Tag: Maya Ali

  • PEMRA fines ‘Time Out with Ahsan Khan’ Rs 500,000 for using animals as props

    PEMRA fines ‘Time Out with Ahsan Khan’ Rs 500,000 for using animals as props

    The Pakistan Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has slapped a fine of Rs 500,000 to Express Entertainment’s celebrity talk show Time Out with Ahsan Khan for using animals as props.

    Lawyer Faizullah Khan Niazi, who filed a “self-explanatory” complaint before the regulatory body on behalf of Santia Gulzar against the TV channel and show announced PEMRA’s decision on social media and shared a copy of the order.

    “PEMRA saw fit to accept my arguments and impose a fine on Express Entertainment for using animals as props for the purposes of entertainment in its show Time Out with Ahsan Khan,” wrote Niazi on Twitter.

    “The Council of Complaints (CoC) [in it’s 106th meeting] upheld the rights of animals and stopped unnecessary pain and suffering being caused to them,” added the lawyer.

    https://twitter.com/niazi_faizullah/status/1387733747433365504?s=19

    “The Council after hearing the matter was of the considered view that the treatment towards animals in this specific show caused unnecessary pain and suffering to the animals used as props in the show. Subjugating animals to such uncalled-for treatment is clearly prohibited under Article 4 and Article 9 of the Constitution of Pakistan,” read PEMRA’s order.

    Abuzar Khan Niazi, who is a Managing Partner at Lahore-based Crown Law Chambers also shared the judgment on social media, saying that the “treatment metted out to rabbits has been declared illegal and unconstitutional”.

    Chairperson Child Protection and Welfare Bureau Punjab and a Spokesperson of the Punjab Government Sarah Ahmad hailed the decision, calling it a “landmark judgement on animal rights”.

    Earlier in March, Crown Chambers had filed a complaint before PEMRA against Express Entertainment and the show for using animals as props.

    “The captioned TV show has broadcasted insensitive and reckless content committing negligence and cruelty towards animals by subjecting them to unnecessary suffering and thereby, also mentally disturbing the general public at large,” the complaint had read.

    For one of its segments, Time Out with Ahsan Khan used rabbits as props. The segment features a series of multiple-choice questions and if the celebrity answers a question incorrectly, a rabbit is placed on their lap. While some may see this as a harmless act, celebrities like Maya Ali were seen screaming out of fear. The complainant felt that this causes distress to the animal and accounts as animal cruelty.

    Meanwhile, Ahsan Khan while speaking exclusively to The Current responded to the controversy, saying: “Let me clarify. These rabbits are basically pets and the person who owns them brings them to the set. When they are on set, we make sure that they are well-fed and taken care of and are not facing any issues. They are not uncomfortable at all. The person whose pets they are keeps them indoors and they are very easy to play with.”

    “Araam say haathon main aa jaatay hain,” explained Khan.

    The actor then said that being a pet lover he is very careful with the animals on set and cares for them.

    “I myself am a pet lover,” said Ahsan. “I have dogs at home. I have cats. I also have parrots and hens and they are all like my own children. We try to provide them with comfortable environments. So naturally, we are very careful with the animals – all of us on set.”

    He further said that after the show invited backlash for “using animals as props,” he and his producer decided to avoid it.

    “My producer and I thought that if this is hurting people and they are not liking it, then we can avoid it. So we have cut out the segment in the last three to four episodes we’ve recorded,” stated Ahsan, clarifying that the ones which included the animals were shot before.

    “Although this segment is one of my favourites because this is the only one in which we discuss general knowledge, which not only educates my guests but also those who are watching the show. Whoever gives a wrong answer has to hold the pet in their lap,” he shared. It is pertinent to add here that the male guests usually enjoy petting the animals but the female guests are scared of them and often jump around screaming when asked to hold them.

    “We on our end have been very careful with handling them, but if some people don’t like it then we, including my producers and all can apologise to them,” concluded Khan. “It’s a mutual thing. If something is not right, we should look into it.”

