The appeal of Humsafar is obvious. You could cut through the weird chemistry between Khirad and Ashar, the hero authors of romance novels would be envious of. Eye candy, nakedly sexual, he stares arduously at his love interest with desire that would give the Grammarian and the Aisha Bawany schoolgirl goose bumps. He is clean cut. He smiles infrequently and when he does, it seems as if it were a gift. Physical contact is at a minimum. Sex is implied, and there is a chastity reminiscent of Zia-era dramas that drives people insane with tension. [[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JB0HEt8vOBY]] Khirad on the other hand, played by the cherubic Mahira with bright makeup, and translucent skin, appears surprisingly asexual -- the recipient of the man's desire, derision, and disdain - not interfering too much with the screen appeal of Ashar, with nice beauty, but insipid enough to not be threatening to female viewers. She is also surprisingly silent, when all you want is for her to sit him down and feverishly explain the terrible misunderstanding the entire infuriating play is constructed on, over a cup of coffee or a glass of vodka. If Khirad's father taught her such great values, why was her marriage into an affluent family (mild protestations notwithstanding) and its inevitable accompaniments -- an abusive mother-in-law, and a passive aggressive unpredictable husband -- the only way to material security? Her mind that works faster than a calculator could also have landed her a PhD stipend at the University of Punjab where she could have raised her daughter modestly, but well. If not, then perhaps a junior analyst position at Engro where she would have adequate medical coverage for her child. And if not that, there could be situations around inflation and lack of opportunities. Eventually, she could have met a man less verbally challenged than Ashar and they would have actual conversations instead of old words reverberating in their heads like bipolar memories. In fact, what Khirad's father taught her was the hegemonic values - where honesty is inextricably entwined with being a good wife and a submissive, self-denying woman whose moral sexuality is her ticket to livelihood. The house is central to the play. It is luxurious. It has a swimming pool (virginal) in the background, and tasteful art. It is sterile, hotel-like, and it’s the woman's object of ultimate attainment. Khirad got thrown out, and in a scene that played cruelly on all women's insecurities, we are shown that what capitalist patriarchy giveth, it taketh if you can't abide by bourgeois society's moral ethics. Underlining Khirad's dramatic eviction from the house is the fact that she did abide by these ethics and is of unblemished character. It is she of moral purity who deserves the house rather than the manipulative mother-in-law. [[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FxJlRborD28]] In an earlier episode, it is the mother-in-law who is threatened with eviction if she does not agree with her husband's decision to respect his dying sister's wish. But the mother-in-law's non-nuanced evil aside, isn't it troubling that women despite age, motherhood and having maintained homes are always on the verge of losing it all -- always at the whim of later apologetic, yet unapologetic men? Sadly, after this they have to rely on puppeteering their sons for personal fulfillment. Note that the mother-in-law has a possibly satisfying career in an NGO - but this worldly fulfillment fades in comparison to the infinite delights of tormenting her child. If Khirad had not submitted happily to Ashar's gradual advances, and had asserted sexual autonomy or indifference, then what? When she does give up on him, it is because he is weak and could not protect her. But imagine a Khirad who is coming of age and is actually exploring multiple, conflicting sexual emotions towards her cousin-husband and maybe even her classmate, and later, raising her child as a single mother and meeting a man of her choice? But this would, of course, mean complexity and a screenplay that does not rely on overly simplistic archetypes. Functioning within the confines of patriarchy, Khirad cannot lose her chance of reunion with Ashar by responding to any other man in her four and a half years as a single woman. Playing on scenes in Bollywood, where the woman's purity is depicted through devoted, childlike prayer as the male voyeurs, here too in Episode 19, Ashar is shown after Khirad has vulnerably bared it all before her God. Ashar, too, stays pure. But promiscuity will not cost him a home. His celibacy (and virtual impotency) is affirmation of his unattainability. No wafer (think vamp) like Sara sink her claws in him. Sara's character, again, is monosyllabic evil. And the fact that she runs the show at corporate HQ when Ashar is in the doldrums is not commendable, but rather evidence of her manipulative abilities. That she uses yoga to keep herself grounded in her evil designs is yet again weird social commentary as is her always western attire. And since the drama is PG, we never see Ashar succumbing to Sara's advances (though it would add a twist and a moral dilemma) despite being in hotels together and constantly in each other's homes. The terrible appeal of Humsafar is that it confirms characters and stories set in deeply patriarchal frameworks. It is sexist justice that soothes the hearts of patriarchal vigilantes, and keeps us on because we want to see the mother-in-law shamed, humiliated and thrust out, and moral purity rise to the top in the reunion of Khirad and Ashar.  It is a modern day fairy tale, better than Cinderella, worse than Shrek; the born again revival of TV drama in a tweeting world. This blog was originally published here. Read more by Abira here. Follow her @oil_is_opium.

The most popular show in the history of Pakistan television (with a TRP rating of 7.6) came to an end on Saturday, and the whole country went crazy. It was only when the electricity at my house suddenly went at 8:05 that I realised that I was a a Humsafar fan girl.  I called KESC begging them to restore the electricity. Why? Because I had to watch the last episode of Humsafar. My pleas however fell on deaf ears and I had to convince my family to go to our uncle's house so that we could find out if Ashar and Khirad live happily ever after or not. What exactly makes this show so popular? Honestly, even a crazy fan girl like me can admit that the story is typical. It is a simple tale of a "maasoom" girl and a rich handsome prince, with lots of evil characters to add some spice, but despite the predictable story and characters I was still hooked. Of course the cast played a huge part. No female in Pakistan could get enough of Ashar, played by the very talented and good looking Fawad Afzal Khan while all the boys had eyes for our VJ turned actresses Mahira Khan (Khirad) and Naveen Waqar (Sara). The romance was sizzling, the chemistry between the lead characters worth praising. Every time Ashar would hold Khirad's hand, I felt like I was a kid watching a scene out of a fairy tale  where the prince would sweep the princess in his arms and give her a kiss.  All this worked well because of good direction, dialogues, producer’s input and of course the amazing OST by Quratulain Balouch. [[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BsrAAXAozec]] “The perfect ending” that we got to see on Saturday made it the best finale I have ever seen on Pakistani television. The last scene was pure magic! Ashar and Khirad stared in to each others with intense love. The scene made up for all the episodes where they were apart. I always wished that Farida (Atiqa Odho) the villain of the show would meet her just desserts and I'm glad that she got what she deserved. However, I have to say the play humanized her in the scene in which Ashar expressed unconditional love for his mother.  When Farida looked at her granddaughter and called her a 'fairy' I almost had tears in my eyes. [[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JcDPukH4OBM&feature=related]] I also wanted Ashar to kill Khizar but that didn’t happen, so much for wishing for an evil character’s death. Sara, crazy and psychotic though, was missed in the last episode and it was actually nice to see her haunting Farida in the end. All in all, Humsafar has taken our  industry to a whole new level and started a new era in our drama industry. The team did a brilliant job and ended the show in great style, pleasing audiences country wide. The live transmission after the last episode just added to to my excitement. [[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E-Ch6wbZH1U&feature=related]] However now that it has ended, I seriously don’t know what to do - I guess I’ll just wait for another show to turn into Humsafar and till then enjoy watching Mata-e-Jaan, a new drama on Hum TV that looks very promising. [[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wS_mPLYIhXA&feature=related]]    

To claim that "Ashk" (formerly referred to as "Bandhan" throughout Facebook) was one of the most highly-awaited drama serials of this season would be understating the actual hype surrounding it. Avid fans were almost counting minutes to the time the first episode would go on air. After director Sarmad Khoosat’s mega hit, "Humsafar", expectations had rocketed, and "Ashk" was supposed to be ‘the one’ – the season’s best of the best. So what actually transpired when the serial actually started? Here are my top picks for the highs and the lows of "Ashk"!

The highs!

The lows!

‘They don’t like this serial because they are comparing it to "Humsafar"’.

After "Humsafar", expectations for any work involving Sarmad Sultan Khoosat were high, and seemingly impossible to fulfil. How does one compete with a phenomenon, especially one you created yourself? The answer was apparently simple ─ "Shehr-e-Zaat". This isn't "Humsafar", but it is a tour de force in its own right. It is yet another bright feather in director Sarmad’s cap. The story, written by Umera Ahmad, is a difficult concept to bring to the screen. What might be a deeply insightful work on paper can seem bland and heavy handed on screen. 7th Sky and Hum TV have done an admirable job, the production values are flawless. This is a serious drama. It demands our attention, pushes us out of easy assumptions and, yes, it can be uncomfortable to watch, yet it catches hold of the viewer just like its beautifully haunting Original Sound Track (OST) "Yaar Ko Humne Ja-baja Dekha" sung by Abida Parveen. You hear the music in your head; the lyrics are unsettling in a strange way and you begin to wonder …What does it all mean? Mahira Khan essays the lead role of Falak with surprising ease. It should silence her critics, and for those who it doesn't silence, well, there is little that can actually satisfy them. She has grown as a performer and I am hard put to think of anyone else in this role. She owns it. Mahira manages to make what is a very unsympathetic, self-centred and vain character, seem vulnerable and empathetic despite her flaws. Falak's beauty, her wealth and social status have blinded her to the realities of this world. She despises ugliness and cannot see the human beings hidden by the grime of poverty. Her accidental meeting with Salman Anser is poetic justice. The object of her sudden affections, Salman Anser , is already in a desperate love affair with himself and has little time for Falak. Undaunted, through shameless persistence she cajoles him into marriage. Mikaal Zulfikar has given a masterful performance in his role. There is very little that can be called heroic about the character he plays, but Mikaal lends a certain charm that Salman hardly deserves. This is nothing new for Mikaal, who seems to excel at playing 'La Belle Dame Sans Merci'. Apart from the lead protagonists, every actor has given their best ─ Hina Bayat, Samina Peerzada and, of course, Mohib Mirza, who has done a simply outstanding job as Humza, Falak’s best friend and would-be suitor. I simply must mention Mansha Pasha, Falak’s friend Rushna, who is like a breath of fresh air every time she is on screen. The heart of the story is about spiritual awakening. A sharp contrast is drawn between the Sufi concepts of ishq e haqeeqi, the love of a human for God, and ishq e majazi, the love of a human for another human ─ not an easy accomplishment.

"Aap ne mujh pe zulm keeya hai, mummy," (you have been cruel to me, mummy) screams a tormented Falak. “Aap ne mujhe Allah se pyaar karna nahin sikhaaya!” (you did not teach me to love Allah!)

