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  • Google’s AI more accessible in Pakistan with local currency billing

    Google’s AI more accessible in Pakistan with local currency billing

    Google has made its consumer AI subscriptions available in Pakistani rupees, removing a major payments barrier for users without international‑enabled credit cards. The move brings the Google AI Plus plan, part of the Google One family, to Pakistan as one of 40 new markets with pricing and billing handled locally.

    The AI Plus plan costs approximately Rs1,400 per month, with an introductory 50 percent discount for the first six months. The subscription includes higher usage limits in the Gemini app, access to Gemini 2.5 Pro, Veo 3 Fast for video generation, integration of Gemini in Gmail, Docs, and Sheets, 200GB of Google One storage, and family sharing for up to five members. Google did not set a global price, noting that costs vary by country, but confirmed Pakistan is included in the rollout.

    Rupee billing uses Google’s existing payment system in Pakistan, where Google One storage plans have long displayed prices in PKR. This indicates that locally issued cards can likely be used for the AI subscription without relying on international payments.

    By contrast, most competing AI subscriptions in Pakistan continue to bill in US dollars. OpenAI’s ChatGPT Plus costs $20 per month, Microsoft’s Copilot Pro charges $20 per user monthly, and Anthropic’s Claude Pro is priced in foreign currency outside supported sterling markets. Users in Pakistan often encounter card‑acceptance issues due to bank restrictions or processor rejection of international recurring payments. Many guides suggest workarounds such as virtual cards or third‑party gateways, which add cost and complexity.

    From a commercial perspective, Google has combined rupee pricing, an introductory discount, and bundled services to reduce friction and encourage adoption. This makes it easier for households to subscribe and share without managing foreign cards or exchange rates.

    The strategy reflects approaches in other price‑sensitive markets. In India, for instance, Perplexity partnered with Bharti Airtel to offer Perplexity Pro at no charge to subscribers, removing barriers at the point of purchase. Google’s local currency approach follows a similar logic, aiming to increase uptake and establish habitual use.

    The success of the rollout will depend on price sustainability and feature offerings. While the discount reduces the initial cost, a return to the full price may affect retention. Users may also compare capabilities with rivals and retain free accounts until must‑have features are introduced. For now, Google remains the only major AI provider in Pakistan offering a subscription priced in rupees and compatible with locally issued cards, along with a bundled plan that can be shared among multiple users.

  • Man kills two of his sisters for having ‘loose morals’

    Man kills two of his sisters for having ‘loose morals’

    Police in Mandi Ahmad Abad have arrested a young man on suspicion of murdering his sisters on Sunday. 

    Officers responded to a disturbance and discovered the suspect shooting at the victims, who later died from their injuries.

    According to reports, the incident occurred when Mandi Ahmad Abad SHO Adnan Rafique and his team were patrolling Mandi Ahmad Abad Road. They heard gunshots and a commotion from a nearby street and rushed to the scene. According to the police report, officers saw a young man repeatedly firing a gun at two young women.

    Police overpowered Saif ul Malook, and confiscated his weapon. However, the two victims, identified as his sisters Iqra (26) and Adeela (19), had already died. 

    During questioning, Malook told police he killed his sisters because he believed they had “loose morals.” He claimed that local residents had been taunting him over his sisters’ “bad character” and alleged inappropriate videos. He also stated that Iqra had previously eloped with a partner, adding to his “mental agony.”

    Police registered a case against Saif ul Malook based on the report filed by SHO Adnan Rafique. The investigation is ongoing.

  • Azaan Sami Khan does not like sharing private life on social media because of religious beliefs

    Azaan Sami Khan does not like sharing private life on social media because of religious beliefs

    Azaan Sami Khan talks at length about his creative processes but keeps his private life out of bounds of social media.

    In a recent interview, Azaan elaborated on his perspectives regarding marriage and family dynamics. He referred to nikah as a sacred connection and indicated that upholding the bond also involves safeguarding dignity and privacy. “I have certain religious beliefs that some relationships are sacred, and they should only be revealed when kept in modesty. As a Muslim, I believe nikah is a very sacred bond, and it also protects the respect of the woman,” he said.

