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  • Gen Z romance meets social justice: Tan Man Neel O Neel stands out

    Gen Z romance meets social justice: Tan Man Neel O Neel stands out

    If you thought dramas were all about love triangles and family feuds, Tan Man Neel O Neel is here to shatter your expectations—with mob chases, life lessons, and a love story sweeter than your chai.


    Tan Man Neel O Neel delivers a blend of subtle and direct messages. It tackles difficult topics like the trauma and challenges men face after experiencing and reporting sexual assault. The show also explores the social media presence of young girls and the beginnings of a wholesome relationship that might develop into love. For now, it’s all about building a healthy, strong bond.


    The story highlights how politicians can be ruthless, using someone’s tragedy for their benefit. Poor Moon is caught between Rao and Qaiser, who both exploit him. He was promised anonymity, but even after his name was revealed, he showed the courage to continue so that others don’t suffer like him.

     “48 hours mein report kerna thee, jo mein ney nahin keraai.”


    The drama educates us about the flaws in the system that might not serve sexual assault victims well. Sonu’s mother plays a key role, reminding Moon that he should not feel ashamed of what happened to him because he did nothing wrong.


     “Meray paas hajoom hai, aur hajoom ko kisi saboot ki zaroorat nahin pardhtee.” 


    Kami’s chilling dialogues highlight the dangers of mob mentality in society, a real-life issue that has led to many tragic incidents.


    Rabi and Sonu’s relationship wins our hearts with its purity and honesty. Their bond grows stronger over time, based on mutual respect and understanding. The drama shows how a relationship built on these values can be both fun and endearing.


    The plot twist connecting Rabi with Luddo and his mother adds an interesting angle. How will Ahsaan react when he sees Rabi wearing that shawl? The way Rabi’s mom deflected her sister-in-law’s wedding plans for Rabi was also a delightful scene.

  • ‘Let her be happy’: Asma Abbas slams netizens for commentary on Neelam Muneer’s marriage

    ‘Let her be happy’: Asma Abbas slams netizens for commentary on Neelam Muneer’s marriage

    Veteran actress Asma Abbas has spoken out against the unnecessary negativity surrounding actress Neelam Muneer’s wedding, asking why trolls couldn’t leave the couple alone.

    The Kahin Deep Jalay actress’s recent wedding in Dubai became talk of the town as she shared visuals from the festivities and a highlight reel of the photoshoot with her husband.

    With the wedding announcement catching fans by surprise, and leading to speculations regarding the identity of her husband, The Current exclusively reported that the groom, Mohammad Rashid, was an officer with Dubai Police’s Crime Investigation Department.

    While visuals from the photoshoot won everyone’s hearts, it also led to uncalled for debates regarding her husband’s background and nationality.

    “Today, I want to address something that has been bothering me. Pakistan’s talented and sweet actress Neelam Muneer has gotten married. She is such a beautiful soul,” Asma Abbas said in a video on her YouTube channel.

    The Ranjha Ranjha Kardi actress called netizens out for focusing on the nationality and profession of Neelam’s husband, saying there was a limit to everything.

    “There is a limit to everything. First, you questioned his nationality, and now you’re discussing his profession. Why are you so curious about her life? Why can’t people let her be happy?” Abbas questioned.

    She went on to praise Neelam for getting married at the right time and urged people to stop spreading negativity. “Please, try to be happy for others in their happiness.”

    Amid uncalled for commentary from netizens, Neelam’s wedding has highlighted the challenges celebrities face when their personal lives are subjected to public debates.

     

     Earlier, renowned Pakistani actress Neelam Muneer has finally shared her stunning photoshoot in her wedding dress on Instagram, captivating fans worldwide.

    Neelam dazzled in a beautiful red ensemble, while her husband Muhammad Rashid looked regal in a traditional white sherwani. The couple’s wedding photos have sent social media into a frenzy,  providing a glimpse into the joyous wedding celebrations of the gorgeous couple.                                                                               

    With several visuals of Neelam Muneer as a happy and radiant bride at her baraat event, she wrote in the caption, “All these years telling my heart when the time is right, all those hundreds of prayers finally came true!”

    .

    According to sources, Neelam’s husband is Muhammad Rashid, who works as an officer of Dubai Police’s Crime Investigation Department.