Is it just me or does anyone else find this drama seriously annoying? I sometimes do get the feeling that it's just me.  The comments I see online about Hum TV's Shehr-e-Zaat, show that the viewers applaud the lead character in the drama, Falak, for her new-found piety and shunning of the material world and its pleasures, while always looking peaceful. For those who have not been enlightened with the story of the drama (I myself have not yet watched the last episode), Shehr-e-Zaat is the story of beautiful, rich, young Falak, affectionately known as 'Fifi' and thus inferring the bourgeois lifestyle that goes along with such a nickname. She is an art student, and while leading on her best friend Hamza, who is madly in love with her, she makes a sculpture of her ideal man's face, and lo and behold, he appears into her life. This sculpting exercise is causing constant friction between Fifi and her know-it-all Naani who hates all this kufar nonsense about making 'idols'. So Fifi and Salman (the sculpture-face guy), also from a rich family, get married to each other and have the wedding of the century. Salman never claims to love Fifi and tells her straight out that he is not the affectionate kind. Salman eventually has an affair with an unattractive, illiterate woman, crushing Fifi. He is so in love with her that he marries her, leaving everyone shocked. Fifi goes back to her parents' home, and under the influence of Naani dearest, proceeds to blame all her problems on the fact that she 'forgot about Allah (SWT)'. Where do I begin? Firstly I am, to no end, appalled by Fifi's terrible behaviour towards her mother, who is by far the only sensible person in this entire drama. The mother is a socialite and therein lies her cardinal sin. Throughout the drama, we only see her vie for the best for her child. However, because she is a socialite, of course she is evil. Fifi throws many a fit directed at her mother and blames her for not 'teaching her how to worship/love Allah (SWT)'. Our dear viewers just lapped this up and supported Fifi for finally 'seeing the light'. Firstly, Fifi blames her problems on her mother, arguably the only person who loves her, and secondly, ignores the misery her mother is going through on her behalf, making her feel guiltier every day about what has come to pass. What a terrible idea to promote! Did the producers of this show forget the teachings of Islam and our beloved Holy Prophet (pbuh) here? A mother, as our religion teaches, deserves the utmost respect; she should be treated as though heaven lies beneath her feet. Yet, the idea promoted here is that if your mother isn't a religious person and likes her friends, it is perfectly commendable to treat her like dirt. I am sorry to burst your bubble all those who worship this show, but it is insulting to the beautiful image of Islam to show that it is okay for a daughter to treat her mother as so. Ever wondered what kind of a message we are conveying to our children by applauding Fifi's behaviour towards her mother? Let's not forget Naani dearest, the worst of the lot, with her patronising voice, expressions and medieval ideas. She is against divorce, and encourages Fifi to be as fervently religious as possible, claiming that in this alone will she find the answers to everything that is wrong with her. She is a great favourite of the viewers ─ someone that makes my skin crawl. Whether or not Fifi had been a panj-waqta namazi (a person who prays five times a day), would have had no bearings whatsoever on Salman and his passion for his new girlfriend. Preaching to the viewer that praying will avoid all the heartache in life is not only wrong, but misleading. Yes, prayer is important, but to say that by doing so, life will be all peaches, is wrong to say in the least. Hurdles in life are a test by Allah (SWT) and this is the idea that should be promoted. Prayer is a way to calm the effect of these the troubles life throws at you. It gives you the patience to overcome hurdles. Viewers may get the wrong idea here and be very antagonistic if the expectation is drilled in their heads that if you pray day and night, life will not deal you a bad hand. Let me remind the readers that there was none so pious as our Holy Prophet (pbuh) and he faced his fair share of grief during his life. It is not that he didn't pray, it's just that this is how God tests us. It is called aazmaaish, and it shouldn't be treated like the wrath of God. Propagating this false idea is highly immature and unprofessional. While I believe that the drama is executed well and the depth of the characters is commendable, I feel as though the themes picked up by this story (especially religion)  have been played upon in the most distasteful ways possible. Leading such a impressionable population to believe in a slanted version of Islam is unethical and the producers should have known better. Moreover, as far as saying 'Allah behtar jaanta hai' (God knows best) to every problem faced, of course He will help you, but then again, He only helps those who help themselves. [poll id="227"]

Remember that time you were sitting at a restaurant, having a conversation with a friend and you felt your mind drifting away? You start taking things around you in; the environment, the people. You start wondering what the woman next to you was thinking when she decided to wear that particular outfit or how the couple on your left must think they look great together, when they just don’t. There now, there is no need to pretend to be ‘holier than thou’, we’ve all done it. After years of careful observation, I decided to come up with a list of my own; a list of people I would like to see together this Valentine’s Day, a day when the air is filled with love (and hearts) and nothing can bring your spirits down because you know it’s all about love today – just you and that special someone. (Cheesy, I know) Since ‘I don’t want no drama from your mama’, I have picked a safe-bet and chosen celebrities from Hollywood, Bollywood and Lollywood to mix and match together. Here are eight of my favourite heartthrobs I would pair with gorgeous females that aren’t me: 1) Leonardo DiCaprio and Mahira Khan I don’t really think I need to elaborate on this one. They’re both great actors and from what I’ve been told by people who’ve met them (yes I know people who’ve met Leo) and from what I’ve read, they are ridiculously charming, modest and friendly. If Mahira can give Leo the chance, this couple is sure to melt the silver screen. 2) Ranbir Kapoor and Blake Lively Good looks galore! Even though I’m not really a big fan of Ranbir, unlike creepy stalkers who camp outside his house just so they can watch him enter and exit... for hours, I appreciate good looking men when the need calls for it. Blake with her fun, yet sultry presence and Ranbir with his charm and boy-next-door appeal, would definitely make quite an interesting couple. Let Kat go Ranbir, Lively is the way to go for you! 3) Sheheryar Munawar Siddiqui and Emilia Clarke Now now, don’t go grabbing your pitchforks yet. Emilia Clarke or commonly known as The Great Khaleesi from Game of Thrones (GOT), has been a fantasy for many men who are avid followers of the GOT. Hey, if I was a guy, I would totally go for her! With Sheheryar’s good looks, charm and fun personality coupled with her sex-appeal and desirability factor, this celebrity couple would make the boys and girls go loco. Both possess a real fire and passion for what they do, and I have no doubt that they would make a striking couple. 4) Ranvir Singh and Lady Gaga My masterpiece (sarcasm intended)! I will admit that Ranvir looked quite ‘hot’ in his recent movie Ram Leela and worked extremely hard to get that body but I’m sorry, when you’re going to cover it up with your atrocious dressing sense and commit fashion faux pas every now and then, it’s just unfair to our eyes. Making a statement is one thing but wearing ‘jazzy’ camouflage suits and chequered trousers with caramel hair is another. But I will say one thing, the guy has confidence to think he can pull it off and sometimes he does. Lady Gaga, on the other hand, has been known for her ‘edgy’ sense of style. From the cow meat dress to the Hannibal Lecter face cage, she has been on a roll when it comes to taking risks and making fashion disasters. Therefore, the commonality between these two is the absolute nonsense they wear ever so confidently, they might as well go out. I would advise audiences to guard their eyes this V-Day. 5) Ian Somerhalder and Syra Yousuf Syra can easily be one of the prettiest girls on TV screens right now. And well, Ian Somerhalder, need I say more? Those eyes, his deadly looks paired with her piping good looks and bubbly personality- this is one celebrity couple I myself would be happy to watch. I do admit though, the thought of this couple transpired purely because they would have some superbly good looking kids! 6) Fawad Khan and Deepika Padukone These are one of my favourites from Lollywood and Bollywood. Being a fan of Fawad from his EP days, I personally think he’s quite a looker. And Deepika with those legs and her envious dress sense has caught the eyes of many. It’s about time Deepika cuts loose her secret ‘edgy’ Ram Leela and goes for someone more her type. Your Ram awaits you in Pakistan, Leela! 7) Hamza Abbasi and Ainy Jafri Come on, it’s totally possible! Regardless of Hamza’s tad bit over-acting in Waar, one cannot deny that he is very cute and a good actor occasionally. Ainy has caught the eye of many with her recent appearances in serials and advertisements. Don’t be biased, just look at them; they definitely make a very pretty couple. 8) Ali Zafar and Nargis Fakhri I know many probably thought I would pair him with Katrina, but after the Mobilink commercial, featuring the two stars, I thought ‘hey, why not?’ He has the voice, good looks and charm, and Nargis, well she definitely has... umm... the lips. So there you have it, my list of celebrities I would have loved to see together this Valentine’s Day, dining away amidst candle light and floating lanterns. PS: Ryan Gosling has not been added to this list because I could not bear doing that to myself.

