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  • Babar, Naseem and Shaheen dropped from second Test squad against England

    Babar, Naseem and Shaheen dropped from second Test squad against England

    Pakistan squad for the second Test match against England has been announced, and Babar Azam, Naseem Shah and Shaheen Afridi have been dropped from the team.

    Captain Shan Masood, Saud Shakeel, Abdullah Shafiq, Aamir Jamal, Mohammad Huraira, Mohammad Rizwan, Nauman Ali, Saeem Ayub, Sajid Khan, Zahid Mehmood, Haseebullah, Kamran Ghulam, Mehran Mumtaz, Mir Hamza, Muhammad Ali and Salman Ali Agha are also part of the 16-member squad.

    Sarfaraz Ahmed has not been included in the squad for the second Test match against England.

    The second Test of the series between Pakistan and England will also be played in Multan from October 15. England has a one-zero lead in the three-Test series.

  • Saudi fast food giant AlBaik to shake up Pakistan’s fast food scene

    Saudi fast food giant AlBaik to shake up Pakistan’s fast food scene

    Saudi Arabia’s renowned fast food chain, AlBaik, famous for its fried and broasted chicken, is set to challenge Pakistan’s existing fast food market. According to latest reports, the company is planning to open several restaurants across the country and is currently in discussions with government to facilitate this expansion.

    A reliable source disclosed that a memorandum of understanding (MoU) has already been signed between AlBaik Food Systems Company and Gas and Oil Pakistan Ltd (GO), the same company behind GO petrol stations in Pakistan.

    Founded in 1974 by Shakour Abu Ghazalah in Jeddah, AlBaik has grown into a beloved household name, with over 120 outlets worldwide. Its popularity is such that many Saudis prefer it over international chains like KFC and McDonald’s.

    The MoU between AlBaik and GO petroleum is part of a larger framework of 27 agreements, valued at more than $2 bn, signed between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. These agreements were finalised during the visit of a Saudi delegation led by the Minister for Investment, Sheikh Khalid Bin Abdul Aziz Al Faleh.

    Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated on Thursday that the MoUs, which focus on boostin bilateral investment, are expected to significantly boost trade and economic cooperation between the two nations.

  • Dr Zakir Naik: What a problematic man and what a controversial tour

    Dr Zakir Naik: What a problematic man and what a controversial tour

    Dr Zakir Naik spent over a week in Pakistan in a tour marred with controversies. It was as if he was not here to deliver lectures but on a spree of giving politically incorrect and problematic statements.

    The Indian religious scholar gained respect around the world for his knowledge about comparative religious studies. Seeing him quoting verses and quotations with exact references of different religious texts left people in awe of him. With growing allegations of money laundering and hate speech, he was forced to leave India and take refuge in Malaysia. The irony is that he was so afraid of his government that he said that if he had “moved to Pakistan, India would have labelled me [him] an ISI agent and used false propaganda.” Yet, in the recent visit, he kept comparing Pakistan with India, where he is not even welcome. It all started with him degrading PIA for not giving him a waiver for charges on his team’s 1000 kg luggage. However, a statement by the national flag carrier circulating widely on social media describes that his tour was sponsored by a Pakistani-Malaysian businessman and Dr Naik himself travelled via Qatar Airways, negating his claims of being a “state guest” and having talked to the CEO.

    Dr Naik then strongly condemned earning from YouTube, yet he chose to sit with Nadir Ali for a podcast and even appeared in a video with Ducky Bhai. His social media team also posts on socials, also using clickbait headlines like “Pakistani actress Yashma Gill asks Dr Zakir Naik a challenging question” or “Pathan Ladki ne Dr Zakir Naik se Pakistani society ke baray mein contradictory sawaal kia.”

    The most bizarre video that sparked a backlash on the internet was when Dr Naik was seen rebuking a young girl for asking a question which he thought wasn’t worded well. Dr Naik, with all the experience in the world, was seen being short with the girl, which left many confused. However, it was his remarks about unmarried women that exposed a chauvinistic mindset. While explaining the core idea behind men having the right to marry more than one woman ‘because they are less in number’, he went ahead to state that women who are left without a man either have to settle for a married one or they will become a “bazaari aurat” which in his words seemed to mean “public property.” He also made a public show of not sharing a stage with orphan girls by saying that they were adults and it is impermissible in Islam to have contact with them. All while standing next to them, making them embarrassingly aware of their gender. Why he could not have told the organisers ahead of time or before going on stage is still unanswered.