  • Pakistani celebrities unite to demand royalties

    Pakistani celebrities unite to demand royalties

    Veteran actor Naila Jaffery’s appeal for royalties spearheaded a movement for royalties in the Pakistan entertainment industry. While initially only a handful of celebrities came forward to demand their “due right,” the movement soon gained traction with A-listers from the industry including Mahira Khan, Humayun Saeed, Adnan Siddiqui, Vasay Chaudhry, Mehwish Hayat, Mikaal Zulfiqar, Maya Ali and Ahmed Ali Butt uniting to demand royalties for their work.

    Others who are also participating in the campaign and have raised their voice for it include Yasir Hussain, Iqra Aziz, Mansha Pasha, Sakina Samo, Asad Siddiqui, Zara Noor Abbas, Armeena Khan, Kübra Khan, Bilal Abbas Khan, Yumna Zaidi and Junaid Khan.

    “Actors and producers must get royalties for their hard work. That’s no favour, it’s their right,” said Humayun.

    “In every industry, there are some rules. Some laws,” said Zara Noor Abbas. “Let’s have it set in ours too. Let’s acknowledge the ones who entertain you on the cost of their lives.”

    Asad Siddiqui said: “In tough times, solidarity is the force. We stand together, hand in hand.”

    “In the words of Irshad Kamil, ‘Sadda haq, Aithe rakh‘,” said Osman Khalid Butt.

    Mehwish said: “Royalties must be paid to artistes on all re-runs,foreign & cross platform sales as is the case everywhere else in the
    Actors on my fav show “Friends” for example make more out of royalties each yr than the original fees they were paid.”

    She also added: “Bottom line-Artists need to be valued!”

    Sharing her thoughts on the matter, Kübra said: “Not Just actors. Writers, musicians, directors.. and soo many more.”

    “In the passing years, we’ve seen some of our seniors who have ruled the industry request respect when it should’ve been their right. There are rules and regulations that set a well-run system and it’s high time we implement them so that our industry can run as smoothly as it should. Every artist deserves that,” asserted the actor.

    “It’s time to play fair,” said Sanam Saeed.

    Meanwhile, Osama Tahir, who gained popularity for his roles in Ruswai and Mushk, explained the concept of royalties and what exactly Pakistani artists are demanding.

    “Actors normally aren’t paid very well, and most times they aren’t paid on time in Pakistan (not talking about A-listers),” said Tahir. “But what channels and production companies do is that they pay you for that project (if they do), and keep selling the drama again and again to different channels and countries.”

    Elaborating his point, Tahir said: “So the least we should be offered is royalty from every show that we do. If royalties are not possible then at least pay actors well enough that they don’t rely on royalties. As it is the case, everywhere else, where there’s a thriving TV industry.”

    “Pay 100× times better or pay solid royalties… it’s not complicated,” he added.

    Later, the actor further explained: “#GiveRoyaltiesToArtists isn’t a ‘give us more money,’ it’s a right.”

    “You use us to make money many times in Pakistan and beyond, and you refuse us to ever have that conversation. Many artists have struggled and can’t make ends meet because they aren’t paid on time or at all. So pay up,” he added.

    Similarly, Ayesha Omar while explaining the concept to a social media user, said: “I think you haven’t understood the meaning of ‘royalties’. Artists are not demanding to be treated like royalty.”

    “‘Royalty’ is a fee to artists who have created or contributed to create something whenever that work is performed/used/aired,” she added.

    ‘Govt working to introduce royalty payments for artists’

    Earlier on April 12, PTI Senator Faisal Javed Khan had announced that the federal government is working to introduce a comprehensive bill to ensure that artists are given financial credit for their work.

    “Most countries around the world give royalties to artists every time a show, their work is re-run, a second time or more,” Senator Faisal had said. “Sadly in Pakistan where many artists are already underpaid, there is no policy or law ensuring that artists be given financial credit for their work.”

    The Senator further said that it is “very critical to fill the gaps and bring proper framework via amendments in legislation to ensure that our producers [and] artists get their rights to royalties.”

    Speaking exclusively to The Current on the matter, Senator Faisal said: “Royalty is very important and I am working on this bill to ensure our artists get their due right. I am hoping to get it passed soon without any further delays.”

    Asserting that the government is committed to addressing this issue, Senator Faisal said: “Actors, musicians, singers – all artists must be supported,” adding that they will soon be entitled to royalties.