Pakistan is in the grips of political turmoil, rampant corruption, fuel shortages and the threat of terrorism, yet the resilience and courage of its women are nothing short of remarkable and awe-inspiring.   On International Women’s Day, I felt it was appropriate to commemorate these inspirational women who, despite adversity and hardship, strive hard to shine a positive light on Pakistan’s splintered image. They make Pakistani men and women proud and, in turn, teach us all how to stand tall in the face of troubles and strife. Starting from bottom to top, my 10 most inspirational Pakistan women from 2014-15 are: 14) Ainy Jaffri [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Twitter[/caption] The green-eyed beauty who graced our TV screens in 2010 with her stunning presence, is not only beautiful to look at but is also the voiceover for the Burka Avenger, a televised cartoon series that airs on Nickelodeon Pakistan. The show centres on a superhero, draped in a burka, who avenges those who commit criminal activities; a character who doesn’t take any nonsense despite being covered from head to toe. In February 2015, the program was nominated for an International Emmy Kids Award, a huge accolade and one that no other Pakistan-based programme has been nominated before. Ainy looked stunning in a Sana Safinaz gown when she attended the ceremony and, despite missing out on the award, shone the light for Pakistan and its creative talent. 13) Shaheena Waqar Born in Risalpur, Shaheena Waqar established an organisation known as the Women Aid Trust, along with two other friends, in 1997. Through this organisation, she has been able to help women in prisons by teaching them different skills and educating them so they may be able to sustain themselves once they return to the real world. She believes that this exercise helps build a sense of community amongst these women, who have been convicted for some petty crime, thrown away in prison and now feel dejected and lost. By providing them computer classes, sewing centres and recreational institutes, Waqar is able to produce in them the motivation they need to rebuild their lives. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="450"] Photo: Shaheena Waqar[/caption] Her cause is not only noble, but effective as well and we all should be proud of having people like her in our midst. 12) Mahira Khan [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Mahira Khan (L) and Shahrukh Khan[/caption] Just as it seemed as if the dust had settled on the Humsafar craze in Pakistan, our neighbours also became fanatics for the drama serial and it skyrocketed Mahira’s fame beyond our borders. After a highly publicised PR event in India, news emerged that Mahira would be starring opposite the maestro of Bollywood, Shahrukh Khan, in a movie titled Raees. It seems that her popularity has seeped through into India and we will be seeing a lot more of the starlet in the future. She will shine the beacon of light for Pakistan within India’s bustling entertainment industry. 11) Naila Jamall Aladin Naila Jamall Aladin is known for her tireless work to establish The Learning Tree School, which found its roots in 2000. What is unique about this school is that it incorporates diversity – it doesn’t just focus on education, it helps children groom themselves for what’s coming ahead. The school caters for all students, including those who have special needs, and helps them understand their strengths and weaknesses so they may fare better. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="323"] Photo: Naila Jamall Aladin[/caption] This school instills in its students the idea of giving back, helping the community and benefiting more than just oneself, and all these traits are much needed for every individual in Pakistan today. Though just a drop right now, Aladin and her school are working towards creating substantial waves and they should be supported and appreciated. 10) Farahnaz Zahidi Becoming a shining emblem for Pakistani female journalists, Farahnaz Zahidi was nominated by Women Deliver, a global organisation that works for women’s rights, as one of the 15 most powerful female journalists around the world, for her features on women’s rights. She is the only Pakistani woman to have made it to this list Farahnaz has been able to bring pressing issues regarding women’s emancipation and health in the limelight and was able to inspire her co-workers and readers alike to strive for a better tomorrow  for everyone, especially women. 9) Aamina Jahangir While beginning with just her A-levels security-deposit money as initial capital, Aamina Jahangir was able to establish the fact that Pakistani women can be great entrepreneurs too, if only they use their skills and resources smartly. Running her deliciously sweet business venture, aptly named The Cakery (since she specialises in baked items and cakes), Jahangir has been able to introduce herself as a force to be reckoned with. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Facebook[/caption] The entrepreneur has a diploma in law and she manages her venture by assistance from different companies who sponsor her delicacies – Proctor & Gamble being one of them. The Cakery is making new waves for culinary minds to persevere and realise their own dreams, which is motivational as well as exceptional. 8) Salma Habib Working with children who belong to the more destitute, slum areas of Karachi, Salma Habib has been a positive force in helping children and harnessing their artistic skills. She works with them by providing the resources, stationary and place for these children to draw and showcase their talent. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Facebook[/caption] By helping these children express through art, Habib is able to create a sense of individuality and self-esteem in them, which is often lacking in street children. Every week, she focuses on a band of children and assists them in addressing their qualities, which is inspirational to say the least. More people like Habib need to be present in our society, so that these children may be able to find some colour in their perpetually grey lives. 7) Shabina Mustafa Shabina Mustafa is one of those people who aim towards a goal and do everything in their power to achieve it. While chasing her dream to disseminate education, Mustafa started a school in her own garage, which was later dubbed as The Garage School, where she helped underprivileged children receiving education. This school was formed in 1999 and she has been persevering with it ever since. Today, even after so many years, the school still operates from a rented building in Neelum Colony, Karachi, and has helped hundreds of students over the years. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="431"] Photo: The Garage School website[/caption] 6)  Ayesha Farooq Pakistan’s first female fighter pilot is not a woman to be messed around with. Like a scene out of Top Gun, Ayesha dons her military attire and olive green hijab with aplomb and ease, even though she works in such a testosterone-fuelled profession. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="533"] Photo: Reuters[/caption] Ayesha has been involved in purging Waziristan off Taliban strongholds and is thus a hero in her own right for risking her life for the security and safety of Pakistan. She still maintains close links with her faith and culture yet is breaking taboos and cultural norms by pursuing this profession. 5) Reham Khan [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="533"] Photo: RehamKhanOfficial.com[/caption] This was a difficult choice for me because Reham Khan has been shrouded in controversy since her advent into the public eye. Imran Khan’s choice of marriage partner was bound to be just as questionable as his political choices, especially since Reham was a divorcee with three children and a BBC news presenter who wore controversial attire when she lived in Britain. To add to this drama, it seemed that Imran Khan’s family were wholly against the nuptial and Reham’s former-husband even denied the domestic violence allegations made against him wholeheartedly. I chose Reham because she remained poised and graceful despite all the ridiculously cruel comments made about her character. She continued to smile and remained very polite in her dealings with the media. In a society which regards divorced women as tainted, it was very refreshing to see a single mother remarrying in a conservative society like Pakistan. It gave divorced women hope and Reham also set a high benchmark of how to behave when people make all kinds of libellous allegations against a divorcee. A truly graceful lady! 4) Muniba Mazari [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="400"] Photo: Twitter[/caption] I first came across Muniba on Instagram and was blown away by her encapsulating smile and positive energy which would often pale her wheelchair into insignificance. In a society which regards disability as some kind of curse, Muniba has risen as a phoenix amongst the ashes to become the face of dignity and refined determination. Not only is she an accomplished artist but she is often seen shedding light on the greyer areas of Pakistani society with elegance and grace. She became a paraplegic following a tragic road traffic accident but instead of wallowing in perpetual grief, she showcases her paintings on her blog, Muniba’s Canvas and stands tall. She also visited the survivors of the APS tragedy in various hospitals and is a strong advocate of children’s rights and education. I am expecting greater accolades from Muniba in the years to come and wish her success in her endeavours. 3) Baroness Syeda Warsi [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="533"] Photo: AFP[/caption] Although Baroness Warsi was born and resides in the UK, she still shines the light for Pakistanis based overseas. Her name is mentioned here not because of her political or lawyerly prowess but the stance she took on Israel’s bombardment of Gaza in the summer of 2014. Warsi sent a strongly-worded letter to David Cameron, the prime minister of the United Kingdom, about how she could no longer partake in mainstream British politics because of the UK’s “morally indefensible” stance on Gaza. This was a slap in the face of quiet servitude within politics and proved that Pakistani women remain strong-willed. 2) Tahira Qazi [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="533"] Photo: Online[/caption] Most principals throughout schools are known for their emphasis on discipline and decorum but Ms Tahira Qazi will always go down in the history of school leaders as being the bravest principal ever. Her strong motherly instincts came into play on that heinous day when APS Peshawar was attacked and innocent lives were lost. Instead of absconding, Ms Qazi remained with her students whom she saw as her “children” and she made sure they reached safety and then she faced the sheer evil of the terrorists. They prodded her for information about where the children were hidden but she remained stoic and said that she was the mother of those children. She lost her life protecting countless students and will always be revered for her heroic stance on that disastrous day. Ms Qazi was a beautiful soul who once again showed how selfless and unselfish a mother’s love is. 1) The mothers of APS’ murdered children When I think about that horrific day the epitome of innocence was shattered, it still raises a huge lump in my throat and tears well up in my eyes. The day that no Pakistani must ever forget: December 16, 2014. The day 145 innocent souls departed this world. It is unfathomable for any mother throughout the world to send her child to school only to find they have been brutally murdered in such a chilling and cold-blooded manner. Those mothers who lost their sons on that tragic day are the true definition of resilience and bravery as they face the prospect of waking each day without being able to hug their children. Their children were taken from them by a war which had absolutely nothing to do with them and these mothers are now making the ultimate sacrifice; trying to move on. While the rest of the country now tries to return to some form of normalcy, these mothers will always carry the gravest of burdens and heaviest of hearts. While they should be running their fingers through their sons’ hair to reassure them, they will be left wanting and wondering “what if” my son was alive today. The pain will never dissipate but remain like a dull ache forever. These women are to be revered and respected for the tremendous loss they bear each and every day and they truly encapsulate everything about Women’s Day. A woman is not just a mother, wife, sister or daughter but she is a bountiful entity who can bear enormous pressure and still remain poised and graceful. The women listed above are a testimony of that. Happy Women’s Day!

There are rumours flying around of production beginning on an Indian version of Game of Thrones (GoT). We let India sneak ahead in the nuclear arms race but we seem to be far ahead of them in the television dramas race. However, this could be a game-changer – to ensure we maintain our advantage we must make our own version of GoT before India! To make the job easier for all prospective producers, I have taken the liberty of casting the Pakistani Game of Thrones. 1. Mahira Khan as Daenerys Targaryen Our latest export to Bollywood is really the only option to play the mother of dragons. We can even pretend Humsafar was a prequel to GoT giving Khaleesi the perfect bechari aurat storyline to justify her wrath. We can also cast Sheheryar Munawar Siddiqui as Khal Drogo to give her company in season one. 2. Fawad Khan as Jon Snow This clearly does not need a description. I can only imagine how long the audition line would be for the role of Ygritte. And no Sonam Kapoor, you can't play Ygritte. 3. The late Maqsood Hassan as Tyrion Lannister He was the only actor in Pakistan who could have done justice to the role of Tyrion Lannister so I am using this space to honour the legacy of the veteran who devoted his life to the stage. 4. Ali Zafar as Jamie Lannister Ali Zafar definitely has the looks to pull off the Kingslayer. 5. Aamina Sheikh as Cersei Lannister We just need to pull out the blonde dye, and censor all the Jamie-Cersei scenes from the series. 6. Nadeem Baig as Tywin Lannister The legend of the film industry completes the Lannister family. 7. Inzamamul Haq as Robert Baratheon The boys played well in the war. He definitely has the beard. 8. Shaan Shahid as Stannis Baratheon Just like Igloo King cone, there can only be one “true” king here too. 9. Osman Khalid Butt as Renly Baratheon Because, why not? 10. Ali Azmat as Lord Varys They might as well be twins. 11. Javed Sheikh as Ned Stark He is the guy you call whenever you need one of these roles so why change that now. 12. Humayun Saeed as Rob Stark Only if he puts his own money into the production – for once people might be celebrating the Red Wedding. 13. Syra Shehroz as Arya Stark She does look like she could be 13. 14. Humaima Malick as Sansa Stark Just a humble request to the Pakistani producers, don't see this as a cue to put an item number in the Pakistani GoT. The girls can act too you know. 15. Bilawal Bhutto as Bran Stark I mean if someone gets to be carried on the back of somebody solely based on their family legacy... 16. Nasir Jamshed as Hodor He is out of employment after the World Cup, so he may need to raise his intellect to match it with Hodor's though. 17. Hamza Ali Abbasi as Joffrey Baratheon A young guy who thinks he is the king and it is his job to police the behaviour of everyone. Hamza Ali Abbasi is perfect! 18. Aamir Liaquat as Peter Baelish Is there a more hated character in The Seven Kingdoms? 19. Imran Khan as Jorah Mormont Forever friend zoned by the prime ministership. 20. Zubaida Aapa as Melisandre Magic is basically the Zubaida Aapa ke totkay (home remedies) of Westeros.