    Dr Naik gave another example of his misogynistic views in his interview with journalist Fareeha Idrees by saying that women, if they work, should not appear in media uncovered, arguing that this may ‘arouse men’. If seeing a woman for twenty minutes straight doesn’t provoke anything in them, then men, according to him, are “sick” and should seek a psychiatrist. Saying all of this in front of the female anchor sitting opposite him. He reiterated the age-old argument that seeking permission for jobs from men of the house is imperative for Muslim women and that it ‘takes two hands for a clap’, implying that the woman, if not wearing a hijab, prompts a man to harass her, making both of them sinful.

    His old videos have been dug out after these statements, where he is seen using controversial arguments, saying things like the marriage of a 13-year-old girl with a man as old as 120 years is viable because both can procreate. In his words, even a rapist will be pardoned if he seeks forgiveness wholeheartedly.

    If the government intended to distract Pakistanis from the ongoing situation in the country, as many have assumed was the reason why this controversial orator was invited, the tour has been a success, even though it has clearly ruined the reputation of Dr Naik.

    It is 2024 and Dr Naik’s ideologies have not evolved. Consequently, all the reverence he ever garnered is lost for good. It also brings notice to the fact that the recorded, well-prepared lectures were a mask he used to hide under while his actual orthodox ideas are revealed in the impromptu sessions he held in Pakistan. His ideas are obsolete enough to believe that women cannot be leaders and for him it is a “pity” that Muslim countries have more women leaders as ‘their best place is in their homes’. And while it cannot be ignored that a lot of people agree with the fiery preacher’s thoughts, they do not — and should not — have a place in a progressive Pakistan: one that stands on a large female workforce and should promote religious and social harmony.

  • Arslan Khan opens up about tough times on Tamasha

    Arslan Khan opens up about tough times on Tamasha

    Actor and model Arsalan Khan’s journey on Tamasha 3 was full ups and downs, but he ended up as the first runner up of the show.

    Known for his introverted personality, Khan faced many challenges in Tamasha season 3.

    Recently Arslan and his wife Hina Khan appeared as a guest on ‘Gup Shup with Fuchsia, where he talked about tough times in the reality show.

    When asked if he understood the impact of being on the show,

    Arslan admitted, “No, I didn’t have much idea that this was going to be so hard because, honestly, you can’t imagine it until you’re in that situation. I had seen the last show, but it looked fun. The thing is, fights can be very entertaining for the public. Obviously, there are arguments happening, but they take a very bad toll on our minds. I used to get so consumed by the fights there, and the kind of arguments and words used were intense.”

    Reflecting on the intense environment of the show,

    Arslan said, “It was so bad that if you heard the censor beep, you would realize how harsh the personal attacks were, and the language people used. The kind of actions people took were alarming. The Badashah salamat (Adnan Siddiqui) said that they were trying to respect you, and generally, I think it was important for the team that they had to come out of it. They maintained respect and reputation for themselves. So, I would like to congratulate them because people had forgotten that we have to come out of the show, and we have our lives here as well. They think that just by going in, they wouldn’t have any responsibilities, and they would show whatever they wanted.”

    “As for me, I am a fan of Adnan Siddiqui. Siddiqui is very senior, and I really look up to him. The way he carries himself is unbelievable. His style, everything from his watch to the way he dresses and speaks, is very soft-spoken. Naturally, I am also a bit soft-spoken, so I feel that connection. He balances everything so well, giving leverage when needed and being strict when necessary. I absolutely love him and really look up to him. He always gave advice and explains in a way that you could grasp easily,” Arslan added.

  • Weekly inflation slows as prices of eight essential items drop across local markets

    Weekly inflation slows as prices of eight essential items drop across local markets

    Short-term inflation in Pakistan has somewhat eased, as the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) reported a decrease in the prices of eight essential items.

    According to data collected through the Sensitive Price Indicator (SPI), weekly inflation was recorded as 0.8 per cent lower on a weekly basis. However, SPI-based inflation increased by 12.74 per cent on a year-on-year (YoY) basis.