  • TukTuk March: Celebrities come together for a cause

    TukTuk March: Celebrities come together for a cause

    Karachi-based NGO NOWPDP organised a ‘TukTuk March’ for individuals dealing with disabilities. The event saw several A-list celebrities in attendance including Mahira Khan, Maya Ali, Humayun Saeed, Bilal Ashraf, Ayesha Omar, Feroze Khan, Hassan Sheheryar Yasin, and Wasim Akram.

    NOWPDP is a disability inclusion initiative that works for the educational and economic empowerment of people with disabilities. According to a press release, the “TukTuk march was held to celebrate the right to livelihood and transport of people with disabilities.”

    “With inclusivity as the primary focus, the march was meant to empower people with disabilities and encourage them to pursue their rights to work and mobility,” it added.

    Strict COVID19 SOPs were followed including the wearing of masks, social distancing, and maintaining hand hygiene.

    The celebrities were spotted doing bhangra on the streets of Karachi and riding rickshaws driven by differently-abled people. As per details, the rickshaws have been modified to facilitate those who have disabilities.

    Check out pictures from the march below:

  • ‘Pehli Si Muhabbat’ brilliantly discusses the importance of consent in marriage

    ‘Pehli Si Muhabbat’ brilliantly discusses the importance of consent in marriage

    Pehli Si Muhabbat may not be high on masala and is developing slowly, rather at a snail’s pace, but it certainly comes with a strong message. The latest episode of the drama (Episode 9) sheds light on a topic often overlooked in Pakistani dramas – the importance of a woman’s consent in marriage.

    Aslam (Sheheryar Munawar) and Rakshi (Maya Ali) have finally started telling family members about their love for each other and their desire to marry. Aslam has broken off his engagement with Bushra (Hina Afridi) and has let his Mamu know that he cannot marry her. On the other hand, Rakshi’s father Faizullah (Shabbir Jan) has decided to finalise Rakshi’s rishta with his friend’s son. When he tells his wife Nargis (Rabia Butt) of this, the conversation that follows needs to be broadcast everywhere loud and clear.

    Read more – Maya Ali reveals the reason behind her television comeback

    When Faizullah tells his wife that in their riwaj and culture, girls are not consulted before their own marriage, Nargis says: “Allah nay auraton kay baaray main jo ahkamat diye hain na, unkay baaray main bhi thora sa jaan lo. Waisay tum mard bhi na baray theek ho. Deen bhi sirf mardon ka rakhtay ho. Nikkah say pehlay Allah nay beti ki marzi janana zaruri kiya hai.”

    In response, Faizullah dismisses Nargis’ comments, saying that she doesn’t know anything.

    “Allah ki kitaab na humain bhi parhayi jaati hai Faizullah. Bismillah aur Ameen toh humari bhi hoti hai,” adds Nargis before leaving Faizullah to reflect on her words.

    In a country where women are often overlooked in the rishta process and told that the elders (read: men) in their family decide their future, such scenes and conversations give the audiences food for thought and can enable the wheels of change. It is also refreshing to watch this on-screen because most dramas paint those women wanting to marry of their choice as besharam (shameless) and wanton with their end also usually terrible.

    Kudos to Faiza Iftikhar for these brilliant dialogues and to Anjum Shehzad for wonderfully executing the scene. Butt has been a powerhouse of talent throughout the episode, conversing through her eyes and body language and delivering one blazing scene after another – whether it was her conversation with Faizullah, confrontation with Niggi Apa or the way she handled Rakshi.

    Another person who is really standing out in the drama is Munawar. Sheheryar has owned Aslam to the very core and the scene in which he gives Niggi Apa a taste of her own medicine makes you cheer on him.

    Now that Aslam and Rakshi’s secret is out in the open, it will interesting to see what happens next. All I hope is that the drama starts moving faster else audiences will lose interest.

  • Ahsan Khan responds to ‘animal props’ controversy

    Ahsan Khan responds to ‘animal props’ controversy

    Ahsan Khan has responded to the controversy surrounding the inclusion of animals “as props” on his talk show Time Out with Ahsan Khan.