Pakistani cinema is on the verge of revival as more and more talented directors and film-makers prove their mettle in the field. Asim Raza’s debut project, Ho Mann Jahaan is one such movie we should keep an eye out for. Currently in the making, unlike many other movies in Lollywood, this film does not focus on politics. Based on the relationship dynamics between three friends, it is going to be the perfect epitome of an entertaining yet meaningful Lollywood flick. [fbvideo link="https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=1589278938018907&set=vb.1504206416526160&type=2&theater"][/fbvideo] I got the chance to meet the cast and crew of this much-awaited movie and tried my best to get as much information as possible. Here is what I found out: 1. 90% of the shooting has been completed, that too in a span of only 50 days. [fbvideo link="https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=1565261260420675&theater"][/fbvideo] 2. Mahira Khan, Sheheryar Munawar and Adeel Hussain are the lead actors of the movie. While they have done projects together, this will be the first time all three actors work alongside one another in a project.  [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="595"] Photo: Ho Mann Jahaan Facebook page[/caption] 3. Asim Raza is famous for producing some amazing ad campaigns and music videos. [fbvideo link="https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=1562761780670623&theater"][/fbvideo] 4. This is not a musical but music is the main theme of the story. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="596"] Photo: Ho Mann Jahaan Facebook page[/caption] 5. Adeel Hussain plays the character of Nadir, a dutiful son of rich parents. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="595"] Photo: Ho Mann Jahaan Facebook page[/caption] 6. Sheheryar Munawar plays the character of Arhaan who belongs to a lower middle class family and wants to pursue music as his career. Sheheryar is also co-producing the film.  [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="594"] Photo: Ho Mann Jahaan Facebook page[/caption] 7. Mahira Khan plays the role of Manizeh who is brought up in a liberal family. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="595"] Photo: Ho Mann Jahaan Facebook page[/caption] 8. The movie is shot in Karachi. Some of the scenes are shot at Frere Hall and IBA. 9. There are nine songs in the movie. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="595"] Photo: Ho Mann Jahaan Facebook page[/caption] 10. The movie also features Bushra Ansari, Sonia Jahan, Nimra Bucha and Arshad Mehmud. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="594"] Photo: Ho Mann Jahaan Facebook page[/caption] 11. This movie is expected to release on Eidul Azha. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="595"] Photo: Ho Mann Jahaan Facebook page[/caption] 12. The music was produced by old and new talent of our music industry including some famous names like Atif Aslam, Tina Sani, Abu Mohammad, Asrar, Faakhir, Jimmy Khan, Zeb and Haniya. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="595"] Photo: Ho Mann Jahaan Facebook page[/caption] 13. Mahira’s costumes were designed by Feeha Jamshed and Umar Sayeed. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="596"] Photo: Screenshot[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="595"] Photo: Ho Mann Jahaan Facebook page[/caption] 14. Male costumes were designed by Ismail Fareed. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="594"] Photo: Ho Mann Jahaan Facebook page[/caption] 15. Bushra Ansari plays most pranks on the sets. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="595"] Photo: Ho Mann Jahaan Facebook page[/caption] 16. You will see Adeel Hussain dancing in the movie. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="597"] Photo: Screenshot[/caption] This post originally appeared here. 

Hello Pakistani filmmakers and television producers, my friends and I exist in this country too! There are two types of Karachi girls shown in Pakistani dramas and films – she’s either “bholi bhali” ,“seedhi saadhi”, “masoom” larki or a complete “chundaal” aurat out to snatch your “bhola bhala”, “seedha saadha”,“masoom” man! One of the reasons why I can’t watch anything “Pakistani” these days is because I can’t see a representation of women like myself on TV. I yawned when people fawned over Khirad – I was pissed off that a smart woman like Mahira Khan would take on a role so submissive and meek. I watched it till the end hoping that she would kick Asher’s mummy-obsessed (albeit very cute) bum! Sadly, she took him back and everyone worldwide clap-clapped! I couldn’t relate to Humaima Malik or Iman Ali’s characters in Bol. I couldn’t relate to Subeeka Imam’s rich daddy’s girl character or Zhalay’s courtesan character in Jalaibee. I can’t see myself in the singers, morning show hosts, designers, models or actresses on TV! Now, why am I cribbing about not finding a role model on TV? Because there are tons of urban women like myself roaming around in Karachi. Sadly, filmmakers and drama producers consider us too boring to really showcase our stories in dramas or films. We don’t fit the stereotype! We are neither slutty savitris nor sati savitris (Thanks Osman Khalid Butt for that expression)! We’re opinionated, we’re tenacious, and we’re not wrapped up in a chaddar! At the same time, we don’t look or dress like the models on TV. We don’t take shit from others and can gulp down silly men like a paratha roll! Some of us have chosen to go the traditional route and marry, some of us haven’t! We’re young, we’re fun, and our stories would be a much-needed departure from the typical characters seen on TV. If you go back to the memorable days of Tanhaiyaan and Ankahi, Marina Khan and Shehnaz Shaikh played normal urban women in the 80s. I can relate to them more than anyone on TV right now. Have our female characters in film and television regressed along with the nation’s regression? Marina and Shehnaz did not look like models, they didn’t dress in designer clothing, they weren’t stereotypically masoom or chaaalak, but they made us laugh, they made us cry, they were strong, they were brave and their stories were interesting. They were relatable! I, for one, don’t want to open my television and hear another woman moan about her saas (mother-in-law) or miyan (husband), hatch plans against her bahu (daughter-in-law), or overact! Filmmakers and producers, can we please bring back the urban Pakistani girl on television? This post originally appeared here. 

Bin Roye’s premiere was held at Nueplex Cinema yesterday and the entire setup was done up beautifully with motiyas (jasmine) used as a pretty backdrop. It was a star studded night, boasting of celebrities from the star cast of Bin Roye – Mahira Khan, Humayun Saeed and Armeena Khan along with Behroz Sabzwari, Shehroz Sabzwari and Syra Shehroz who were there to support Javed Shaikh. Bushra Ansari, Imran Abbas, and Angelina Malik also dropped by to show support for the cast and the movie. [embed width="620"]http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x2m7gyq[/embed] Mahira plays the lead role as Saba, while Humayun plays the role of her cousin Irtiza. Javed Shaikh and Zeba Bakhtiar are casted as Mahira’s parents while Armeena is playing Saman, Mahira’s sister. Here are five reasons why I think you should watch Bin Roye: 1. Mahira Khan [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Facebook page[/caption] If you have missed Mahira post-Humsafar, then you’ll surely love this movie. A huge chunk of the movie is focused on Mahira who is projected as an extremely happy and love struck individual. 2. Breath-taking locations and scenic views  [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Facebook page[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Facebook page[/caption] From what I have heard, a major part of the movie was shot in Karachi while some of the scenes were also shot in San Francisco. So if you are romantic soul in search of wanderlust, you’d love the movie for the locations and the mesmerising views. 3. Balle Balle is the new London Thumukda [embed width="620"]http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x2twdft[/embed] Okay, I know this may come off as a bit exaggerated, but the songs were pretty good. Balle balle stole the show for me, While Maula Maula came in second, because Abida Parveen. Enough said! 4. Support #PakistaniCinema  Let’s be honest, we all want our entertainment industry to grow and flourish. Since the past two years, Pakistan has witnessed a changing trend in the movie industry. Due to the inception of Khuda Ke Liye, we have been gifted with a new era which will definitely bring the doomed film industry back on its feet. So if you’re not a fan of either of the stars casted, I’d still urge you to go and watch the movie because we should support Pakistani cinema. 5. Upcoming drama series Some of you may already know that Bin Roye is the movie adaptation of Farhat Ishtiaq’s novel, Bin Roye Aansoo. So if you’re an avid reader and prefer books over movies and also end up watching movie adaptations of your favourite books, then you should get yourself a ticket. Also, did I mention that HUM TV is soon going to produce a drama series on the same novel? Yes. You read that right. Apart from the locations, what I loved most about the movie, were the clothes. The designers in charge for the clothes are Sania Maskatiya, Feeha Jamshed, Elan, Deepak Perwani, Jazib Qamar, Labels and Bonanza. There are a few things which you’ll notice while watching the movie. Bin Roye, like any other movie, comes with loopholes and imperfections. So here are five reasons not to watch the Lollywood flick: 1. The storyline was abrupt We all know how difficult it is to do justice to the books, but here we are facing a totally different story. There was a lack of synchronisation in the scenes and everything was abrupt. I like my mango shake and my movies quite blended. 2. The first half of the movie is extremely confusing [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Facebook page[/caption] Everyone will be confused in the first half of the movie. Fifty minutes into the movie and you’d still be watching Mahira going gaga over her cousin, Irtiza, who she’s in love with. 3. No clarity [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Facebook page[/caption] Humayun is no doubt a brilliant actor and I believe he should have been given more screen presence throughout the movie. Also, Humayun goes abroad for two years and it’s still not clear why he actually went there. ‘It’s good for his career’, is all he said in the movie. No other explanation was given as to why he went abroad. Was it a job offer, did you have to go for studies? What exactly did you go there for? 4. Lack of character development A little more detail and focus on the characters would have helped in a proper character development. Supporting casts were also given very few dialogues. Oh and who was the guy who accompanied Irtiza to and back from the airport? Still unknown. 5. First half was slow [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Facebook page[/caption] The first half of the movie was a little slow. However, the second half of the movie managed to pull up the pace and while some scenes were shot brilliantly, some were hazy. If I had to rate Bin Roye in each department, it would be, Music: Four out of five Eye candy: Four out of five Direction: Three out of five Overall: Three out of five If you are looking to take your family out on Eid, this movie could be one of the options. If you have watched the movie or planning to watch it, do share your feedback. This post originally appeared here.