    He added that modesty in marriage holds equal significance to love and companionship. “I am not saying that I haven’t made my share of mistakes in life, but I believe everyone has the right to work on themselves for the better. I would like to be known for my work, not for posting about the person in my life,” Azaan stated.

    He mentioned that social media has normalized the sharing of intimate aspects of life, but he is of the opinion that certain elements should remain private. For him, shielding family life from unnecessary exposure to the public is part of honoring both religious and cultural principles.

    His comments have attracted attention online, with many recognizing that his viewpoint represents a conscious decision to distinguish personal commitments from social media norms.

    Azaan hails from a notable artistic lineage. He is the offspring of singer Adnan Sami Khan, who moved to India after making a name for himself in Pakistan, and actor Zeba Bakhtiar, an influential personality in the film and television realm.

    Now at the age of 31, Azaan has established himself as a music composer and assistant director. He tied the knot with his childhood friend Sofia Bilgrami when he was 20. The couple welcomed two children, Ibrahim and Laila, before parting ways in 2022.

    Despite the end of his marriage, Azaan remains committed to emphasizing the significance of valuing the institution of marriage. He believes that maintaining boundaries and honoring privacy is essential for nurturing such a relationship. For him, keeping personal matters out of the public eye is not about evading attention, but about fulfilling what he considers a religious and moral obligation.

  • Shehbaz Sharif praises Trump as ‘architect of peace’, COAS as ‘man of vision’

    Shehbaz Sharif praises Trump as ‘architect of peace’, COAS as ‘man of vision’

    Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif has lauded United States (US) President Donald Trump as the “architect of peace” in South Asia, crediting him with preventing a war between neighbouring nuclear-armed countries India and Pakistan through what he called true world-class statesmanship and vision.

    Speaking to a select group of Pakistani media in London on September 28, he stated that if the conflict between the two countries had escalated, millions could have suffered.

    Military clashes between Pakistan and India erupted after the April 22 Pahalgam incident in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). India launched strikes on Pakistan on the night of May 6-7, killing civilians. In response, Pakistan shot down six Indian fighter jets, including three French-made Rafales.

    The 88-hour-long conflict ended when the United States (US) intervened and announced a ceasefire between the two countries on May 10.


    Speaking at the Pakistan High Commission (PHC) following his return from a diplomatic tour of the US and Saudi Arabia, PM Shehbaz stated: “Had President Donald Trump not intervened, South Asia could have witnessed a major war.

    “His [Trump’s] real-time leadership was vital in saving the two countries from conflict. For this reason, we nominated President Trump for a peace prize — in recognition of his statesmanship and vision. During our meeting, we explained why he fully deserved the nomination.”

    Underscoring the close working relationship between the civilian leadership and Pakistan’s military command, he heaped praise on Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal General Asim Munir. “General Asim Munir is a true nationalist. He only cares for Pakistan. Under his leadership, both the Army and Air Force have achieved remarkable successes. He is a man of vision and bravery. We discuss all important matters and take decisions in unity. It’s all for Pakistan,” PM Shehbaz said.

    Reaffirming strong civil-military alignment, he added, “General Munir and I consult on all major decisions. We are fully on the same page.”

    Highlighting the significance of a recently concluded defence agreement with Saudi Arabia, the premier described it as a “historic pact” with “global impact” and a broader message of “peace and cooperation.”

    Shehbaz also expressed optimism over “encouraging” outcomes from President Trump’s recent meeting with Muslim leaders in Washington. “We fully participated in the Gaza meeting, and God willing, its encouraging results will come out soon,” he said.

  • Social media slams ARY for putting grieving Ahmad Shah on screen

    Social media slams ARY for putting grieving Ahmad Shah on screen

    Pakistani child star Ahmad Shah broke down in tears while remembering his younger brother Umer Shah during ARY’s 25th anniversary celebrations.

