium saw Mohamed Yassir Zbiri scoring twice in the 12th and 29th minutes to secure victory for his team. His outstanding performance earned him the Player of the Match award.

    With this triumph, Morocco became the first African nation since Ghana in 2009 to win the Under-20 World Cup.

    Throughout the tournament, Morocco delivered strong performances, beating South Korea, the United States, and France in the knockout stages to reach the final.

    Argentina, which had remained unbeaten in the tournament, struggled in the final with the absence of key players Claudio Echeverri of Bayer Leverkusen and Franco Mastantuono of Real Madrid.

  • Iffat Omar joins chorus of voices criticising Main Manto Nahin Hoon

    Iffat Omar joins chorus of voices criticising Main Manto Nahin Hoon

    Actor Iffat Omar has joined public criticism of Main Manto Nahi Hoon following a recent episode that drew attention for its portrayal of a relationship between a teacher and his student.

    The debate began when human rights lawyer Reema Omer shared a scene from the drama on X, showing university students boycotting professor Manto’s lecture and urging him to marry his student Mehmal. The clip triggered strong reactions online, with viewers questioning the appropriateness of presenting such a relationship on screen.

    Iffat Omar reshared Omer’s post and expressed her disapproval, highlighting the involvement of some of Pakistan’s most prominent actors, writers, and directors in the project.

    Her response contributed to the surge of criticism, with social media users directing their remarks at writer Khalil-ur-Rehman Qamar and lead actors Humayun Saeed and Sajal Aly. Many questioned why established figures in the industry would participate in such content.

    Several viewers warned that depicting teacher–student relationships in this manner could influence societal perceptions, particularly affecting girls and women pursuing higher education. Others dismissed the scene as fictional, noting that relationships of this kind have occurred in reality. Despite this, the majority of criticism focused on the ethical implications and cultural sensitivity of the storyline.

    Qamar, who has previously faced backlash for controversial writing and remarks, once again became the focal point. Observers described the plot as disconnected from social norms and raised questions about the message it conveys.

    Main Manto Nahi Hoon has faced criticism in earlier episodes as well. The show was previously called out for scenes containing fat-shaming jokes and for outdated depictions of female characters. 

    The debate also highlighted questions about the roles of producers and directors in approving the project and the decisions of lead actors to participate. 

    Many social media users expressed concern about the potential impact of such content on young women and its wider social implications and despite the backlash, the drama continues to trend online.

  • Islamabad High Court issues notices over petition against ‘inappropriate activities’ at Faisal Mosque

    Islamabad High Court issues notices over petition against ‘inappropriate activities’ at Faisal Mosque

    The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has issued notices to multiple government officials and institutions in response to a petition highlighting “inappropriate” video recordings taking place within the premises of Faisal Mosque.

    According to the petition, various videos circulating on social media show individuals recording content inside the mosque while wearing what he argued were “inappropriate clothes”, and in some cases, dancing.

    The petitioner argued that such acts violate the sanctity and dignity of the mosque and offend the religious sentiments of the public.

    The petitioner emphasised that the recording of such content within a place of worship was also a breach of Article 20 of the Constitution, which guarantees religious freedom and the right to practice one’s faith in peace and respect.

    Despite submitting written complaints to the mosque administration, the deputy commissioner of Islamabad, and the chairman of the Capital Development Authority (CDA), no action was taken to address the issue, the petitioner claimed.

    During the hearing on Monday, the judge asked whom the court should direct for action in this matter.

    The petitioner’s lawyer responded that several parties, including those in charge of Faisal Mosque, had been named in the petition.

    In response, the IHC issued formal notices to all relevant parties and asked them to submit their replies.

  • Top influencer Adnan reveals why he became ‘Ken Doll’

    Top influencer Adnan reveals why he became ‘Ken Doll’

    Social media influencer Adnan Zafar, popularly known as Ken Doll, has shared the interesting story behind his identity and fame.

    Appearing on Tabish Hashmi’s show Hasna Mana Hai, Zafar opened up about how he got his name and public persona.