Open letters are the new ‘in’ thing. Everyone, while not busy taking selfies or engaging in internet wars, is writing them. Unlike personal letters that are addressed to and only read by the person intended, these have a universal appeal. Hence, I decided to write a few of my own, a series of them in fact. Here is the first one: To Hamza Ali Abbasi from an Online Jihadi. Hazrat Hamza Ali Abbasi Sahib, My heart sank when I saw the trailer of your upcoming movie, Jawani Phir Nahin Ani. And it sank even further to the bottom of the very pool you were seen emerging from, staring lustfully at bikini-clad women, being just as skimpily clothed yourself. Now, before you get any wrong ideas, let me clear the air that I’m not (God forbid) one of those liberals who believe in the shameful idea of living and letting live. My indignation with you stems out of our commonality; I’m just as holier-than-thou, morally superior and self-righteous as you are, and I write this letter to you in good spirit. All I’m saying is that whatever you do in your personal life is your own business (in stark contrast to Ayesha Omar and Maria Wasti), but just be a little cautious while filming something millions of young, unpolluted minds are going to see. My other complaint with you lies in your desertion of the police force and joining this ‘dirty’ industry. I mean, you could have easily stayed in the law enforcement agencies and checked nikkah naamahs (marriage contracts) of those engaging in utterly deplorable acts like chatting and sitting together in public spaces, and polluting innocent minds. I bet you’d have loved to give such debauch people a good thrashing! You would have been another Maya Khan in the making, Sir! But I must confess, you undid some of the damage by starring in Waar and playing a good Muslim and Pakistani. Speaking of Waar, here is another woe – why English? The language of the infidels! And why have a sister who not only dares to leave her home to work alongside men (touches ears) but even dons western clothes? Also, it would have been a lot better if you were to fight some Indians or Americans in that film in place of killing your fellow Muslims. But then again, your Facebook statuses tell me there’s only so much you can do, and I guess it’s not easy working in an industry filled with sinners that you totally and appropriately hate. There are the gay designers you hate but still have to wear their clothes, the besharam item number girls you hate but still have to romance, the venomous friends you love but who get you to film exposing scenes you hate, the Indian content you hate but your claim-to-fame serial started with an Indian song. How do you manage all this pressure? And hence, my letter of faith to you. I’m sure you’ll soon start your exalted campaign of cleansing this industry of all the filth. Also, if I may, why don’t you do a programme of your own next Ramazan? What better celebrity than you for this noble cause? With you in the lead, we ought to be hearing good news again! Regards, Your brother in faith (and hypocrisy) To Mahira Khan from a Film Critic My Dearest Mahira Khan, I hope this letter finds you in as pink a health as your cheeks in the songs of Bin Roye. Unfolding my grievances, my wait for a pass to Bin Roye’s premiere never saw the sun’s supreme glory and I was brazenly denied entry to the venue. Had this been any other film critic, your film would get a bashing so intense that it would echo in all the Indian cinema halls where your film finally got the green light to be screened. Okay, pardon my sarcasm – I wrote a review for your film for one of the leading English dailies and gave it a whooping five stars, all because of you. I even wrote a review of your upcoming movie Raees and submitted it, only to receive some very cold looks (and words) from my editor, that fat ingrate! I was then told to submit it later since Raees’s release is still about a year away. Talking about your films, why are you so insistent upon playing love interests of men you can so conveniently play the daughter of? I might not know a lot about film-making, the closest I got to the task was recording my daughter’s birthday on my phone (but the trick in our business is never to leak secrets; when I’m clueless about a film, I just put in a lot of complicated English words that the masses cannot comprehend and usually say something nasty about things like ‘cinematography’ and put in a line or two like ‘the script doesn’t have enough glue to keep it together’), but I know well enough to advise you against working with historical (literally speaking) men. To be honest, I don’t even watch many films. My landing in this profession was an obscene follow up to my rejection as an investigative journalist. But hey, I’m not complaining. For you see, unlike investigative journalists, I never get any hate mail. Okay, to be honest, I don’t get any mail at all. But that’s alright. Also, since you’re in touch with Shah Rukh Khan, could you please tell him not to take up roles that depict him as a lover in his 20’s? It’s funny. Also, tell him to never to take off his shirt. That’s funnier. And next time you’re making a movie, make sure you’re putting in a full dhuaandaar (fiery) item number. That’s all we film critics care about. I gave Bol a sad one and a half star only, simply because of that amateur mujra in the film. Remember, for when you’re in India, we will be watching you closely. To be honest, that’s about the only time we Pakistani critics do watch our celebrities closely – when they are in India! Also, excuse me as I take my leave and rush off to watch Bajrangi Bhaijaan because, then again, these are the only kinds of films we actually watch and understand! Regards, A critic waiting for an invite to Ho Mann Jahaan. To Reham Khan from an Insafian Respected Reham Bhabi, It gives me immense pleasure to write to you since you aren’t only our leader’s impeccable choice, but also the most popular national bhabi of our country – second only to Sania bhabi. I could have written this letter directly to your husband, the great Khan, but he doesn’t really pay heed to others’ words, even (or especially) if they happen to be his voters. First of all, please congratulate Khan Sahib on winning the 1992 World Cup, for that’s the juncture where we seem to be stuck at – and which serves as a fulcrum for all our political debates. Winning the cup might have been team effort but he, and we, prefer to make it sound like a one-man story. Also congratulate him on the success story of Shaukat Khanum Memorial Hospital which stands as an emblem of all his leadership qualities. Now, haters may say running a hospital and a country are two different things but he, and we, beg to differ. Speaking of haters, it’s so shameful to see those low lives disrespecting a woman and making a pointless deal about your (lack of) degree. We, on the other hand, maintain a more austere code of conduct. Yes, we might attack a leading politician’s daughter with elopement jokes but that’s solely in national interest. Talking about the nation, the last time I checked, Mr Khan was reiterating his beliefs about a dialogue with the Taliban. Now, haters may say that such statements, especially when the army is carrying out serious operations against them, may be demoralising and destructible but he, and we, think otherwise. But then, what else can you expect from people who can hire fake people to act as fake parents to fake shaheed children while our leader went to Army Public School (APS) in Peshawar? And who also look down upon our revolutionary dharna as being economically damaging? Ask DJ Butt about the economy bit! Our leader (and we) believe the dharna to be nothing less than a French Revolution in the making, only better. Oh, and the most important thing! Your husband is very knowledgeable, with all those fancy quotes from dead people on Twitter. He, and we, believe him to be Pakistan’s Nelson Mandela, only better. Also while you’re at it, can you please remind him that a place called Hazara also exists in Khyber-Pukhtunkhwa (K-P)? I’m not complaining, in the spirit of a true ‘Insafian’, but the presence of your husband’s government was only felt in the region when he threatened to throw the doctors out of the hospitals! What a furore it caused amongst those poor things, ha! Oh, it has just started raining. And when it rains, the very decrepit roads of Abbottabad, the city I hail from, become deep ponds in a matter of minutes. But our leader, and we, believe what happens in K-P, stays in K-P (except for Peshawar’s beautification pictures which go up on Facebook)! What many don’t understand is that rain is a blessing in disguise. All of us just wait for Lahore’s underpasses to fill with water so we can crack Venice jokes! Anyway, I’m off to post something offensive against some lifafa journalists, all in the name of national interest, of course! Regards, Your dewar from Naya Pakistan To Ayyan Ali from a Senior Journalist Dear Beauty (Jail) Queen, Let me start with an honest confession: I don’t really know who you are. You were completely non-existent for me a couple of months ago - before you got caught at the airport and all hell let loose. Yes, even though you did a few mobile company commercials, occasionally throwing your husband around but those did nothing to change your non-existent status. Yes, yes, I’ve heard that you are some top model or something, but what sort of a top model takes selfies with Waqar Zaka? I mean, sure, I have to admit that your selfie gave Komal Rizvi a run for her money, but really?! Anyway, you might be wondering about the purpose of this open letter. Well, I don’t have any other way to contact you and something’s been piquing me so much that I just had to get it out of my system. It was nauseating to see my community treat you so harshly while you were in jail. A lot of stupid, reckless attention was given to you irrationally – and no one asked you any real questions. Along the way, there also came reports of a murder associated with your case, but when my community had your attire and Adiala jail’s other inmates’ happiness to talk about, it deserved to be ignored. The social media’s dealing was just as absurd – each hearing of yours invited a number of status updates, drooping even to the level of posting heinous ultrasound pictures. I, as a senior journalist of this country, was overwhelmingly appalled by all this. I’m all for the freedom of the media but nothing is above the upholding of morals and professionalism. And I’m a sucker for accurate reporting – I just have to be direct and clear – no matter how much my questions offend my victim/guest. Therefore, I write this letter to you to apologise for what my media community did to you. I will write another open letter to a leading film star of this country and his channel for airing your old interview this Eid – these people will do anything for ratings. Also, despite the excessive coverage, not one reporter asked you anything of importance. Not one! But I have one question - please answer honestly: Are you actually related to Iman Ali? Surely, the common surname and the rhyming first names cannot just be an uncanny coincidence? Also, may I have her mobile number? Thank you! Regards, A senior journalist and analyst, ex-CEO of an obsolete group.

The University of Karachi (KU) has been home to intellectual discussions and scholarly rendezvous since time immemorial. Academic finesse is ubiquitous here and I have always found myself inspired while walking through its corridors and thinking about all the greats who have walked the same path before me. The university has had the privilege to host esteemed guests at its various ceremonies – it has seen the likes of Haseena Moin, Ibne Insha, Zia Mohyeddin and many other legends who have come and inspired students with their lectures. Contemporary celebrities like Fawad Khan, Mahira Khan, Kamila Shamsie, Sania Saeed, Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan and others have also recently shown their support for the institute’s many social causes. On top of this, hoards of foreign social workers, activists, journalists, teachers, scholars, politicians, diplomats and more have graced this university with their presence. And I am proud to say that I have been a witness to their magic in KU. Therefore, when I first heard the news of Ayyan Ali coming to KU as a guest lecturer for the Department of Public Administration to inaugurate a department-level business venture, I was taken aback. Keeping aside the fact that Ayyan is already underway a case trial for money laundering, what bothered me more was that she has absolutely no experience in terms of public relations, administration and has zero expertise when it comes to fast food venture (which is what the project was about). So why was she there in the first place? There are so many people who could have been invited in her place, who would have been more apt, like Muniba Mazari (entrepreneur) or Jehan Ara (online social activist) for example. This was a poor choice and the department should understand that. However, having said that, I wish to raise another issue which surfaced after this news broke, and that is the over-the-top, blown-out-of-proportion media coverage that was given to this fairly harmless issue. Why our media and our journalist community felt the need to make a mountain out of a mole here is beyond my cunning. Does Ayyan coming to KU to give a lecture on entrepreneurship merit news bulletins after news bulletins dedicated to its coverage? If no, then why was she plastered on every news channel? Perhaps it is because everyone knows that Ayyan – like many other public figures – sells tremendously and covering her would help media organisation fill the void that they have created by not catering for news-worthy content. Had it been any other guest coming to KU for a good cause, would our media have covered it like this? Absolutely not. I have seen many causes die down just because they did not get the spotlight they deserved. Furthermore, I cannot help but see an underlying misogyny in our reprimand for Ayyan. I mean, this is the same university that gave Rehman Malik an honorary doctorate for God-knows what; so why do we feel offended now? And Ayyan isn’t the first controversial guest to come to KU, we have had a number of political and religious outfits who have come to KU to “share their knowledge”, so why the hype now? My question is, had it been a man in place of her, would we still care about this news as much? Had it been a male politician charged with money laundering, would we still have felt as indignant as we do right now? No, we wouldn’t have. And I know this because our people are more accepting of male criminals than female criminals. The fact that we had one such imprisoned individual as our president for a good eight years testifies our leniency towards the male stratum. Ayyan has been called all sorts of vile things ever since this news broke out and the vitriol has been exceptionally misogynistic – we all need to accept that. Perhaps before we decide to sit on our high horses and go on a witch hunt for Ayyan, we should address our own double standards and learn to treat everyone equally, irrespective of gender.