    Ahmad, who rose to fame through his viral videos and appearances on television, was invited to the event alongside his elder brother. On stage, he broke down in tears while remembering his late brother Umer, who passed away earlier this month. ARY hosts Fahad Mustafa and Waseem Badami were present with him, consoling the young star as he struggled to hold back his emotions.

    Umer Shah, the younger brother of social media and television star Ahmad Shah, passed away on September 15 in Dera Ismail Khan. His sudden death followed a rapid health decline at home. According to his family, Umer began vomiting late at night, and fluid entered his lungs, which led to his untimely death.This was the second loss for the Shah family in a short period. In  2023, Ahmad Shah’s younger sister Ayesha passed away. 

    During the ceremony, Ahmad also met ARY CEO Salman Iqbal, where he once again broke into tears while meeting him. Umer had been a familiar face on shows like Jeeto Pakistan and Shan-e-Ramzan before his sudden passing, which left the entertainment industry and audiences across Pakistan in shock.

    Footage from the anniversary soon spread online, sparking mixed reactions. Many social media users expressed grief and support for Ahmad, writing prayers for patience and strength for the family. One user commented, “May Allah give them sabr. These little hearts must be broken.”

    Others questioned why Ahmad was brought to such a public platform during a period of mourning, with one comment reading, “The parents are literally playing with the mental health of their children.” Others directed criticism towards ARY and its hosts.

    Several users specifically called out Waseem Badami, saying he lacked sensitivity in handling the emotional moment. One comment read, “Someone, at least Waseem Badami, should have some sense of sensitivity.” Another accused the channel of exploiting Ahmad’s grief, writing, “ARY is doing all of this for TRP and views.”

    Others echoed similar sentiments, describing the appearance as unfair to Ahmad. “This is straight up exploitation. This is sheer madness,” one user wrote.

    The discussion has highlighted the fine line between paying tribute to a late family member and exposing a child star to public grief in front of television audiences. While some saw the moment as a heartfelt remembrance, others saw it as a case of insensitivity and commercialisation of tragedy.

  • Fans demand Babar Azam’s return to squad after poor middle-order performance in Asia Cup

    Fans demand Babar Azam’s return to squad after poor middle-order performance in Asia Cup

    Following Pakistan’s defeat to India in the Asia Cup final, cricketing fans on social media are demanding the return of former skipper Babar Azam to the team.

    The team’s middle-order repeatedly collapsed during the tournament, leading to widespread frustration and calls for a change in leadership.

    During the final on Sunday, Pakistan, batting first, managed to score only 146 runs in 19.1 overs. At one point, the team’s score was a promising 113 for 1, but a sudden collapse saw them lose nine wickets for just 33 runs.

    India chased down the 147-run target with five wickets and two balls to spare. They stumbled early at 20 for 3, but Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma steadied the innings with a 57-run stand. After Samson fell for 24, Shivam Dube added 60 runs with Varma, who remained not out on 69 to seal the win.

    The poor performance in the final left fans missing Babar’s steady presence and leadership.

    Immediately after the loss, many fans criticised the current captain’s strategy and the middle order’s irresponsible batting.

    A user wrote, “Please, it’s a request, we need Babar Azam back.” Another expressed their frustration, saying, “Please wake up Pakistan cricket is incomplete without Babar Azam, bring him back now!”

    One tweet read, “Babar Azam ki bahut yaad a raahi hai [I am missing Babar Azam a lot].”

    Prominent sports journalist Salim Khaliq also joined the debate, writing, “Bring Babar Azam back, make Shaheen Afridi captain.” 

    Babar was dropped due to concerns over his strike rate 9 months ago, as it was deemed too low for modern T20s. However, after the dramatic collapse of the current lineup, many fans are pointing out that his strike rate is far better than those of the current middle-order batsmen who failed to contribute in the final among other Asia Cup matches.

  • Attaullah Esakhelvi’s legacy shines as son Sanwal drops ‘Thewa’ promo

    Attaullah Esakhelvi’s legacy shines as son Sanwal drops ‘Thewa’ promo

    Sanwal Esakhelvi has unveiled the promo of Thewa, joining hands with his father, the legendary folk singer Attaullah Khan Esakhelvi.