    According to him, he became Ken Doll due to public demand. While living in Dubai, people would often tell him that his body was well-proportioned, his facial structure, especially the jawline was perfect, and that he looked just like Ken from Barbie movies.

    “People used to say these things to me, and I was really influenced by that. That’s when I decided I wanted to become Ken.”

    He further explained that since he had studied business and was already active on social media, he saw an opportunity. “I thought, why not turn this identity into a business?” he added.

    He chose “Ken” as his username on social media, and as soon as he did, he began gaining immense popularity. His follower count increased rapidly, various brands started contacting him, and he received collaboration offers from different countries.

    He clarified that this was not just a character but a “lifestyle”.

    “To maintain this persona, I have to take special care of my health and lifestyle—what I eat and what I do.”

    According to Ken Doll, when he introduced his inner Faisalabadi humor to the public, it created a unique blend of beauty and comedy, which his fans loved.

    During the show , he was also asked whether he faced criticism from his family or relatives due to this lifestyle.

    “Criticism exists everywhere, and it mostly comes when someone is doing better than others. But I don’t give such things much importance.”

    “I was like that even in school. I used to participate in many activities like skits, dramas, music and everything like that. My school never stopped me, and supported my creative side,” he added.

    His videos are widely shared on Instagram and has over 2.4 million followers on the platform.

  • Internet loses it over ‘bold scene’ between Lazawal Ishq contestants

    Internet loses it over ‘bold scene’ between Lazawal Ishq contestants

    A recent episode of the online reality show Lazawal Ishq has triggered widespread criticism online after an intimate moment between two participants was shown on screen.

    A male contestant named Junaid can be seen speaking about his late mother while another participant named Jannat, listens and becomes emotional. As she began to cry, Junaid hugged her to comfort her, kissed her on the head multiple times, and held her for a while.

    The clip, taken from the show’s 14th episode, quickly spread across social media platforms, where many users called it inappropriate in the conservative country. Dozens of posts appeared on X and Instagram condemning the moment and questioning why such content was being broadcast.

    One viewer wrote, “I don’t understand why people are watching this crap?” Another user commented, “Such pathetic things are getting common day by day in these stupid Pakistani shows. We should not watch these useless shows.” Several users demanded that the show be banned entirely, arguing that it was against local norms and values.

    The show, filmed in Turkey, features four men and four women living together in a single villa as they try to find potential partners. Promoted as Pakistan’s first dating reality show, Lazawal Ishq has been controversial since its launch. Its first episode, released on YouTube on September 29, immediately drew criticism for copying Western dating formats and being “un-Islamic.”

    From its debut, hashtags calling for the ban of Lazawal Ishq have trended on social media, with users saying that the show promotes behaviour inconsistent with Pakistan’s social and cultural environment. Each new episode has continued to face backlash, with viewers accusing the producers of ignoring public sentiment for the sake of online views.

    The controversy has also drawn responses from celebrities. Actor Mishi Khan criticised the show, saying it went against Pakistani traditions. Fiza Ali also voiced disapproval, warning that such content could negatively influence young viewers.

    Amid the growing criticism, political and regulatory bodies have been dragged into the discussion. Muhammad Faik Shah, Chairman of the Aman Taraqi Party, has filed a petition in the Islamabad High Court demanding action against the show. The petition calls on the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) to take notice of the content.

    In response, PEMRA clarified that because Lazawal Ishq airs exclusively on YouTube, it does not fall under the authority’s jurisdiction. The body stated that its mandate covers content broadcast on licensed television channels, not digital platforms.


    Despite repeated public calls for a ban, new episodes continue to be released on YouTube, with each one attracting both criticism and curiosity. The show’s makers have not issued any official response following the latest controversy.

    The debate around Lazawal Ishq has now expanded beyond entertainment circles, raising broader questions about the limits of content moderation, online regulation, and cultural representation in Pakistan’s growing digital media space.

  • International trips, luxury cars; FBR detects over 20 suspected tax evaders with undeclared assets

    International trips, luxury cars; FBR detects over 20 suspected tax evaders with undeclared assets

    The Lifestyle Monitoring Cell of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has flagged over 20 individuals believed to be hiding their income and assets despite exhibiting a luxurious lifestyle.