    Earlier, the first pictures of Neelam’s Nikah, featuring her husband, went viral on social media after being shared by celebrity photographer Abdul Samad Zia. He captioned the photos, “With this New Year, starting a ‘new chapter’ of their life, remember them in your prayers!”

    For the ceremony in Dubai, Neelam looked stunning in an all-white ensemble by local design house Baroque, paired with pearl jewelry and dewy glam makeup by Rabia Anum’s team. Her groom matched perfectly in his traditional Arabic dress, jubbah.

    In the photos making rounds on social media, the Chakkar actress was seen with her husband for the first time, posing with the world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa, in the background. However, details about the groom were not revealed.

  • Murder, mystery, and messes: Qarz-e-Jaan’s latest episode keeps fans guessing

    Murder, mystery, and messes: Qarz-e-Jaan’s latest episode keeps fans guessing

    Qarz-e-Jaan is serving us everything—murder mysteries, emotional rollercoasters, and characters who just can’t seem to stay out of trouble! At this rate, we’re half expecting a family pet to turn out to be the real mastermind. 


    The recent episode of Qarz e Jaan leaves us with burning questions: Did Ammar kill Maheen before joining the family for lunch? Nashwa seems conflicted, saying: “Maheen is dead, so are the differences between myself and Ammar,” but then she opens her heart to Burhan and lights up when he talks about reopening the case.


    No matter how much Bakhtiyar tries to cover for Ammar, he continues to create bigger messes. Ammar or his friends likely killed Maheen to ensure she never threatens him again. This act has led Burhan to reopen the case, which was almost closed before Maheen’s death. Are we naive to think Bakhtiyar is incapable of murder?


    Is Burhan Asim’s son? Or is there more to the story that will unfold as the drama progresses? The script also highlights how society, and especially a widow’s family, imposes unfair restrictions on her and judges her life choices. The conversation between Nashwa and Bisma about wearing the necklace was poignant and underscores how Bisma feels she doesn’t have the right to live a full life anymore, just because she is a widow.


    Does Burhan genuinely not know who Nashwa is? Is this all part of a greater plan, or is he truly starting to develop feelings for her?


    We expected Nashwa to hold Bakhtiyar accountable for what happened to Maheen, but she remained quiet and called Burhan instead. Maybe Burhan’s lectures about controlling her emotions are finally paying off, leading Nashwa to adopt a more measured approach rather than reacting impulsively.


    It’s a relief that the drama doesn’t portray the entire family as heartless. While Bakhtiyar and dadi might be ruthless, the mother, Sidra, shows some conscience. She wants Ammar to be punished and to learn a lesson, though even she doesn’t do much to make him realize his wrongdoings.


    Qarz e Jaan has its ups and downs. Some episodes are very strong, while others test your patience.

  • Deadlock ends as Imran allows party to submit demands in writing

    Deadlock ends as Imran allows party to submit demands in writing

    Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief Barrister Gohar Khan on Wednesday revealed that party founder Imran Khan had allowed the submission of their demands to the government’s negotiation committee in writing.

    Speaking to media persons outside Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi, Barrister Gohar said that the jailed PTI founder had also allowed the party’s negotiators to hold a third round of talks with the government even if they were not allowed to meet him prior to that. 

    The announcement marks the end of a deadlock that had been reported following second round of talks between the government and PTI. The government maintained that the PTI was hesitant to submit its demands in writing, whereas the opposition party said it would submit its demands only after meeting the jailed former prime minister.

    On being asked whether the party leadership, if invited, would head to the oath-taking ceremony of incoming United States (US) President Donald Trump, Gohar said Khan had allowed them to accept any invitations from a friendly country.

    “Imran Khan has allowed us to accept invitations extended by any friendly country,” the PTI chief said in response to the question asked in reference to unprecedented support shown for Khan by members of the upcoming federal government of the US.

    “He has also allowed us to accept the government’s invitation in case a foreign dignitary visits the country,” Barrister Gohar added.

    Commenting on an alleged deal offered to shift Khan from jail to his Bani Gala residence under house arrest, Gohar clarified that no such proposals had been presented.

    “Good contact was indeed established with government representatives before negotiation formally started. [But] neither the establishment nor [Interior Minister] Mohsin Naqvi offered to release Imran Khan or shift him under house arrest,” he said.