    “Let me clarify. These rabbits are basically pets and the person who owns them brings them to the set,” said Ahsan, while speaking exclusively to The Current. “When they are on set, we make sure that they are well-fed and taken care of and are not facing any issues. They are not uncomfortable at all. The person whose pets they are keeps them indoors and they are very easy to play with.”

    “Araam say haathon main aa jaatay hain,” explained Khan.

    Khan further went onto share the segment has been inspired by the Hop Quiz on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.

    “Basically, this segment has been inspired by Hollywood’s The Tonight Show,” said Ahsan.

    The actor then said that being a pet lover he is very careful with the animals on set and cares for them.

    “I myself am a pet lover,” said Ahsan. “I have dogs at home. I have cats. I also have parrots and hens and they are all like my own children. We try to provide them with comfortable environments. So naturally, we are very careful with the animals – all of us on set.”

    He further said that after the show invited backlash for “using animals as props,” he and his producer decided to avoid it.

    “My producer and I thought that if this is hurting people and they are not liking it, then we can avoid it. So we have cut out the segment in the last three to four episodes we’ve recorded,” stated Ahsan, clarifying that the ones which included the animals were shot before.

    “Although this segment is one of my favourites because this is the only one in which we discuss general knowledge, which not only educates my guests but also those who are watching the show. Whoever gives a wrong answer has to hold the pet in their lap,” he shared. It is pertinent to add here that the male guests usually enjoy petting the animals but the female guests are scared of them and often jump around screaming when asked to hold them.

    “We on our end have been very careful with handling them, but if some people don’t like it then we, including my producers and all can apologise to them,” concluded Khan. “It’s a mutual thing. If something is not right, we should look into it.”

    Earlier, a Lahore-based law firm Crown Chambers had filed a complaint before the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) against Express Entertainment and the show for using animals as props.

    “The said segment on the TV show, subjecting a sentient living being, an animal, to unnecessary suffering is not only an offence under the law but a breach of the constitutionally guaranteed right to life under Art. 9 of the constitution, as laid down by Islamabad high court in Islamabad Wildfire Management board Vs Metropolitan Corporation Islamabad, cited in 2021 CLC 262,” read the complaint.

    It further said: “The format of the segment involves a series of questions and answers with known celebrities as guests, who if fail to answer properly, as a “punishment” or “penalty”, are required to hold an animal or at times required to pile several animals such as petrified rabbits/pigeons etc, on their laps, causing distress not only to the animals but to the guest at times as well.”

    “Morever, it has spread the message to masses through the said TV channel that projecteing such treatmeant onto animals is acceptable.”

    The inclusion of animals on Time Out with Ahsan Khan sparked outrage after a video of Maya Ali screaming and jumping around while being teased with the rabbits went viral on social media. She had appeared on the show with Bilal Ashraf.

  • Sohai Ali Abro ties the knot

    Sohai Ali Abro ties the knot

    Sohai Ali Abro on Sunday tied the knot with Shehzar Mohammad, son of former cricketer Shoaib Mohammad and the grandson of legendary batsman Hanif Muhammad.

    While the newlyweds have not shared any pictures from their big day, pictures from their nuptials are doing the rounds on social media. The couple looked resplendent in shades of ivory and gold.

    Humayun Saeed was one of the few guests at the event and the actor shared snippets from the occasion on social media to wish the happy couple.

    “Many congratulations to Sohai and Shehzar,” said Saeed. “May Allah bless you both with lots and lots of happiness, prosperity and a lifetime of togetherness.”

    Sajal Aly also shared a lovely photo of the couple and wished them all the best for the new chapter in their life.

    “Bohat bohat Mubarak,” said Maya Ali. “Lots of love and duas.”

    Check out pictures from the event below:

  • Maya Ali refutes relationship ‘scandals’ with co-actors

    Maya Ali refutes relationship ‘scandals’ with co-actors

    Maya Ali has shut down relationship scandals with co-actors.

    Ali, who was recently seen with Bilal Ashraf on Time Out with Ahsan Khan opened up about her link ups with co-actors.

    Upon being questioned about her pairing with Sheheryar Munawar, Ali said: “When I started my journey as an actor, everyone linked me with Osman Khalid Butt.”