The year 2015 will be hosting its 14^th Lux Style Awards (LSA) ceremony. LSA is almost a teenager now, but instead of turning out to be a rebellious punk with a killer sense of style, it’s turned out to be a meek wallflower in dowdy dungarees. I say that because during the 14 years of its existence, I can’t recall a single memorable dance performance or a tear-jerking speech by any Pakistani actor or actress. For that matter, no outfit on the red carpet left any impression either; no glamorous gown, sari or dress left me absolutely stunned. We pause our lives to watch the Oscars, write thesis-long posts about each of the dresses worn by the leggy actresses, and torrent all the nominated films during commercial breaks. Even the International Indian Film Academy Awards (IIFA) performances are Youtubed through proxies and replicated at desi weddings from Delhi to Dharampura. So why do we treat the ‘Oscars’ of Pakistan like the Razzies? Now don’t go on blaming poor LSA for this travesty. The real problem isn’t the ceremony itself but how blah our ‘style’ dictators (event/entertainment managers) are. In this world of click-bait and virality, our entertainment gurus need to up their game for some serious eye-balling and tongue-wagging. So here are some ideas. 1. Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan pull a Notebook Okay, censor boards and morality won’t allow these two to kiss on stage like that passionate Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams lip affair, but the least they could do is enact that really steamy scene from Humsafar when Khirad’s safaid (white) dupatta almost shows a fraction of her seedhi maang (straight parting) and Asher almost makes eye contact with her for a fraction of a millisecond. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Twitter[/caption] 2. Mathira slips the tongue I’m thinking Molty Foam fingers, nude cholis and a mohawk sported by controversy queen Mathira? Too much? Okay twerking Punjabi style? Still too much? Groping Ali Zafar on stage? No? For God’s sake, will you let the poor woman at least accidently slip off her top on stage? 3. Sadaf Kanwal trips How can a size -zero drop dead gorgeous woman make herself more relatable and endearing to all size-50 wearing, average looking women? Well, drop down to her knees, of course! We all love a good dramatic fall from grace. And who better to fall down on the red carpet than this bushy eye browed beauty, who was accidently discovered at a salon in Karachi and then went on to compete in Veet Miss Super Model? If she says some Punjabi expletives on her way down, we’ll love her even more. 4. Model Jahan-e-Khalid wears a swan dress Okay, so I have two wishes in life before I die. 1. I want to see Jahan-e-Khalid shirtless 2. I want to get over my insane crush on Jahan-e-Khalid What better way to achieve both objectives than to get him to come to the event wearing nothing but a Bjork inspired swan dress. Swans too girly for this male model? How about a horse thrown around his muscular shoulders? No? How about a dog wrapped around his waist? How about a turban made from choohas (mice)? No? I’m going to die unfulfilled!  5. Deepak Perwani pulls a Kanye West on Urwa Hocane Urwa Hocane is the local embodiment of Taylor Swift. She’s young, fun and everywhere. You can’t turn a corner without seeing her face on a billboard or change a channel without seeing her in a drama. So we can totally understand if Deepak Perwani got a little bit flustered and went on stage, grabbed the mic, and ruined this doe-eyed young beauty’s big moment and started rapping about how someone else deserves to win that category altogether. [embed width="620"]http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xp326j_taylor-swift-vma-award-moment-ruined-by-kanye-west_music[/embed]

Nepotism has a new face in Pakistan. Can you guess who it is? No, it’s not Nawaz Sharif. It’s not the Bhutto clan. It’s not the politicians or the bureaucracy. All those institutions have been swept aside by that new lady in town. We fondly call her ‘Lollywood’, but she’s more formally known as Pakistan’s film industry. She isn’t really new, but her recently acquired contemporary ornaments have taken years off her face. She wears Bol around her neck, carries Bin Roye under her arm and has crowned her head with Waar. In step with her is her entourage; a horde of uncles and aunties, brothers and sisters, nephews and nieces. Pakistan’s film industry is flourishing rapidly and the credit essentially goes to the directors and producers who resuscitated it and brought it back from the gallows before a death sentence could have sealed its fate. It is as if they have taken a silent vow to carry the burden of the entire industry themselves. Unfortunately, their appropriation of the film industry has come at a huge cost. The harrowing truth is that the industry only has a handful of actors who get casted – and re-casted. There are only a few names up on the marquee, of which the regulars are Faysal Qureshi, Saba Qamar etc. Every name is a household name. Although these actors are immensely talented, I can’t help but roll my eyes as I surf through the channels and see the same faces. I know their wrinkles, blemishes and moles by heart now. Therefore, I am on my knees and joining my palms for this desperate plea: Bring in some new talent, for God’s sake! Admittedly, there are many young actors who have shot to the top, however, the reality is that they are the relatives of the big names; cousins, sons or daughters of prominent actors of their time. The progeny is stepping in and reaping the gold. That seems to be the norm Pakistan subscribes to. Take, for instance, the case of Sikander Rizvi. He is the grandson of Noor Jehan, who was a renowned singer of the 90’s. He did not break a sweat as he nabbed the lead for Dekh Magar Pyar Se.

“I never wanted to work in films even though I have always been surrounded by the film stars.  When Fawad dropped out, I happily stepped into his shoes.”

Asim Raza’s Ho Mann Jahaan has been one of the most anticipated movies of 2016 in Pakistani cinema. This New Year will hopefully boast of a massive-TV-audience influx at cinema halls in Pakistan. Ho Mann Jahaan features great talents like the gorgeous Mahira Khan, the talented Sheheryar Munawar, the brilliant actor from Jackson Heights, Adeel Hussain and Sonya Jehan. The movie was heavily promoted on all social media platforms and a great hype was built around it, but was it really all that? Let’s see what this movie had to offer to its viewers and whether it lives up to its hype. [embed width="620"]http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x2kqqos[/embed] Ho Mann Jahaan is a tale of three friends, Manizeh (Mahira Khan), Nadir (Adeel Hussain) and Arhaan (Sheheryar Munawar) and their respective journey’s in life. Their love and passion for music is intense and can clearly be seen throughout the movie, but unfortunately, this passion of theirs is suppressed by their respective families and society as well. What ensues in the pursuit of finding and achieving their dreams is what Ho Mann Jahaan is all about. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Ho Mann Jahaan official Facebook page[/caption] The performances, despite the star-studded cast, were mediocre and nothing really to write home about. In my opinion, no particular actor stood out; I must add though, Sheheryar Munawar’s talent is noteworthy. While I do feel that at certain points, especially pre-interval, he wasn’t completely comfortable in his role, his post-interval performance was fantastic and very relatable. Adeel Hussain carries his character, Nadir, remarkably well but somehow seems to lack conviction in various parts of the movie. As for Mahira Khan, well... she’s beautiful and the camera loves her, but the role she played was so... Mahira that I could predict what was going to happen next. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Ho Mann Jahaan official Facebook page[/caption] In the music department, Ho Mann Jahaan has brought many great artists together, but still received a rather mixed reaction; while some you will leave the cinema hall humming to yourself, there are others that just fell flat (despite being heavily promoted). [embed width="620"]http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x3et0gp[/embed] [embed width="620"]http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x3bwgqe[/embed] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Ho Mann Jahaan official Facebook page[/caption] The highlight of Ho Mann Jahaan is its cameo-gang. Asim Raza has interestingly and intelligently utilised multiple actors (read stars) as cameos in the script and this has been welcomed as a refreshing change. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Ho Mann Jahaan official Facebook page[/caption] Personally, I felt the biggest let down of Ho Mann Jahaan was in its editing. Towards the end of the film, you feel it beginning to drag on and had the required editing taken place, the film would have been much shorter, crisper and sweeter. Asim Raza has always been a director upon whom you can rely - we knew his debut movie was sure to entertain. Reasonably relatable and all your emotions will definitely be awakened. All in all, Asim Raza’s Ho Mann Jahan will amuse and possibly delight, but it will not knock you dead. But it is definitely worth a watch, especially with your families. I would rate HMJ a three out of five.