    The SPI tracks price movements of key items on a weekly basis. In the week ending on October 10, the prices of 15 items increased, while the prices of 8 items decreased compared to the previous week. Moreover, the prices of 28 items remained unchanged during the week.

    These prices were collected from nearly 50 markets across Pakistan.

    The most prominent reductions were observed in the prices of tomatoes, which saw a decline of over 19 per cent. Prices for bananas, sugar, pulse mash, and chicken were also recorded lower.

    However, a notable increase was seen in the prices of onions, wheat flour, pulse gram, and potatoes.

  • Iffat Omar calls Imran Khan Pakistan’s biggest cricket superstar

    Iffat Omar calls Imran Khan Pakistan’s biggest cricket superstar

     
     Imran Khan, Pakistan legendary cricketer-turned politician, is best known for leading the national team to victory in the 1992 Cricket World Cup.
     
    During a recent episode of Say It All With Iffat Omar, actor and model Emmad Irfani reminisced about growing up during the Imran Khan era. 
     
    Emmad said, “I was quite a lucky child, I had a very good atmosphere at home, my father was posted at GHQ, and I spent my formative years there. Imran Khan, his personality, his charm, he was like the David Beckham of the 80s. His impact went beyond sports, he became a global icon. And during 80s, seeing Pakistan bloom and grow really shaped my passions and thought processes.”

    Host Iffat Omar also praised Khan, aaying, “Imran Khan is the biggest star Pakistan has ever produced, and that’s a fact. Whenever his Pepsi ad aired, we would sit down and watch it every single time it came on.”

    Currently Emmad Irfani is starring in Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum where he plays the character of Adeel and the drama is written by Farhat Ishtiaq and directed by Badar Mehmood.
    The drama airs every Monday and Tuesday at 8:00 PM on ARY Digital.

  • Hina Dilpazeer surprised to find out Anil Kapoor is her fan

    Hina Dilpazeer surprised to find out Anil Kapoor is her fan

    Actress Hina Dilpazeer shared a surprising revelation during a recent interview, stating that Bollywood star Anil Kapoor is a fan of her work.

    Recently, she appeared as a guest on the show ‘Zabardast’, where she talked about how a Bollywood actor admired her.

    “Bollywood actor Anil Kapoor, after watching my drama ‘Quddusi Sahab Ki Bewah,’ appreciated my work and invited me for a project. There were talks about an Indian film as well, but due to the political situation between the two countries, I couldn’t take on the project. If another offer comes, I will work there,” she states.

    Hina also described a bitter experience from a private award show, which later turned into a heartwarming moment.

    Narrating the incident, she said, “Once, I was invited abroad with the promise of receiving an award at a show, but the award was later given to someone else.”

    She continued, “I can never forget the humiliation I felt at that moment. But later that night, as everyone was returning with their awards, the hotel lobby was filled with my fans, including mentally and physically challenged children who loved my character ‘Momo.’”

    She further shared, “At that time, I wasn’t wearing ‘Momo’s’ signature glasses, so a child gave me his glasses in fear and hid behind his mother. I wore those glasses and performed as Momo for the children. Seeing the smiles on their faces instantly cooled my anger. I forgave everyone who mistreated me, and asked Allah for forgiveness because maybe He brought me abroad for this purpose.”

  • Doraemon ke awaz khamosh hogayi: Woman behind the voice passes away

    Doraemon ke awaz khamosh hogayi: Woman behind the voice passes away

    A Japanese actor who was the voice of “Doraemon”, a cartoon cat robot beloved by children in Japan and other countries has died, her agency said Friday. Nobuyo Oyama was 90.

    For a quarter of a century until 2005, Oyama lent her endearingly hoarse voice to the titular blue feline from the 22nd century with his “magic pocket” and its supply of fantastical gadgets, including a door that lets you travel anywhere.

    She “passed away on September 29 due to old age”, her talent agency told AFP. Her funeral was attended by close relatives, it said.

    “Doraemon” is still on air as one of the longest-running Japanese anime series, popular across Asia and farther afield.

    While Oyama’s successor has played the role for nearly two decades, her voice remains the definitive sound of the robot for many who grew up hearing it.

