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  • Pakistan’s Usman Wazeer knocks out Indian boxer in less than 2 minutes

    Pakistan’s Usman Wazeer knocks out Indian boxer in less than 2 minutes

    In a thrilling boxing match, Pakistani professional boxer Usman Wazeer once again made the nation proud by knocking out Indian boxer Eswaran Sahita Dorothy in the very first round.

    As per the details, the bout ended in just 1 minute and 41 seconds, showcasing Usman’s power and dominance in the ring.

    The match was held at the World Siam Stadium in Bangkok and was preceded by the traditional weigh-in ceremony on Wednesday, where Usman was already considered the favourite to win.

    As soon as the bell rang, Usman entered the ring with an aggressive strategy. Within moments, he landed two powerful punches that left the Indian boxer unable to continue. Sahita fell to the canvas, and the referee quickly declared Usman Wazeer the winner by knockout.

    Usman, who holds multiple titles, including the WBO Youth World Champion, WBC Middle East Champion, and WBA Asian Champion, remains undefeated in all 16 of his professional fights. His consistency and knockout power continue to establish him as a rising star in the boxing world.

    This isn’t the first time Usman has dominated an Indian opponent in Thailand. Back in September 2024, he knocked out Indian boxer Tehlak Selvam in just 65 seconds, further solidifying his reputation as a fierce competitor.

    Following his latest victory, Usman dedicated the win to the people of Pakistan and the oppressed people of Palestine. In his post-fight statement, he said, “This victory is for the great people of Pakistan. I am determined to continue raising my country’s name with pride.”

    Usman remains undefeated in his professional boxing career, having won all 16 of his fights so far. Out of these, 11 victories came through knockouts, highlighting his exceptional power and finishing ability in the ring.

  • Pakistan eyes digital future at CeDAR launch

    Pakistan eyes digital future at CeDAR launch

    At the heart of Lahore University of Management Sciences’ (LUMS) Science and engineering building, the Centre for Digital Assets and Regulation (CeDAR) was officially launched on Thursday, drawing leading voices from the world of crypto, venture capital and policy.

    The event marked more than just an inauguration, signalling Pakistan’s growing ambition to position itself at the forefront of digital asset innovation in South Asia.

    Speaking at the event, Mohammad Yesilhark of NOIA Capital described Bitcoin as “the fastest horse” in the race of financial assets and even called it “Islamic”.

    His remarks echoed a broader sentiment felt throughout the panels: that Pakistan, despite its economic hurdles, holds untapped potential to leapfrog into the future of finance through crypto and blockchain.

    The event featured discussions on everything — from tokenised assets to using excess electricity for Bitcoin mining. One key argument was that while countries like El Salvador and Bhutan were early adopters of Bitcoin, Pakistan’s demographic scale offers an even greater runway. With proper infrastructure and regulatory support, Pakistan could not only catch up to global competitors but it could even take the lead.

    Fiat currency was described as an “experiment” by Mr. Faisal Aftab, Zayn VC and US treasuries were critiqued for offering “negative real returns”.  Aftab noted how CPI metrics often exclude essentials like food and energy in their calculations, implying that inflation erodes gains from US treasuries, leaving investors with assets that yield losses in real terms. 

    Meanwhile, crypto, particularly Bitcoin, was presented as a more inclusive and resilient store of value which Yesilhark outlined is “capable of traversing both time and space” without the logistical hurdles of physical assets like gold. In simple terms, digital assets are more portable than existing assets in the physical plane. 

    The conference also tackled criticism often levied against crypto, including money laundering and capital flight. Mr. Humza Khan, ⁠Growth Manager at Binance Pakistan, argued that crypto, with its trackable nature, is often more compliant than traditional channels. “Capital flight is a rich man’s game,” one panelist noted, “but for average Pakistanis, crypto means accessible remittances and financial inclusion”. 

    According to Khan, banks can sometimes charge up to a 25 percent service fee of a transaction’s total value while these charges are negligible using digital asset platforms. 

    Mr. Sardar Ahmed Durrani, from Genesis Digital outlined the profitability of running a crypto mining operation, claiming large operations could generate revenues north of $8 million. If Pakistan is to build a robust regulatory framework, it won’t just help protect investors and could bring taxable income into the formal economy. 

    With officials from Binance, Zayn VC, Haruko and the State Bank of Pakistan present, the event set the tone for what CeDAR hopes to become: a bridge between policy, technology and sustainable financial innovation.