    It may be noted that the party chief’s statement rubbishes a claim made by Khan’s sister, Aleema Khan, who one Tuesday claimed that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister (CM) Ali Amin Gandapur had conveyed her brother the offer to shift him from Adiala Jail to his residence in Bani Gala. While she did not clarify where the offer had come from, Khan himself also previously tweeted about such an offer being made to him.

    To another question, Barrister Gohar said that the party had said “absolutely not” to the US in the past and if there was any interference, they would say so in the future as well.

  • Hulk again shows support for Palestine, Gaza

    Hulk again shows support for Palestine, Gaza

    Hollywood actor Mark Ruffalo, famous for playing the Hulk, has once again voiced his support for Palestinians while highlighting the genocide in Gaza.

    The c actor has repeated taken a stand for Palestine, this time shining a spotlight on the struggles and humanity of the people in Gaza.

    In a heartfelt Instagram post, Ruffalo shared a video by photojournalist Motaz Azaiza from Gaza, praising his efforts to show the resilience and dignity of Palestinians facing genocide in Gaza.

    “They’re not numbers, they’re not the images we see on TV, they are people with love, hopes, and dreams,” Ruffalo said in the video.

     Motaz Azaiza, who has been documenting the harsh realities faced by Palestinians, shared Mark Ruffalo’s video on Instagram expressing gratitude.

     “I spent my childhood watching Hulk, but I never imagined that one day I would receive a message of support from the actor who played hulk. Thank you @markruffalo for your support. Thank you for standing on the right side of history,” Motaz Azaiza wrote.

    Members of the campaign show their commitment to justice and peace by wearing the Artists4Ceasefire enamel pin.

    While Mark Ruffalo’s support for Palestine has changed in the past, with some earlier tweets deleted, his current message emphasizes the importance of staying united and taking action. He called on people to donate, share stories, and advocate for justice, saying, “Every action counts.”

     Earlier, American actor Mark Ruffalo, popularly known as The Hulk, has apologised for his statement which suggested that Israel is committing “genocide” in Palestine.

    “I have reflected and wanted to apologise for posts during the recent Israel/Hamas fighting that suggested Israel is committing ‘genocide’,” the actor wrote on Twitter. “It’s not accurate, it’s inflammatory, disrespectful and is being used to justify anti-Semitism here and abroad.”

    “Now is the time to avoid hyperbole,” added Ruffalo.

    The actor’s apology comes following weeks of violence on Palestinians during which Pakistani celebrities, as well as international celebrities, took to social media and came out on roads to condemn Israeli atrocities in Palestine.

    However, Mark hasn’t deleted his earlier tweets supporting Palestinians and they are still up on his account.

    Earlier in October 2020, Ruffalo had referred to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the division between the two as a “kind of apartheid” while speaking to television host Mehdi Hasan on the self-titled NBC program.

    He also accused the Israeli government of carrying out “asymmetrical warfare” against the Palestinian people, and tied in United States’ support for Israel as plainly aiding and abetting the separation and the “violence acted upon them.”

  • Multan left hanging after PCB shifts 3-nation cricket series to Lahore, Karachi

    Multan left hanging after PCB shifts 3-nation cricket series to Lahore, Karachi

    Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has shifted the venue of the tri-series between Pakistan, New Zealand and South Africa from Multan to Lahore and Karachi.

    The series is scheduled to be played out from February 8 to 14, just before the start of Champions Trophy 2025.

    The series was originally scheduled to be held in Multan but has now been shifted to Karachi and Lahore.

    According to a PCB statement, “This decision reflects the PCB’s confidence in the readiness of these upgraded venues and their ability to deliver a world-class experience for players, officials, and fans alike. Further details regarding the series will be shared in due course.”

    On the other hand, preparations for the Champions Trophy are also in full swing, for which the capacity of Gaddafi Stadium has been increased to 35,000 spectators and new seats have been installed throughout the stadium.

    480 modern LED lights have been installed in the stadium to improve the quality of broadcasts, which will provide excellent viewing quality for the fans. Two large digital replay screens will be installed next week.

    Champions Trophy 2025 is scheduled to be played from February 19 to March 9, 2025, in Pakistan and UAE.

    Want to know about Babar Azam’s contract with CA?

  • Here’s what CA Sports will be paying Babar Azam

    Here’s what CA Sports will be paying Babar Azam

    Star Pakistani batsman Babar Azam’s sponsorship deal with CA is set to bring in a hefty amount.