    “I think there’s a certain pairing that delivers a chemistry fans love or adore. Hence, they start to ship the two celebrities as couples,” said the actor.

    The Mann Mayal actor further shared: “When we were at the premiere of Parey Hut Love, people called us a ‘Filmy Jodi’ which, for me, was a compliment. But this does not mean I will limit myself to only be seen with Sheheryar. From all the actors whom I have worked with, I absolutely adore Bilal Abbas.”

    Adding onto the expectations of being an actor, Ali added, “People aren’t familiar with what goes on behind the scenes. I’ve come to the conclusion that these netizens are prepared to pen negative feedback, waiting for something to pick on.”

    “I always tell people that we are public figures, not public property. Pick on our work! Be it negative or positive, we will happily entertain you. But judge till what we show you and not beyond the lines that are set for you to never cross,” said Ali.

    The actor has recently made a comeback on our TV screens with Munawar in ARY Digital’s Pehli Si Muhabbat.

    Meanwhile, when asked by Vasay Chaudhry onhis show Ghabrana Mana hai, that if he [Sheheryar] is single, the actor quickly replied, “Yes definitely I am single.. Alhamdulillah!”

  • IN PICTURES: Fawad Khan, Maya Ali spotted at HSY’s star-studded bash

    IN PICTURES: Fawad Khan, Maya Ali spotted at HSY’s star-studded bash

    Trust Hassan Shehryar Yasin, better known as HSY, to throw a star-studded bash. The designer-turned-actor recently celebrated his drama debut and opening of his luxurious ‘HSY Mansion’ with his friends from the industry. The designer is all set to open Pakistan “largest most luxurious couture studio” for “a one of a kind bridal couture experience.” The designer also announced that he will be officially opening his studio with a solo show in March.

    The pre-event party saw all the A-listers including Fawad Khan, Maya Ali, Ali Zafar, Adnan Siddiqui, Sarwat Gilani and Ayesha Omar in attendance. Pictures from the party were widely circulated on social media. Check them out below:

    HSY recently made his acting debut with drama serial Pehli Si Muhabbat alongside Maya, Sheheryar Munawar, Rabia Butt, Saba Faisal, Nausheen Shah and Shabbir Jan. Written by Faiza Iftikhar and directed by Anjum Shahzad, Pehli Si Muhabbat is described as “an intense love story”. The OST of the drama has been composed by Ali Zafar.

  • Maya Ali, Hira Mani celebrate five million followers on Instagram

    Maya Ali and Hira Mani have crossed five million followers on Instagram. The actors shared the news and excitement on social media and thanked their fans for the love.

    “Thank you for all the five million family,” wrote Maya on social media, adding: “So grateful for all of you, and for all the love and appreciation you guys show me.”

    Similarly, Hira Mani, who recently said that she has become an official singer, announced that she has crossed five million followers on the social media application.

    Sharing a goofy picture of herself, Mani wrote: “Thank you for liking me and liking my Instagram and liking my song and liking my face and liking my kids and liking my originality.”

    “Thank you, thank you, thank you,” she added.

    Read more – The Current Ranking: Pakistani celebs and their followers on Instagram

    Meanwhile, Ayeza Khan and Aiman Khan are the most followed Pakistani celebrities on Instagram with 7.9 million followers each. Mahira Khan follows closely behind with 7 million followers.

  • Maya Ali looks back at a tough 2020

    Maya Ali, in a note posted to social media, talked about how difficult 2020 was and what she is looking forward to in 2021.

    The actor started by recounting her blessing, saying: “Dear Allah, thank you for letting us survive 2020. You have given us the biggest blessing yet, to survive another year, another opportunity to change ourselves for the better and to become better people, better Muslims and to worship you better.”

    “Oh Allah, it’s been such a tough year and a lot of us have lost loved ones, we have felt pain like no other, but being here today is a blessing indeed,” she continued. “Lucky are those who are given a second chance to change for the better, a chance to grow as people and broaden our horizons.”

    Maya further thanked Allah for giving her the opportunity to evolve.

    “Every new day is an opportunity for change, love and kindness,” she concluded.

    Ali is currently shooting for her upcoming film with Shoaib Mansoor ABG in which she will be sharing the screen with Emmad Irfani.