    Pakistan may have arrived late to the crypto conversation but if the energy at CeDAR’s launch was any indication, it’s ready to speak loud and clear.

  • Fawad Khan’s Bollywood comeback film banned in India: reports

    Fawad Khan’s Bollywood comeback film banned in India: reports

    Indian media has reported that Pakistani singer and actor Fawad Khan’s much-anticipated Bollywood comeback film ‘Abir Gulaal’ will not be released in the country due to tensions between the two neighbours following Tuesday’s deadly attack in held Kashmir.

    At least 26 people were killed in an attack targeting tourists in Pahalgam area of the troubled valley. 


    With Indian government baselessly alleging Pakistani involvement, calls to ban Abir Gulaal began trending on Indian social media. Many users and several film organisations also demanded strict action against Pakistani artists.

    While the film’s producers have not yet made a public statement, Indian media, citing government sources, has reported that the film will officially not be allowed to release in the country.

    While reports did not mention whether the film would release internationally or if it would face restrictions in other countries as well, Fawad and his co-star Vaani Kapoor have both publicly condemned the attack and expressed grief over the loss of innocent lives.

    Abir Gulaal was meant to mark Fawad Khan’s return to Bollywood after nearly a decade. His last film in India, Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, was released in 2016.

    Interestingly, that film also stirred controversy. Just weeks after its release, Indian Army’s Uri base in occupied Kashmir was attacked, prompting both Pakistan and India to impose cultural bans on each other’s artists and films.

    Prior to these reports, Abir Gulaal was being seen as a rare cross-border cinematic effort.

  • Rajab Butt breaks silence on returning to Pakistan

    Rajab Butt breaks silence on returning to Pakistan

    Rajab Butt, one of Pakistan’s most popular YouTubers, has expressed his desire to return to Pakistan, provided the conditions are right.

    Known for his family vlogs and headline-making statements, Rajab, in a recent podcast with Nadir Ali, opened up about his current situation and future plans.

    He recently went abroad amid ongoing legal proceedings in Pakistan. He shared his travel route, saying, “I’m heading from Dubai to Qatar, and then to London. I plan to call my family and friends to join me there.”

    He added, “I wanted to bring my family and friends to Dubai, but as you all know, getting visas for Dubai has become difficult. That’s why I arranged my friends’ visas for Qatar, and they’ve now landed there.”

    Shedding light on his legal troubles, Rajab said, “There are some cases against me, and some matters are being resolved behind closed doors. The moment I receive clearance from the higher authorities, I will return to Pakistan immediately.”

    He further added, with a mix of emotion and frustration, “If I’m allowed to bring all my money to them, and someone simply says ‘Rajab has no case against him,’ I’ll hand over everything I have. I just want peace and a clean name.”

    Rajab also issued another public apology for his past statements, saying:

    “I never meant to hurt anyone. If any of my words have caused pain, I truly apologise.”

    Talking about his emotional state, he admitted, “Yes, I’m under pressure, but my desire to return to Pakistan is still very much alive.”

    Rajab Butt faced severe backlash after launching a perfume named 295, followed by a series of controversial remarks. The uproar led to legal action and ultimately forced him to leave the country.

  • Pakistan strikes back: Shuts down Wagah, trade, airspace for Indian airlines

    Pakistan strikes back: Shuts down Wagah, trade, airspace for Indian airlines

    A day after India took extreme measures in light of its allegations against Pakistan following the Pahalgam attack, Islamabad on Thursday struck back, imposing its own restrictions besides reacting to New Delhi’s suspension of the Indus Water Treaty.

    A statement issued after a meeting of the National Security Council (NSC) under the chair of Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif, said that water was a vital national interest of Pakistan, a lifeline for its 240 million people, and any attempts to block or divert the water allocated to the country under the treaty would be considered “an act of war”.

    Islamabad also declared the military, air force and navy advisers at the Indian High Commission as persona non grata, ordering them to leave the country immediately but not later than April 30. The statement also announced limiting the number of staffers at the Indian High Commission in the federal capital to 30.

    The statement announced suspending all trade relations with India, even through a third country; and added that Pakistani airspace had been closed for Indian airlines.

    Additionally, the statement said that in light of India’s disregard of international conventions, the United Nations Security Council resolutions, and global obligations, Pakistan could also exercise the right to hold all bilateral agreements with India, including but not limited to Simla Agreement in abeyance, till India desisted from its manifested behaviour of fomenting terrorism inside Pakistan, transnational killings, and non-adherence to international law as well as the UN Resolutions on Kashmir.