    The 30-year-old batsman ended his long-standing partnership with the English company Gray Nicholls on December 30, 2024. Now, he is associated with CA Sports, a cricket equipment manufacturer in Pakistan.

    Reports revealed that the former captain had signed a lucrative deal with the Pakistani brand, which included several incentives.

    CA Sports will not only pay Babar Azam 70 million Pakistan rupees annually as a bat sponsorship fee but will also give him a separate bonus for outstanding performances.

    The report says that Babar will receive an additional amount for every fifty and century, which will encourage his performance.

    70 million per year is the most lucrative contract of any batsman in the history of Pakistan cricket, which competes with similar contracts of global cricket superstars like Virat Kohli and Joe Root.

    Babar Azam parts ways with Gray-Nicolls to join Pakistani brand

    Pakistan’s batting superstar Babar Azam officially ended his partnership with Gray-Nicolls, the iconic British sports brand.

    The star cricketer is now set to represent CA Sports, a leading Pakistani cricket equipment manufacturer. 

    1735712657-U261U1AE2L.jpg

    CA Sports, known for its high-quality cricket gear, has been a long-standing favourite among domestic and international players. The move not only highlights Babar’s desire to support a local brand but also aligns him with a company deeply rooted in Pakistan’s cricketing culture.

    Fans have already started speculating about Babar’s new customized CA Sports bat, which could soon make its debut on the field. This collaboration is expected to further strengthen CA Sports’ reputation as a global cricket equipment brand.

  • Measly tariff reductions offer little relief as Pakistan turns to solar power

    Measly tariff reductions offer little relief as Pakistan turns to solar power

    Consumers of ex-Wapda power distribution companies and K-electric are to benefit from a reduced electricity tariff of up to 75 paisa per unit. According to Express Tribune, the power sector regulator reduced tariffs by up to 0.7556 rupees per unit for power distributors because of the fluctuations in fuel charges experienced in late 2024.

    In October 2024, the cut in power price for K-Electric consumers stood at just under 0.5 rupees per kilowatt hour. The tariff reduction will be adjusted in electricity bills for January 2025, giving consumers some relief. Owing to the size of the reimbursement, the effects will be more pronounced for consumers who utilise more electricity on average.

    While addressing concerns regarding the application of tariffs by power distributors, the regulator stated that the National Transmission and Despatch Company (NTDC) reported losses from transformation and transmission that add up to approximately three percent of the energy produced.

    This loss translates to about 244 gigawatt hours (GWH). While transmission losses are to be expected over long distances, they still negatively impact the profit margins of power distributors.

    However, power distributors do not produce all of their electricity themselves, which is beneficial in reducing transmission losses. This is because electricity produced closer to a specific region can supply this region first, reducing the need for more electricity to be transmitted over larger distances.

    The two key agents aiding power distributors are the vast array of net metering unit owners and independent power producers. According to data released by the power producers, net metering units provided a staggering 80.78 GWHs, while power producers in contracts with distributors produced 18.22 GWH.

    The frequent revisions in electricity tariffs, both positive and negative, create a sense of uncertainty for businesses and consumers. The large amount of electricity produced by net meter owners shows how Pakistani consumers are shifting away from the national grid in favour of solar panels, which provide them with self-reliance.

    The transition to solar power continues despite the drop in tariffs and the recent winter package to reduce costs on additional units consumed. An increasing number of businesses and individuals alike have found electricity bills to be creating cash flow problems.

    The 0.75 paisa tariff reduction pales in comparison to a staggering 155 percent tariff increase over the past three years. However, some relief is better than none at all, and for users who still have not transitioned to solar power, this move will certainly provide some respite.

  • Pakistani courts will decide Imran Khan’s fate, clarifies US

    Pakistani courts will decide Imran Khan’s fate, clarifies US

    A Spokesperson for the United States (US) State Department clarified on Tuesday that courts in Pakistan have to decide legal cases against the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Imran Khan.

    The US State Department emphasised that decisions on Imran Khan’s cases must be taken as per Pakistani law and constitution. 

    Geo News asked the US State Department about the statements often made by former special representatives to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad, and members of the US Congress, about the release of imprisoned former Premier Imran Khan.