    Known as one of the most celebrated voices of Pakistan’s folk music, Attaullah now shares the stage with his son, who is stepping into his father’s artistic legacy with the collaboration.

    A re-created version of Thewa is their first collaborative project. In addition to showing the new rendition, the advertisement takes viewers back in time by revealing glimpses of Attaullah’s iconic stage appearances. 

    Online, the teaser sparked excitement as people show their respect for the father-son duo.

    By blending new musical arrangements with the soulful essence of the original, Sanwal’s rendition gives the well-known melody a modern touch. The fusion aims to connect with long-time listeners while also reaching out to a younger audience.

    The promo has already garnered a lot of attention, with many people complimenting its musical finesse and emotional depth.

     It strikes a balance between traditional folk roots and contemporary production, reflecting the enduring influence of the Esakhelvi family in Pakistan’s music scene.

    The full version of Thewa is set to be released soon, and fans are eagerly waiting for its official launch.

  • Shama Junejo claims PM Shehbaz included her in Pakistan’s UN delegation as adviser

    Shama Junejo claims PM Shehbaz included her in Pakistan’s UN delegation as adviser

    UK based journalist Dr Shama Junejo has claimed that Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif had included her in Pakistan’s United Nations (UN) delegation as adviser.

    The claim comes about amidst intense speculation that started when Shama was spotted sitting behind Defence Minister Khawaja Asif’s address at a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) session on artificial intelligence (AI) last week. Social media users then unearthed her old tweets, expressing clear support for Israel.

    Following social media uproar, the defence czar took to X (formerly Twitter), on September 26, distancing himself from the matter, saying that it was the Foreign Office’s discretion to decide who can sit behind him. Later, the FO clarified that she had not been part of Pakistan’s accredited delegation.

    On September 28, however, Shama claimed in a post on X that she had been working for the prime minister for many months.

    “My policy briefs, advice and points during the Pakistan-India escalation are all part of the record and preserved,” she wrote, adding that the premier had assigned her the task of “writing the UN speech”.

    She went on to claim that the PM himself had included her in the UN delegation as an adviser and that she was also issued a security pass.

    “I worked with his team day and night. I travelled with him, stayed with his team in the same hotel and was also a part of his important meetings on the sidelines (of the UNGA session), such as the one with Bill Gates,” Shama said, adding that in another conference on climate on the UNGA sidelines, she was sitting with Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar behind the prime minister.

    In her post, she also shared a picture of herself with Asif and Pakistan Crypto Council Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Bilal Bin Saqib, as well as that of her UN card.

    Junejo maintained that at the AI conference, Bilal continued to write a new speech and “we had tea together afterwards”.

    “We sat together for 40 minutes waiting for the car, and returned to the hotel together in the same car. Khawaja Asif sahib sat with me on the backseat of the car,” she maintained, further noting that she was also at the UN “with the others” when PM Shehbaz was delivering his speech. “There, Khawaja Asif was sitting in front of me, and we all applauded together for the prime minister.”

    Moreover, Shama stated that the PM’s “historic speech was not only written by me, but it was teamwork”. She claimed to be a part of the minister’s speech-writing team since April as well. She questioned, “Why is Khawaja Asif sahib issuing such statements now and under what agenda is he tarnishing a historic visit of his government?”

    In a similar post on X, Asif’s statements and the FO’s post, according to her, “have embarrassed Pakistan globally“. She added, “If anyone attempts to malign my character or professional integrity, I reserve the right to pursue legal action in the UK.”

  • Transgender person gang-raped in Kasur by five men

    Transgender person gang-raped in Kasur by five men

    A transgender person was allegedly gang-raped on Sunday by five men in Kasur near the bypass within the jurisdiction of Saddar Police Station.

    Five suspects, including three nominated, held him and the transgender person at gunpoint before placing the victim in a car and driving her away, the FIR lodged by complainant Niaz Shah stated. 

    The incident took place in the Maan village of Kasur.