The reunions, the parties and the holiday mood, it must be that time of the year when we reminisce and celebrate the life we had, the milestones we reached and the people we met. More so we hope to finally bid adieu to some bad habits, unhealthy relationships, our darling food babies and truck loads of unwanted baggage. The glorious dawn of a new year is just the portal we all need to start fresh with yet another overambitious list of resolutions and a brand new set of expectations. 2015 has been a year of mixed emotions, from the deadly Paris attacks to the heart wrenching plight of the refugees the world came together in promoting peace, activism and humanitarianism. On a lighter note, the year bore one too many surprises, particularly in the fashion world where Steve Harvey’s casual slip up literally shook the universe. Fashion met its highs and lows, introducing us to certain things that may best be assumed as one time wonders while bestowing us with many others that have successfully paved their way to our ever so generous hearts. Let’s recap some of the moments, and see how fashion and trends unfolded across Pakistan and globally. 1. Statement heels The year was all about statement heels, from the A-listers to regular fashionistas and from private parties to fashion weeks our modern day Carrie Bradshaw’s proved their unprecedented love for quirky and fun heels. Sophia Webster, Charlotte Olympia and Aquazzura were the sure shot favourites. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="580"] Photo: Pinterest[/caption] 2. Cheeky cross body bags While bedazzled clutches remained a favourite with the older ladies, the youth was keen to flaunt the phrase embellished purses and cheeky cross body bags inspired by our grocery staples. Such spins on the regular totes and rather boring trademark styles definitely made carrying a bag around much more fun. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="444"] Photo: Pinterest[/caption] 3. Furry appearances Fur Fur... from North West to Mahira Khan, the faux fur made a comeback for the winters. But to fashion police’s relief most of the furry appearances remained distinct from Rihanna’s meme worthy Big Bird moment at the Met Gala. The love affair with fur however is weather oriented and rather just be pulled off by those who can carry it well. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="426"] Photo: File[/caption] 4. Christian Dior mirrored shades While burning a hole into the pocket, Christian Dior’s mirrored glares gained a cult following of their own. The amount of Instagrams featuring the eye wear speaks volumes of the product’s popularity in 2015 [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Pinterest[/caption] 5. Embellished trousers [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="267"] Photo: Karachista[/caption] So far the most understated item of eastern clothing found a life of its own in 2015. The designers shifted focus from the heavy encrusted tops to creating delicately attractive trousers. Embellished, colourful and graphic pants became a must have and a favourite on the ramp at this year’s Pakistan Fashion Week (PFW), I must say I am a fan. 6. Capes [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="267"] Photo: Karachista[/caption] Capes emerged as a perfect piece to adorn for all ages, while international brand names played well in this field, our very own designers fared equally well. The graceful yet eye catching outerwear is a winter hit and one we are sure to see everywhere this party and wedding season. 7. Healthy options [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="400"] Photo: FitBit[/caption] What a fitness inspired year it has been! In no time the fancy fit bits made way onto our wrists and crates of detox juices found home in our otherwise unhealthy fridges. Coconut oil became all the rage and poor old once famous kale lost its substance (I owe the downfall to its extremely acquired taste). I am extremely impressed by how nutrition is becoming slowly ingrained into the Pakistani culture, even if just for jumping the glamourised band wagon’s sake. Kudos to the rising yogis, fitness instructors and nutritionists for luring people towards the right track, hope 2016 remains just as steadfast. 8. International fashion faux pas [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="400"] Photo: Twitter (@haniyajilani)[/caption] While promoting Dilwale via Pakistani morning shows became the talk of the town, the questionable wardrobe choices of the hosts were every bit forgettable. I wish they had offered a more soothing sight to the eyes of social media, but given the allure of Shahrukh Khan and Kajol’s incredible chemistry, the audiences proved rather forgiving to the fashion choices. 9. Bye bye ombre, hello balayage [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="249"] Photo: Pinterest[/caption] On a hairy note, balayage dismantled the infamous ombre and the street chic half bun proved a saviour to our second and third day hair. If your face cut allows it, no harm in adding a little crazy to your regular updos is it? 10. Contouring [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="450"] Photo: Pinterest[/caption] Everyone loves some high cheek bones and a perfectly chiselled jawline, but not one at an expense of looking like you have just been baked inside out. Contouring game reached another level this year, but the mighty times it went wrong was just not a pretty sight, not on the red carpet and definitely not in the day light. 2016 shall be the year for strobing, and also hopefully less obsessed with Kylie Jenner’s lips. Goodbyes are generally hard, and this year while we had to say hello (yes, the Adele way) to an unwelcomed Donald Trump, an interesting Caitlyn Jenner and much awaited Star Wars, we parted ways with Mad Men and so did our politicians.   It’s that time of the year when sweaters come out, fireplaces are lit up and when hot chocolate/coffee becomes our kryptonite. 2015 has come to an end and as we bid farewell to 2015 and welcome 2016, lets go over the biggest trends and faux pas of this past year. 1. Statement Coats [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Pinterest[/caption] The Fall/ Winter campaigns this year were big on oversized Statement coats and long length coats. Double-breasted coats were trending everywhere and bringing the whole retro look back to the racks in menswear shops. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: GQ Magazine UK[/caption] 2. Draping Coat [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Twitter[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Dmarge.com[/caption] We don’t know if Kim Kardashian is the one to be held responsible for making this trend not only popular among the ladies, but the trend picked up very quickly amongst the men of the world. It was big on the streets of some of the biggest fashion capitals of the world. And to be honest, it’s not a bad trend considering how it’s very difficult to wear layers during the period when the weather is transitioning from Summer to Fall. It’s not too hot and it’s not too cold yet and wearing a coat makes you sweat. Solution: Just drape the coat instead of actually wearing it. 3. Longline Shirts/StreetWear [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Fahion Beans/ Pinterest[/caption] Some people might disagree with this trend because it’s not for everyone but 2015 was the year of street-wear. Long-lined t-shirts and shirts in general were big! It’s not everyone’s cup of tea but for those who can really pull it off. 4. Yeezys / Trainers [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: MTV/ Yeezy[/caption] Now if it weren’t for the YEEZYs. Kanye West's collaboration with Adidas and this fabric trainer was the most sought after shoe of all time. Fans cued outside stores for ages before getting a pair and most of them had to go back without anything. The shoes originally cost $200 but after the soaring demand, the shoes were being resold over E-Bay and other platform for as much as $1500. Well clearly anything touched by Lord Yeezus turns to Gold. Literally!  5. Monogram Slippers [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Stubbs & Wootton[/caption] Formal slippers were already a major trend for men but 2015 was when guys started getting custom monograms and embroidery on their slippers/loafers. A nice way to put an individualistic spin on things. 6. Colour Trends:  Camel and Military Green [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: The NYC Streets[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Balmain X H&M 1. Photo: Elle[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Twitter[/caption] Two colours that were bigger than the staple greys, blues, blacks and whites were army green and camel/nude. For complete mono-colour looks to statement coats, both the colours were big in street-style. 7. Metal Cap Shoes [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Giuseppe Zanotti[/caption] One name: Giuseppe Zanotti. The one man who single-handedly made the whole metallic cap - toe shoe a big thing. He was also the one who introduced metal in footwear for men 8. Wide Legged Trousers [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Tommy Ton[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: The Sartorialist[/caption] The wide legged trouser was big on the runway. Again, a very retro trend that picked up this year. It is a tricky trend because not everyone knows how to pull it off but for those who do, it some how works out and looks cool. 9. Turtle Neck [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: GQ[/caption] Turtle necks and roll over sweatshirts/ sweaters have made a comeback this year. They have never really gone out of style but this year they were seen everywhere from the ramps to the streets. 10. Chelsea Boots [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Chelsea Boots. Photo: asos.com[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Pinterest[/caption] The one thing that comes to mind with Chelsea Boots is British fashion and British street style. You can blame Harry Styles of One Direction for this but the trend is nice. They have become a sort of wardrobe staple for this fall and look nice too. Considering how they can make an entire ensemble look semi-formal. 1. Man Bun [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Vox - An ultimate guide to the Man Bun[/caption] For me, the biggest faux pas for 2015 was the man bun. A lot of guys have been seen sporting the whole trend but for some reason it just has gone a little over board. 'How to make a man bun' was one of the most Googled phrases of 2015 which is absolutely ridiculous. They look good on some people but the worst kind of man buns is the one with the undercut and the pony tail which is just plain absurd. 2. Super Low V- Neck [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Ufunk[/caption] Okay. Lets take a moment to mourn the death of fashion with these super low V Necks *takes a moment*. Now that we have recovered from the trauma, let’s talk about how this trend was just - BAD! Guys with a nice build might have somehow worked this out but 2015 was not the year for a low V-neck. And for those of you who still have this in your closet, please burn your low cut shirts. 3. Trademark Logo Fashion and Accessories [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Fashionista/ Pinterest[/caption] For some odd and incomprehensible reason, guys from the South Asian regions and Arab countries really like wearing accessories and clothes plastered with trademark logos. And lets be honest, it looks bad. Whether it’s the monogram of Gucci print or huge belt buckles with the alphabets LV, H (Hérmes) or G (Gucci) on them. And the idea of wearing Polo shirts and then tucking them in to show off your branded belts is a big faux pas. So please. Stop! 4. Half-Sleeve Button Downs [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Metro Park USA[/caption] Half sleeve button down shirts have been a very common piece of clothing that one can easily buy. But for us, it’s not the best of trends. It’s just off-putting and seems like a disproportionate mistake. It’s better to go with a full sleeve button down and fold the sleeves. 5. Ugly Trainers [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: The Wire[/caption] Yes we know that trainers have been trending for a long while but that doesn't mean you get to wear grandpa jogger-like trainers! If you do like the trend then please invest in a nice pair of trainers. Research a little before you end up buying a pair because even some of the biggest brands sell the ugliest trainers! So don't be to brand-obsessed and look for something that is aesthetically pleasing. 6.Three-Quarter Length Trousers [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Fashion Beans[/caption] Three-quarter length trousers, more popularly known as Bermuda pants in our part of the world are a huge mistake. Please just do yourself a favour and dispose off all such items in your closet. These pants are odd and are not trendy in anyway. Nothing can justify the use of these pants unless you’re a fisherman or your profession requires you to wear them (both are highly unlikely). Alternative for these is what is more popularly knows ‘cropped [ants’. Cropped pants look nice, they provide a semi formal look, they don't look too shabby and they show off your shoes. So if you are fond of showing off some skin then you can always get a pair of cropped pants or crop of a pair of pants that you already own. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Fashion Beans[/caption] 7. Patterned Button Downs [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: etsy.com[/caption] Horrendous Printed Button Downs = Big No = Faux pas of all time. Gentlemen, please get ride of the paisleys or awkward stripes! They do not look good. What you should be wearing is a nice, crisp, plain shirt. Plain shirts are always a safe bet. They go with practically everything. You can wear them formally and casually. The best thing to do is to invest in nice plain white and neutral coloured shirts. 8. Football League T-Shirts [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: The Guardian[/caption] Gentlemen, we don’t mean to offend anyone and we understand how serious you are about your favourite football leagues, but you don't have to advocate your fanaticism by wearing your respective Football league T- Shirts (unless you're playing football). If you are into sportswear, there are quite a few other options. It’s 2016 and no one will question your loyalty to your favourite league if you don’t wear those jerseys. Let’s gear up for an exciting 2016, pucker up that smile, put your best dress on and give 2015 the farewell it deserves.  

“Ho Mann Jahaan”, apparently among Pakistan’s most anticipated films, released recently to packed houses and rave reviews. While there's enough in the film to keep you glued to the seats, Pakistan has definitely seen better films lately. An amazing soundtrack, a boisterous star-cast, decent acting, ample use of flashy colours, spectacular cinematography and some great locales are some of the film’s strong points. However, there's more to the film; and far more shades of grey that go well in one flick. So here’s a round-up of the deeper meanings and greater life lessons from “Ho Mann Jahaan”. No spoilers are given here, partly because there’s not much to give from the plot-line! 1. Boys and girls can never really be friends. You might be buddies for life and all that, but all your friends from the opposite gender are eventually going to hit on you - it’s just a matter of time. Yes, even if your female best friend is committed to your male best friend. However, it totally depends on you if you prefer sweeping all this awkwardness under the carpet and are intent upon showing absolutely killer moves on “Shakar Wandaan” with the very same friends. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Facebook- Ho Mann Jahaan Official[/caption] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WOCO6FrxD4M 2. You might belong to the lower strata of society, and may also carry your humble foundations on your arm; but that won't stop you from looking dapper at will. Also, you can deliberately pronounce monotonous as mo-no-tone-ous to convince us of your lack of privileges, but owing to your showy friends and high-profile (and Sheheryar Munawar looks), that still comes across as a totally acceptable pronunciation and we start doubting our own. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Facebook- Ho Mann Jahaan Official[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Facebook- Ho Mann Jahaan Official[/caption] 3. Your life might be a complete mess, replete with all the tragedies that would give “Umrao Jaan” a run for her money; but all these problems come with a simplistic-to-the-point-of-stupid solution. You can always end up having (or feigning, if you’re strong-nerved) a nervous break-down and you are done: happy endings! So yeah, you just need a hospital admission or Mahira Khan to rescue you from life. The second one might not always work, so we’re sticking with the former. And so is Adeel Hussain! [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Screenshot[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Facebook- Ho Mann Jahaan Official[/caption] 4. Speaking of which, it has been sadly revealed that there’s only so much you can digest (and appreciate) in the name of Mahira Khan. And this is something coming from a person who watched “Bin Roye” twice for her. You might have a great cast to begin with, but you cannot expect it to swim across the ocean and come out alive if your script is tissue-paper thin. 5. Cameos might have registered themselves as the ‘in’ thing, but they are sure to be met with indifference (or worse, yawns) if they do little to compliment the story-line. Who would've thought that the sight of heart-throbs like Fawad Khan, Zohaib Hassan, Zeb Bangash and Hamza Ali Abbasi would be met with such a deafening silence. Or maybe it was just the Lahori cinema I watched the movie in. - Parents will always understand you at the end of the day, and vice versa. In this Pakistani version of “Taare Zameen Par”, with exceedingly more aged and better looking actors - the relationship between parents and kids uses a convenient brush-up. This movie must be mandatory watching for all the parents out there. They’re sure to come out as better ones afterwards. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Facebook- Ho Mann Jahaan Official[/caption] 6. If you’re single and a bit too eager to mingle, friends’ mehndis are where you should be heading. You can always count on finding a hot, compatible, eligible match for you. (Hint: they will approach you with all the Bollywood clichés - your table is empty and they’ll ask if they can take a seat; followed by the usual - ‘I don't really know many people here!’). To which you’re like, “Hell, baby. Now you know me well-enough. For life, that is!” [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Facebook- Ho Mann Jahaan Official[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Facebook- Ho Mann Jahaan Official[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Facebook- Ho Mann Jahaan Official[/caption] 7. Your dad might be a border-line fanatic, but he’ll just accept you if you're strong-headed enough. And he won’t go berserk after barring you from stopping music and then seeing you on national television out of the blue. You just have to present him, very sweetly, an invitation to your wedding (about which, again, he has no idea), and he will be there to bless you in all his might. Well the film has already been playing for a bit too long, so we’re too tired to question the sanity of this! [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Facebook- Ho Mann Jahaan Official[/caption] 8. When they say a film is made on the editing table, they aren’t kidding. A film can always (and I repeat, always) use some sleek editing. And then some more of it. If you’re bent upon dwelling on all the unnecessary bits, go for a TV drama instead. Those things run for years, but there might as well be a reason why more directors all around the world are going for shorter movies. 9. Someone might be flawless. But that does not save them from bagging a role that is meatless. Ask Sonya Jehan! [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Facebook- Ho Mann Jahaan Official[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Facebook- Ho Mann Jahaan Official[/caption] 10. Songs are imperative for a film, especially when its counting on them so heavily. Also, it is smart to save your best song for last. That way you can assure that the people remain seated to the very end. Otherwise they might leave the hall in search of greener pastures half-way through the film. 11. Everyone is selfish. Everyone uses you for their own good, eventually (especially the men). But stay tuned: Everyone also learns a lesson somehow and then competes with Mother Teresa in selflessness. Okay, that’s a bit of an exaggeration there - but given the promising trailers and mammoth-like publicity, so is this film. [embed width-"620" height="348"]https://vimeo.com/142850097[/embed] [poll id="399"]