    All visas issued to Indian citizens under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES), except for those granted to Sikh pilgrims, have been declared null and void, the statement read, adding that Indian nationals currently in Pakistan on such visas have been instructed to leave the country within 48 hours.

    Separately, a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) following the meeting, expressed concern over the loss of tourists’ lives in held Kashmir.

    It termed the Indian action unilateral, unjust, politically motivated, extremely irresponsible and devoid of legal merit, observing that Pakistan unequivocally condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. “In the absence of any credible investigation and verifiable evidence, attempts to link the Pahalgam attack with Pakistan are frivolous, devoid of rationality and defeat logic,” the statement read.

    The PMO’s statement further said that Kashmir remained an unresolved dispute between Pakistan and India as recognised through multiple UN resolutions.

    “Pakistan continues to support the right of self-determination of the Kashmiri people. The continued Indian state oppression, abrogation of statehood, and political and demographic gerrymandering have persistently led to an organic backlash from the people of IIOJK, which perpetuates cycles of violence.”

  • ‘Funny’ or ‘inappropriate’? Internet divided on Punjab speaker’s interaction with Hina Butt

    ‘Funny’ or ‘inappropriate’? Internet divided on Punjab speaker’s interaction with Hina Butt

    A video of Speaker of the Punjab Assembly Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan engaging in a casual exchange with Member of the Provincial Assembly (MPA) Hina Parvez Butt has made rounds on social media, with internet users reacting to it.

    During the Punjab Assembly session on Tuesday, Hina Butt, on behalf of the House, read out a resolution commending the Punjab Police for thwarting the attacks in Punjab and the border area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) launched by terrorists on March 2.

    “I want a definition from her [Hina Parvez Butt], who is the terrorist?” a member of the Punjab Assembly asked.

    In response, while she was defining the term “terrorist” with her face turned towards the members of the Assembly, Ahmad Khan interjected, “Hina, address me… I want you to look at me properly,” prompting laughter from the lawmakers.

    The Speaker’s comment left Hina Butt momentarily taken aback. After a short pause, Ahmad Khan added, “Obviously, once the member is speaking here, you have to do what I’m saying [SIC].”

    “Honourable Speaker, thank you,” she replied.

    Social media users were quick to react to the video, with some users calling it “funny”, others suggesting it was “inappropriate.” 

    One user in a post on X (formerly Twitter) wrote, “Highly inappropriate for someone holding the office of the Speaker.”

    Another user asked, “How can such a conversation take place in sacred institutions like the prestigious Punjab Assembly?”

    “I am from the Speaker’s own constituency and have known him since childhood. He is a very decent person — there’s nothing like what people are suggesting in the comments. He said that in a light-hearted, joking manner,” wrote another user.

    One of the users wrote, “Earlier, the same guy appreciated Hina Parvez Butt’s dressing.”

    Ahmad Khan had earlier during the Punjab Assembly session commented on Hina Butt’s light green dress. “Hina, you have raised the question for Kasur. I am thankful you are wearing a good dress today,” the Speaker had said when she inquired of the Parliamentary Secretary about the lack of transport service between Lahore and Kasur.

  • Khushdil Shah breaks silence on fight with fans in New Zealand

    Khushdil Shah breaks silence on fight with fans in New Zealand

    Pakistan all-rounder and Karachi Kings’ PSL player Khushdil Shah has opened up about the altercation with fans during the national team’s recent tour of New Zealand, saying he could no longer stay silent after personal insults.

    In an interview with a private TV channel, Khushdil responded to fans labelling him a “parchi” (a player selected through favouritism), saying, “I’m not the son of any cricketer or the nephew of a politician. No relative helped me get here; I’ve earned my place through hard work and performance.”

    He added that he comes from a humble background and believes critics should look at his past performances before passing judgment.

    Recalling the incident in New Zealand, Khushdil said, “I’ve tolerated abuse for years, but when it comes to my country or my parents, I can’t stay silent. If such behaviour happens again, I will respond the same way.”

    On being questioned about losing his wicket early in T20s, he defended his contributions by saying, “Sometimes my quick 25 runs win the match for the team, while even a century might not matter in other situations. I always play for the team.”

    During the third and final ODI of the New Zealand series, Khushdil Shah moved aggressively towards a group of fans but was stopped by security officials and fellow players before the situation escalated.

    According to the PCB spokesperson, foreign fans had hurled offensive and anti-Pakistan remarks towards the players.