    The transgender person later called Shah to inform him that she had been gang-raped near the bypass and abandoned on the roadside.

    Police have registered a case against the five suspects and launched further investigation.

    In another incident, the remains of three transgender individuals were found in bushes near the Nagori Cooperative Housing Society, adjacent to the M-9 Motorway, in Karachi on 21st September. Their identities were later confirmed through fingerprint analysis.

    Reports quoted authorities as saying that the victims had been shot, with two receiving gunshot wounds to the chest, and the third to the head. According to Malir SSP Abdul Khaliq Pirzada, evidence collected from the scene suggests the shootings occurred at that specific location.

     Two bodies were located together while the third was found a short distance away, indicating that one might have attempted to escape.

    The condition of the bodies suggests they had been killed only hours ago, though the exact time of death will be established by a medical legal officer.

    Investigators have retrieved two 9mm shell casings, a flashlight, tissue rolls and other items from the crime scene. The bullet casings will be analysed to determine if one or more firearms were involved.

    SSP Pirzada said there were no surveillance cameras in the area but they were reviewing footage from nearby locations. He also said that there was evidence suggesting the victims had visited the site in the past.

    No mobile phones or identification documents were discovered on the bodies.

    As per the details of identification, among the deceased were 20-year-old Alex Riyasat, known as Aini, from Sheikhupura; 28-year-old Muhammad Jeel, known as Sameera, from Khairpur; and Asma.

    The Gender Interactive Alliance (GIA), an organisation advocating for transgender rights, has released a statement following the incident. It said that the three victims resided in areas surrounding Bilawal Goth and Safora Town.

    The group said that the incident highlighted a disturbing trend of targeted violence against the transgender community, portraying it as an attempt to intimidate the entire community. 

    It called on the Sindh government and police to conduct an open investigation and make prompt arrests. They also demanded the creation of a dedicated protection unit for transgender individuals and the implementation of stricter laws against hate crimes.

    In the aftermath of the killings, members of the transgender community protested outside Jinnah Hospital. The demonstration was led by activist Bindiya Rana, who denounced the murders and announced that protests would take place across the province.

     Rana said that the incident had instilled fear within the community, raising concerns about whether they should refrain from leaving their homes altogether.

     Meanwhile, Sindh Chief Minister (CM) Murad Ali Shah has instructed the provincial inspector general to immediately arrest the killers and submit a report on the situation.

  • ‘No cricket match can rewrite that truth’: Mohsin Naqvi thrashes Modi over Asia Cup post

    ‘No cricket match can rewrite that truth’: Mohsin Naqvi thrashes Modi over Asia Cup post

    Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has thrashed Indian Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi over his tweet celebrating India’s Asia Cup victory.

    “#OperationSindoor on the games field. Outcome is the same – India wins! Congrats to our cricketers,” Modi had said in a post on late Sunday night.

    With the Indian premier’s choice of words drawing immediate criticism from the general public, Naqvi also didn’t hold back his punches.

    “If war was your measure of pride, history already records your humiliating defeats at Pakistan’s hands. No cricket match can rewrite that truth. Dragging war into sport only exposes desperation and disgraces the very spirit of the game,” he said in response.

    Naqvi also said that India had once again stained the true spirit of cricket, saying that the pain of defeat in past conflicts remained fresh.

    Defence experts also criticised Modi, saying he tried to mislead the Indian public by portraying “Operation Sindoor” as a success despite the heavy losses suffered by India.

    Meanwhile, the Indian cricket team sparked fresh controversy by refusing to collect the Asia Cup trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President Mohsin Naqvi.

    The team’s stance delayed the post-match ceremony as Naqvi stood his ground. Organisers eventually carried the trophy away, while the Indian squad stayed on the field expecting the presentation to happen later.

    It was later announced that the Indian team would not be collecting its awards. 

    The incident followed earlier defiant acts during the tournament when Indian players refused to shake hands with their Pakistani counterparts, and captain Suryakumar Yadav avoided a pre-final photo with Pakistani skipper Salman Ali Agha.