    These cases involve taxpayers who possess multimillion-rupee real estate, high-end vehicles, and frequently travel abroad, yet declare very low incomes in their tax returns.

    Official statistics reveal that three prominent cases have been brought to light so far. One case centers on a digital content creator and travel vlogger whose public social media updates displayed extensive international travel from 2020 to 2025. 

    The FBR uncovered through his online posts that he visited numerous countries including Seychelles, the UAE, the Philippines, Spain, the Netherlands, Türkiye, the UK, the Maldives, Georgia, Saudi Arabia, Croatia, Italy, Portugal, Hungary, France, Belgium, Switzerland, Sweden, Denmark, Greece, Austria, and the Czech Republic.

    While the costs related to these travels are significant, the individual reported an annual income averaging less than Rs0.8 million.

    His 2020 tax return indicated earnings of Rs490,800, expenses of Rs390,000, and net assets amounting to Rs1,090,800. In 2021, he reported an income of Rs541,880 and expenses of Rs385,000. For 2022, his declared income was Rs564,040 with expenses at Rs396,000. In 2023, he reported an income of Rs784,600 and expenses of Rs480,000, with net assets of Rs1,672,320. The income reported for 2024 was Rs816,800, while expenses tallied to Rs504,000 and assets totaled Rs1,929,120. These figures do not align with the scale of his travel and lifestyle, suggesting hidden income.

    In a separate case, the FBR discovered undeclared assets totaling Rs180.5 million owned by an individual linked to a political family in South Punjab.

     Public records indicated that he possessed and used four luxury vehicles not documented in either his or his father’s tax filings. These included a Lexus LX 570 valued at Rs80 million, a Toyota Fortuner Legender worth Rs15 million, a Suzuki Hayabusa superbike priced at Rs5.5 million, and a BMW i7 electric car valued at Rs80 million. However, his tax returns only mentioned two motorcycles: a BMW M1000 RR, valued at Rs14.2 million, and a BMW R1250GS worth Rs9.8 million, summing to a declared value of Rs31.28 million. In the subsequent year, only one motorcycle continued to be declared.

    A third instance involved a taxpayer from southern Punjab owning 19 vehicles, which included sports cars, SUVs, motorcycles, and off-road trucks, collectively appraised at Rs624 million. 

    The identified vehicles comprised a Chevrolet Corvette C8 worth Rs80 million, a Yamaha Raptor 700R ATV valued at Rs6.5 million, a Harley Davidson Pan America motorcycle priced at Rs15 million, and a Chevrolet Silverado worth Rs40 million. Other vehicles included two Toyota Hilux Revo double cabins valued at Rs40 million, a Toyota FJ Cruiser priced at Rs15 million, a Ford F-150 Raptor at Rs70 million, along with numerous variants of Land Cruisers ranging from Rs4 million to Rs90 million. Additionally, the taxpayer owned a Range Rover appraised at Rs80 million, an Audi Q7 valued at Rs30 million, a Toyota 4Runner worth Rs60 million, a Toyota Tundra priced at Rs25 million, among several other models. None of these vehicles were reported in the taxpayer’s income declarations.

    The FBR’s investigations revealed a substantial discrepancy between reported wealth and visible assets, indicating substantial tax evasion.

    Inconsistencies between reported income and expenditures have been confirmed, and formal inquiries have commenced against all identified individuals. Officials mentioned that the identities of these taxpayers cannot be disclosed due to confidentiality regulations concerning income tax. 

    The Lifestyle Monitoring Cell functions under the Directorate of Intelligence and Investigation (Inland Revenue) and was created to identify individuals who openly exhibit luxurious lifestyles while reporting minimal or no taxable income. 

    By utilizing social media and other public data sources, the cell observes these inconsistencies and sends intelligence reports to the appropriate Regional Tax Offices for legal measures and recovery actions. Officials have stated that all 20 cases are currently being investigated, and additional action will be taken once the inquiries are concluded.