    “We do not comment on Congressional correspondence…legal proceedings against the former Prime Minister are matters for the Pakistani courts to decide,” the US State Department said in an emailed response to Geo News.

    Zalmay Khalilzad has been vocal about releasing former Premier Imran Khan.

    Khalilzad took to X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday, writing, “#Pakistan continues to face triple crises: political (the jailing of @ImranKhan), economic (see below), and security (with intensified fighting with Afghanistan and hundreds of Pakistanis killed.  Pakistan needs a reset.  It must start with freedom for Imran Khan.”

    Following the victory of the US presidential election of Donald J. Trump, the former special representatives to Afghanistan, in a post on X in November last year, noted: “With Trump’s victory in the #USA election, how would General Assim Munir explain the ongoing unjustified imprisonment of his friend Imran Khan. It is time to release Imran Khan and others who are being held without a fair judicial process.”

    Members of the US House of Representatives, from both the Republican and Democratic parties, have repeatedly urged outgoing President Joe Biden to advocate for the immediate release of Imran Khan and all other political prisoners in Pakistan.

    On August 5, 2024, the PTI founder was arrested after his conviction in the Tosha Khana case. Khan is currently held in Adiala Jail Rawalpindi under B-class facilities.

    The US State Department spokesperson underscored the important relationship between the US and Pakistan regarding human rights. “We are in regular communication with Pakistani authorities on human rights and other key issues,” he said.

    Recently, the US had appreciated Pakistan’s efforts in reforming the economy to deal with financial challenges.

    The spokesperson of the US State Department, while speaking in a press briefing, said that the US welcomes the agreement between Pakistan and the IMF, adding, “Pakistan is taking steps to stabilise its economy.”

  • Saud continues blaming Shaan for film industry’s downfall

    Saud continues blaming Shaan for film industry’s downfall

    Lollywood actor Saud has continued his streak of blaming superstar Shaan for the film industry’s downfall.

    Appearing as a guest on Subh Samma Kay Sath hosted by Madhea Naqvi, the Mohabbat Aur Mehangai actor discussed the role of actor Shaan Shahid in the industry’s demise.

    “An industry doesn’t collapse because of one individual, it takes the action of many,” Saud said. 

    Addressing earlier comments about Shaan’s role in the film industry’s downfall, Saud Qasmi clarified, “I mentioned Shaan Shahid because he was leading the industry at that time. With leadership comes responsibility.” 

    The Baby Baji actor pointed out that talking about the downfall of the film industry doesn’t mean there’s hate.

     “Even in marriages, disagreements happen, but that doesn’t mean there enmity,” he said.

     Saud Qasmi revealed that he stopped working in films in 2005, reflecting on how the industry changed over the decades.

     “The 1950s and 60s were a golden era for Pakistan cinema, followed by a strong phase in the 80s and 90s. Actors like me and Jan Rambo contributed to its strength in the 90s but eventually, the industry weakened,” he states.

    Drawing a comparison, the Mohabbat Satrangi actor explained how Bollywood, once the strongest film industry, has been overshadowed by Tamil cinema.“Every industry in the world experiences highs and lows and Pakistan’s film industry is no different,” Saud remarked.

    Earlier, in a podcast with Ahmed Ali Butt’s Saud Qasmi, the star of many Lollywood hits, is clear about where he blames Shaan Shahid. 

    “In my opinion, several people contributed to the downfall of Lollywood. Some of these people are no longer with us. Lollywood wasn’t completely destroyed, but the damage done to it was caused by Shaan and Syed Noor,” Saud said .

    The Baby Baji actor didn’t mince his words when asked who destroyed Lollywood, clearly naming superstar Shan and veteran filmmaker Syed Noor. “There were a few other directors as well, but these two were the main ones. If they had wanted, the industry could have progressed much further. Some unfortunate individuals only focused on their own business and work, neglecting the industry itself,” he pointed out.

    He didn’t hesitate to criticize Shaan, telling him to work on improving himself first.

     “Before finding flaws in others, Shaan should address his own flaws,” Saud Qasmi remarked.

     Reflecting on the past, the former Lollywood hero shared: “There was a time when our film industry and theirs were on equal footing. I’m talking about India and Pakistan. Both industries were equal. From here, we had Waheed Murad Sahab, and from there, they had Rajesh Khanna, both of a similar caliber.”