    In “Doraemon”, the cuddly robot cat with its huge smile travels back in time to help a lazy schoolboy called Nobita overcome the trials of everyday life.

    Created by the artist Fujiko F. Fujio, the character first appeared in manga strips in 1969, making the transition to the small and big screen over the following decades.

  • Saba Qamar joins UNICEF as Pakistan’s first national ambassador for child rights

    Saba Qamar joins UNICEF as Pakistan’s first national ambassador for child rights

    Actress Saba Qamar has been appointed UNICEF’s first national ambassador for child rights in Pakistan.

    The announcement was made on the International Day of the Girl Child, on October 11 2024.

    Saba said, “I am honored to join UNICEF and support their mission to ensure every child’s rights.”

    Abdullah A. Fadil, who is serving as the Representative for UNICEF in Pakistan, tweeted: “Delighted to announce that Saba Qamar will join the UNICEF family as the first National Ambassador for Child Rights. Together we can make an even bigger difference in the lives of all children in . Welcome onboard @s_qamarzaman Thank you for sharing your powerful voice.”

    While talking to Independent Urdu, Qamar said, “I have been in Karachi for three days now, and I visited a place where I met young girls, children, and women. I was happy to see that UNICEF has done a lot of work there, providing proper medicine and education. However, I still feel that these children need clean water and a safe environment. For this, I need the support of my nation and my people. When we work together, we can bring about change.”

    The Serial Killer actress emphasized the importance of using her voice and platform for positive change, stating, “I believe we, especially as actors, are blessed people. Allah has given us everything, fame, name, and most importantly, a voice that people look up to. They want to see us and hear from us. If we talk about these issues and want to bring about change, they will support us.”

    Saba also highlighted the urgent need to change the mindset surrounding child marriage, particularly in regions like Sujawal (Sindh).

    “At this stage, children need love, security, and a sense of identity. If you marry off a child at this age, what will happen to her future? After a year or two, these girls become pregnant, and they face various complications during pregnancy that only they understand”, Qamar added.

    Saba also said, “I met a girl named Anam who told me she was about to get married, there was a fire in her eyes, and I was so impressed by how UNICEF is raising awareness and educating these children. They are providing education centers, medicine, and teaching about good touch and bad touch, among other things.”

    However, Saba acknowledged that many more areas in Pakistan need support and change saying, “I am happy to see how many girls are coming forward. Each girl represents a society, a family. When we educate one child, imagine how much change we can bring to society. I have seen a group of girls who had confidence, a fire in their eyes, and a desire to bring about change. They understood the difference between right and wrong, good and bad touch, and even spoke English. I was impressed that such positive change could happen in a small area like Sujawal.”
    In Pakistan, child marriage is a major problem, with around 19 million girls married before the age of 18. Many of these girls faces serious health risk due to early pregnancies.

    Across the border, Bollywood star Kareena Kapoor has also been appointed as UNICEF India National Ambassador for Child Rights on May 4, 2024.

    Here is the tweet shared by Abdullah A. Fadil:

    Here is the post shared by Saba Qamar:

  • Pakistani players should watch ‘Lagaan’ movie for motivation: Ahmed Shehzad

    Pakistani players should watch ‘Lagaan’ movie for motivation: Ahmed Shehzad

    National cricketer Ahmed Shehzad has advised the Pakistan cricket team to watch the famous Bollywood hit ‘Lagaan’ after its stunning defeat against England in the first Test.

    Talking on his YouTube channel, he said, “Pakistani players should watch ‘Lagaan’ movie for the spirit because the Pakistan Cricket Board has to spend money from their pocket, and you people have no idea about the honour of the country. Take a bowler like Kachra (A bowler in the Lagaan movie) who dismissed England players because our spinners don’t have leisure with chai pani.”

    “Any team coming on the Pakistani home ground is beating them, and we are witnessing a historic defeat against Bangladesh for the first time, followed by a poor performance against England. Changes in the team have become inevitable as social media can no longer fool the nation; the selectors and the chairman will have to give young players a chance,” he said.

    Pakistani team is in its worst form, getting defeated by a smaller teams like Bangladesh on their home ground. Now England beat them in the first test match by an innings and 47 runs in Multan.