  • Osman Khalid Butt roasts misogynistic expectations after controversial Jama Taqseem scene

    Osman Khalid Butt roasts misogynistic expectations after controversial Jama Taqseem scene

    Actor and writer Osman Khalid Butt has once again used wit and satire to challenge patriarchal norms, this time in response to a controversial tweet that circulated on X (formerly Twitter), following a scene from the most-talked drama Jama Taqseem.

    The now-viral scene features Qais (played by Talha Chahour) asking his wife Laila (Mawra Hocane) to manage his daily essentials including socks, shoes, belt, and underwear because that’s how he was “raised” by his mother and family. The moment sparked widespread debate, prompting one netizen to share a list of “qualities” a woman must possess to be considered marriage material.

    The list read: “Never marry a girl who:

    •             Doesn’t make breakfast for you

    •             Can’t organize your daily essentials

    •             Leaves your shoes and socks dirty

    •             Doesn’t know how to tie a tie

    •             Lacks basic domestic skills

    •             Doesn’t respect traditional household roles”

    Osman Khalid Butt, known for his sharp commentary and progressive views, responded with biting sarcasm, mocking the regressive checklist with his own exaggerated and hilarious “26-point guide” for what some men apparently expect from a wife.

    “This list is weak. Allow me to expand,” he began, before launching into a satirical tirade that highlighted the absurdity of such expectations. His list included gems like: “Won’t whisper Masha’Allah my big strong boy I’m sure your daddy loves you every time you breathe.”

    “Refuses to hand-wash your fragile masculinity in washing powder Nirma. Once said ‘therapy’ instead of ‘dua. Can’t make roti that heals your generational trauma. Doesn’t fold your emotional baggage & Oedipus complex neatly.”

    Butt’s satire struck a chord across social media, with many applauding his ability to expose the underlying misogyny that often goes unchecked in desi households and media.

    His post quickly went viral, with users praising the actor for calling out problematic gender roles with humor and insight.

    Osman Khalid Butt has long used his platform to advocate for gender equality, mental health awareness, and the importance of progressive storytelling in Pakistani media.

    The drama is winning hearts by showing the bitter realities of life and the writer has very aggressively handled the writing with some very harsh lessons taught in previous episodes.

  • Over 1,000 vacated houses demolished at Afghan camp in Sohrab Goth

    Over 1,000 vacated houses demolished at Afghan camp in Sohrab Goth

    Local authorities in Karachi, in collaboration with city police, have demolished more than 1,000 houses vacated by Afghans at the United Nations-designated Afghan Camp in Sohrab Goth over the past five days, officials confirmed on Sunday.

    According to SSP-West Tariq Illahi Mastoi, the operation began on October 15, and so far around 1,200 out of more than 3,000 houses have been torn down.

     He said that over 14,000 Afghan nationals had already departed the camp before the demolition drive started.

    SSP-West Tariq Illahi Mastoi reports that since the operation started on October 15, almost 1,200 of the more than 3,000 houses had been demolished. Before the demolition effort began, he said, more than 14,000 Afghan nationals had already left the camp.

    The clearance operation commenced on Sunday and should be finished in the coming days, he added. Law enforcement officers faced some opposition from a suspected land mafia on the first day, but since then, operations have moved forward without any problems.

    SSP Mastoi explained that the operation was being carried out in line with the federal government’s policy after concerns emerged that certain groups were attempting to seize the land illegally, potentially disturbing public order.


    The land in question is owned by the Malir Development Authority.

    About 15,680 Afghans had previously lived at the camp, according to officials. Of these, 1,384 are being transported back in stages, while 14,296 have made it back to Afghanistan.

    The operation followed a letter from West-Zone DIG Irfan Ali Baloch to the Additional IGP Karachi and other authorities, warning of attempts by the land mafia to occupy the vacated area.

    The DIG also recommended forming a special committee comprising representatives from the city administration, police, and other relevant departments to safeguard the government-owned land from encroachment.

    The Afghan Camp was once considered the largest settlement for displaced persons, with an estimated 30,000 residents at its peak.