    When Khushdil tried to intervene and stop them, the fans, reportedly Afghan nationals, responded with further abuse in Pashto and attempted to physically confront him. Following a complaint from the Pakistani team, two of the individuals were removed from the stadium.

  • ‘My contract clearly states that I can play,’ Malik tells PSL campaign critics

    ‘My contract clearly states that I can play,’ Malik tells PSL campaign critics

    Former international cricketer and current Quetta Gladiators star Shoaib Malik has addressed criticism surrounding his ongoing participation in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), saying that his contract clearly allows him to play.

    As per the details, the 43-year-old all-rounder has responded to critics by saying he is playing in accordance with the terms of his agreement and is still fit for competitive cricket.

    Despite his age, Malik remains active in franchise cricket and is currently playing for Quetta Gladiators in the PSL. However, his continued participation has raised some eyebrows — particularly after he was appointed as a mentor for a domestic team last year.

    “It’s the think tank’s job to plan. We aim to overcome previous errors and perform better. When we get the chance, we must make the most of it,” he said while speaking to the media in Lahore, adding that he would always try to fulfil the role of a mentor whenever given that responsibility.

    Malik also expressed disappointment over the selective criticism he has received. “People question my presence, but why don’t they question those players who aren’t even playing in the PSL and are sitting out? Some players care about me a lot — and I care even more about them.”

    Reiterating his commitment to the league, Malik said the PSL still needed improvement and everyone should focus on how to take it to the next level. “I can still play competitive cricket, and my fitness level remains up to the mark.”

    Looking ahead, he expressed optimism that the completion of PSL’s 10-year milestone would bring positive changes. “After ten seasons, I believe the chairman and stakeholders will work together to make the league even more impactful.”

    He also proposed structural adjustments within the league. “Franchise fees should be reduced, and players should be paid more. I’m confident that better planning will be done moving forward.”

  • ‘I will kill you’: Gautam Gambhir receives death threat

    ‘I will kill you’: Gautam Gambhir receives death threat

    Former Indian cricketer and current head coach Gautam Gambhir has reportedly received a death threat via email, just containing three chilling words, “I will kill you”.

    According to reports, Gambhir has filed a complaint at the Rajinder Nagar Police Station in Delhi and authorities have since launched an investigation into the matter.

    The Delhi Police has taken the threat seriously, and security agencies have been prompted to take swift action.

    Reports say that while no formal FIR has been registered yet, the cyber cell is actively working to trace the origin of the email. Officials are determined to identify the sender as soon as possible.

    The threat has raised concern among Gambhir’s fans and has alarmed security agencies. As a result, additional precautions are being taken to ensure his safety.

    It may be noted that Gautam Gambhir took over as the head coach of the Indian national cricket team in July last year, replacing World Cup-winning coach Rahul Dravid.

    However, since his appointment, India’s performance under his leadership had been underwhelming at least until the Champions Trophy win earlier this year.

    The email threat has added a new layer of pressure on the coach whose tenure has already been marked by scrutiny due to alleged dressing room chat leaks among other controversies.

  • ‘I met Quaid-e-Azam as a child,’ says Faisal Rehman

    ‘I met Quaid-e-Azam as a child,’ says Faisal Rehman

    Veteran Pakistani actor Faisal Rehman recently made a surprising claim during a podcast appearance.

    While speaking on a private TV channel’s talk show, he revealed that he once met Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah during his childhood. This statement left both the host and the viewers stunned.

    The actor revealed this when the host asked him about his age. With his signature charm, Faisal replied,
    “I won’t tell you my age, but I’ll give you a hint: I met Quaid-e-Azam when I was a child. You can figure out my age from that… but it’s a little less than 80.”

    He added casually, “I was very young when I met Quaid-e-Azam.”

    The claim sparked immediate reactions online, with fans expressing disbelief, amusement, and curiosity.

    While some took it as a humorous comment, others speculated whether it might actually be true, considering Faisal Rehman’s long-standing presence in the industry.

    He also opened up about a topic fans have often wondered about: his decision to never get married.

    Addressing the question directly, he explained,

    “My decision not to marry wasn’t because of a broken heart, but to avoid any interference in my life from another person.”

    Faisal, who has been admired for his timeless looks and romantic roles for over four decades, shared that although he did consider marriage in the past, he ultimately chose independence.

    “I’ve given it thought, and things even moved forward a few times,” he said. “But I realised I enjoy living freely. When you’ve lived independently for so long, it becomes hard to let someone else into your space.”

    He made it clear that he doesn’t believe marriage is wrong; it simply wasn’t the right path for him.