The drama industry in Pakistan has grown exponentially and is a very valuable export of ours. These dramas have turned Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan into household names. For Pakistanis living abroad, they serve as a potent link to life back home and provide a much needed break from reality. However, there is still room for improvement. One particular thing that really irks me is the propensity to show violence against women on screen. There have been numerous incidents where a young member of my own family might be playing with a toy and they are suddenly transfixed to the TV screen, because they can hear loud screaming and women being pushed around like cattle. I have to think quickly and change the channel to avoid any permanent emotional damage being done to them. Just like smoking on screen includes a cautionary proviso in small print underneath the screen that it’s dangerous for health, some of these dramas should come with a warning that the drama may be violent. If not that, they should at least cutback on the inherently distressing scenes being shown so brazenly. Just by way of example, there is one drama in which a woman is continuously harangued and vilified by her husband. He uses derogatory language against her all the time and even violence. She is pushed around, thrown onto a bed and treated just one step short of a trash can. What’s worse is that the wife quietly tolerates the abuse being meted out against her for the sake of her daughter. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMYglyBwWYI These images are not healthy. They are not helpful for women who are facing this reality every single day. This was just one example; there are many other dramas where women are either being violently abused, beaten and/or constantly faint upon facing extreme external pressure. Are our women so fragile and devoid of reason that they have to be shown like this? Why is fainting considered to be a way of dealing with our emotions?  Is this what actually happens in real life? I understand that the purpose behind such dramas is to mimic and exaggerate public life, but there is something very disturbing with the manner in which it is being shown on TV. These dramas try to harness drama, in every sense of the word, to exaggerate circumstances and make them entertaining for viewers. Not that I’m deriding the purpose behind how ‘dramatic’ these shows are, because that is their appeal. However, why is it always at a cost to gender? It’s as if there is no more creativity left in our television industry and they have to repeat similar narratives – the cheating husband, the domesticated wife, the loveless marriage. I, for one, wish these dramas would showcase stronger female role models; the kind that would not condone abuse at all, the kind that are not afraid to fight back. It is not at all acceptable to portray women as frail and deserving of such treatment because it allows violence to become acceptable and reinforces gender roles. Take a look at American television for instance. Scandal features an extremely strong and empowered woman in the realm of politics. People come to her to get their problems fixed. Friends is an amusing story of a group of friends who try to tackle everyday problems, while staying connected to one another. The three main female characters have never had to faint or endure any form of abuse. Tyrant features a royal middle-eastern family trying to combat a country that is plagued with terrorism and corruption. The women in this show are strong, powerful, and independent. Even Game of Thrones, set in a completely fictional world, where noble families fight for power – features women being just as involved in the fight for power. The mention of these television series by no means tries to compare the west with Pakistan. Despite how diverse these shows are from one another, they have all been successful at some point, if not always, even in our country, without having to succumb to projecting women as weak figures or being subjected to domestic abuse. A show’s success doesn’t demand women at the forefront all the time. But, it doesn’t mean that they need to be victims of abuse either. What we need is a strong script, an explosive cast and an excellent storyline to keep us glued to the screen. Instead, it’s all about women falling to the ground or being screamed and shouted at, or damsels in distress that need to be rescued by a rich man in his Corolla. There is still much work to be done to improve on our dramas and if they are being outsourced to foreign countries, then they need to start radically depicting our women as human instead of fodder for abuse.

There is certain redemption in resurgence. A feeling of hope and of renewal, of things starting anew, of setting the old wrongs right. Pakistani cinema has come up by leaps and bounds in the last few years. From a struggling franchise engulfed in out-dated ideas desperately clinging on in order to survive and become a booming industry reminiscent of the golden days and a slight peek into the wondrous possibilities that lie ahead. Pakistani cinema has finally arrived and as a keen devotee of this resurrection it is apparent that the film industry is here to stay. Although the current situation resembles a bed of roses, not long ago it was a reflection of a barren lifeless orchard that had been left to dwindle and wither away. During 2003 and 2013, only a handful of cinematic productions took place. Low quality in terms of production, acting and direction reduced the industry to ruins. The diminishing number of production houses led to low receipts that significantly contributed to this downturn, eventually perpetuating a vicious cycle that threatened to deluge the industry into oblivion. However, in 2014 and the years that have followed, the industry reinvented itself. Crowd pleasers like Jawani Phir Nahi Ani (2015) and Na Maloom Afrad (2014) appealed to the masses accumulating record collections in cinema houses all over the country. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rBW7oZYgWRg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xnCQHQ_yHms For many detractors though, this upturn in fortune had been achieved at an astounding cost. The industry had sold its soul to the devil and had become a sell-out, but then came Manto (2015) and Moor (2015). The duo introduced new standards of acting and direction that had never been seen before in the industry, so brilliant in their execution that everyone was taken back. The controversially nuance poet was brought to life with his plays, a tearful yet eye opening journey was revealed for all to see – something that had not been divulged before but had been done so beautifully that no one could argue that it was not worth the wait. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tnfx42fxCZU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lla1lNt0wLI However, success thrives on continuity rather than on resting on one’s laurels. It was imperative for the industry to further extend this run that had people flocking to cinema houses once again; a welcome sight for sore eyes and a vision that for most part of the last decade seemed implausible. What followed were stories of friendship and of romance, of estranged love and of war that had people clambering for tickets. More so the success of the industry is a reflection of all those that are a part of it. With Pakistani films doing exceedingly well on local and international platforms, technicians and actors have been in high demand ever since. Numerous singers and actors have made the inauspicious journey across the border. Fawad Khan, with his heart throbbing looks and renowned acting skills has entranced Indian audience, while actresses such as the gorgeous Mahira Khan has left everyone drooling at her natural charisma and beauty – a reflection of the abundance of talent that resides behind these troubled borders. However, as any keen critic would postulate, it is paramount that we look through this veil and analyse as to what is happening at the grass roots. While talking to a keen cinema enthusiast, who has been associated with the industry for most of his life, he said the real emergence lies in schools and universities that are the true building blocks of this revolution. He cited how universities used to be breeding grounds for cinematic brilliance. How writers, directors and actors grew and evolved in an environment that was hospitable to their creative desires. However, ever since the 80s and even today, state restrictions and narrative coupled with increasing religious fanaticism in educational institutions has emasculated this approach and the consequences of which still haunt us as a nation. What resulted was a severe dearth of quality writers, artists and film makers that gave rise to the capitulation of the industry itself. More so among the numerous problems that the industry faced and still does is the lack of funding available to adventure into new avenues. What ensued was the use of obsolete technologies and indigent payoffs to writers, technicians and artists, thus consequentially leading to a crippling of the whole network upon which the film industry functions. Perhaps the most profound effect is the fact that despite the upturn in recent years, our film industry is still light years behind Bollywood or Hollywood. New and evolving methodologies, ingenious scripts (more so in the case of Hollywood) and most importantly professionalism have sent quality and revenues through the roof. Access to worldwide audiences and considerable star appeal significantly contributes to their upturn and is an aspect that our local industry severely lacks. As an inquisitive observer of what has been cooked up by the industry, I sincerely believe that despite the recent upturns, the industry and its constituents have a long way to go. It is vital for the industry to not trade stimulating and challenging scripts and projects for idiotic and vulgar sell-outs that, at best, leave a bitter taste in the viewer’s mouth. Maintaining a sense of uniqueness while being open to outside influence is in my opinion, the cardinal factor that will determine the future for our industry. However, more so it is perhaps how the industry handles this upsurge in fortune that will eventually decide if it will bear fruit. As a nation, we have often been accused of taking a back-step when what was required was to take control and move to the next level. Continuous improvements are essential in terms of quality, writing and acting. The small screen has already mirrored the success that our entertainment industry can accumulate. Learning from their blueprint and improving upon their mistakes, all the while encouraging young talent, can be the foundation upon which the industry can prosper. A welcome change in this regard is the approach adopted by the Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS). LUMS as the only established liberal arts institute in Pakistan has been a heretic and a safe haven for creative enthusiasts since its inception. Leading this thought process is the LUMS Media and Arts society or LMA. Evolving and getting bigger every year, the society spearheads numerous projects throughout the year. Ranging from dramatics to film making, the society takes a keen interest in what it assumes to be its responsibility in aiding the development of future artists by providing avenues to showcase their work. Perhaps their most riveting projects include the Filums (LUMS International Film Festival) and the documentary on the majestic hills of northern Pakistan that is to be released soon. Filums – hosted annually by the LUMS Media Arts Society (LMA), is one of the largest student-organised film festivals in South Asia. It serves as an important platform for the youth, upcoming filmmakers and enthusiasts to showcase their talent and come together to celebrate their passion. Filum brings together both amateur and aspiring filmmakers and experts of the field resulting in a nourishing and fulfilling experience for those involved. Although small in comparison to what the society envisions, for it to grow over the coming years, programs such as this, amongst others, mean LUMS has taken the first step towards a long, albeit rewarding journey ahead.