LADIESFUND launched in Multan

Multan (Muhammad Yasir)

LADIESFUND launched in Multan with a who’s who of Southern Punjabi women. LADIESFUND President Tara Uzra Dawood came from Karachi to grace the occasion, which was hosted by SOS Multan founder Mahnaz Fareed Sheikh at the beautiful SOS Children’s Village Multan.

Inaugural LADIESFUND Multan members include include aforementioned Mahnaz Fareed Sheikh, Rahat Bano Multanikar T.I, Dr. Shafqat Abdullah Samtia, Saima Faisal, Filza Mumtaz, Anam Tajjamul, Sarah Danish, Dr. Mehnaz Khakwani, Rameen Anis, and Muneeza Manzoor Butt. Sarah Danish, founder of Sarah’s Cakes, created a stunning and delicious LADIESFUND Multan cake for the occasion which was cut and enjoyed by all. She also gifted Ms. Dawood a gift basket of her signature French maccarroons, Multani Sohan Halwa, and chocolate brownies with edible pictures of Ms. Dawood on them. Nighat Misbah’s Depilex was Beauty Partner for the event.

UBL to build Regional Office at Naya Nazimabad

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir)

United Bank Limited (UBL) – a leading bank of Pakistan, has acquired a 14,092 sq. yards commercial plot in Naya Nazimabad, Karachi, to build its regional office. Naya Nazimabad is located at the cusp of District West and Central of Karachi. The area is a major hub for the professional talent pool of the city and represents the largest enrolment at the city’s educational institutions. Naya Nazimabad is a master-planned gated community designed for integrated living for the middle and upper middle strata of Karachi. This transaction marks a major transformational addition to its character as now office space shall be added to its portfolio of residential, retail, social and entertainment related assets. This acquisition will allow UBL to attract professional talent from the area and utilize it more effectively. Its strategic location will substantially reduce the travel time and related stress for its employees. This is also likely to be, economically, highly effective for the bank. The plot is in close vicinity of world class retail, sports and social amenities. This acquisition highlights the foresightedness of UBL’s leadership and its commitment and its capacity to play a lead role in development and progress. It is anticipated that more professional and progressive organizations shall follow suit for timely capitalization of opportunities in terms of acquiring strategic locations for their operations.

Top attractions in Saudi that need to be on your 2024 travel list!

Private Tour on a Horse Carriage Followed by Dinner Under the Night Sky

Saudi’s very first UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hegra is an ideal destination for nature lovers and ecotourism enthusiasts. Covering 52 hectares, the destination features 131 breathtaking tombs and countless rock formations.

Visitors looking for an exclusive experience can hop on a horse carriage and witness the picturesque evening skies of Hegra as part of a private tour. Here, local Rawis or storytellers will guide tourists through and provide in-depth knowledge of Hegra’s fascinating history. From the monolithic tomb of Lihyan Son of Kuza to ancient banquet halls, one can immerse themselves into the architecture of this great Nabataean civilization.

What’s even better is that the evening comes to a close with a private dinner under the Hegra sky, with a never-seen-before starry landscape.

Scale Al Qarah Mountain

Located just a 25-minute drive east from Al Hofuf towards Al Ahsa National Park is the village of Al Qarah along with its mountain. At the awe-inspiring peak of Al Qarah Mountain, the Arabic interpretations of nearby place names take on a profound significance. Al Ahsa, the designation for the governorate, signifies ‘murmuring streams,’ while Hofuf, the principal city, conveys the meaning of ‘whistling wind.’

The summit elevates 75 meters from street level and 205 meters above sea level, yet reaching the top doesn’t demand significant effort, offering unmatched 360-degree vistas of Al Ahsa. What leaves visitors in awe is not just the view from the top of the mountain, but also its mystical caves. The caves are a result of the Al Qarah Mountain sitting at the eastern border of the Shadqam plateau, connecting to Kuwait and Iraq in the north and the Rub Al Khali desert in the south. Sub-aerial weathering, shaped by rain and rivers instead of groundwater, has led to its distinctive curves, caves, and mushroom-like shapes. This process has also created narrow canyons and tall interior passages within the mountain that are a must-see.

Exploring Diriyah’s newest dining destination

Located in the historical district of Diriyah is Bujairi Terrace, a premium luxury dining destination with a curation of 20 exquisite restaurants and cafes that overlook the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Al-Turaif – the birthplace of Saudi. 

Bujairi Terrace houses the finest cuisine options from around the world – Parisian cafés, African-inspired lounges, Thai street food, Cantonese fine-dining, and much more!

By the Sea

The Red Sea is known for its pristine landscape with the world’s fourth-largest barrier reef system, 90 untouched islands, mountains, and mangroves – all in one place. It is a one-stop destination for adventure, entertainment, and one-of-a-kind enriching experiences. And that’s not all! One also gets a chance to spot turtles, octopuses, and rare fish and enjoy water activities including snorkelling, scuba-diving, kayaking, and yachting.

The Red Sea is indeed a perfect spot for scuba diving expeditions to explore nearby wrecks and discovery sites. Adults can also flyboard against the beautiful Red Sea sunset.

The Pakistan Crescent Collective represents Pakistan’s official presence at the Cannes Film Festival

Modoxy Media, helmed by Three-time Emmy-nominated filmmaker and Pakistani Academy Selection Committee chairman Mohammed Ali Naqvi, launches ‘The Pakistan Crescent Collective’ At Cannes 2024:

Spotlighting and Championing Pakistani Cinema On A Global Stage London

Modoxy Media proudly announces The Pakistan Crescent Collective’s debut at the Cannes Film Festival from May 14th to 20th, 2024. The Pakistan Crescent Collective represents Pakistan’s official presence at the Cannes Film Festival, marking the first time the country has had a central hub. Its mission is to discover and nurture the next generation of talent, preserve film, and promote Pakistani and diaspora films globally, thereby advancing Pakistan’s visual culture. In recent years, Pakistan has made a significant impact at Cannes, starting with the Un Certain Regard Jury Prize winner ‘Joyland’ (2022), followed by last year’s ‘In Flames’ in the Director’s Fortnight section. Both films were Pakistan’s official submissions to the Academy Awards. The Pakistan Crescent Collective aims to build on this momentum by launching a robust and comprehensive program for the 77th Cannes Film Festival which includes a filmmaker panel discussion and event following the marche preview screening for the highly anticipated ‘The Glassworker’. ‘The Glassworker’ is a landmark for Pakistani cinema as the country’s first 2D hand-painted traditional film. Inspired by the iconic Japanese animation house, Studio Ghibli, director Usman Riaz describes ‘The Glassworker’ as a love letter to Japanese animation. Riaz, who founded Karachi-based Mano Studios, visited Studio Ghibli in 2015, which inspired him to start his own studio. The significance of this event is highlighted by Studio Ghibli receiving the Palme d’Or at this year’s Cannes Film Festival, and ‘The Glassworker’ being selected for its world premiere at the renowned Annecy International Film Festival next month. In addition, the Pakistan Crescent Collective is co-hosting the inauguration and reception for the world’s first South Asian Film Market, launched by the Oscar-qualifying Tasveer Film Festival. As part of the launch, Tasveer and the Pakistan Crescent Collective will co-host an exclusive speed networking event on the American Pavilion Terrace. Selected filmmaking teams will meet with established film financiers and funders to pitch their next project during a rapid round of networking, followed by a cocktail sundowner reception for all participants. This event is part of American Pavilion’s Global Lens Day. Mohammed Ali Naqvi, founder of Modoxy Media, emphasized the significance of Pakistan Crescent Collective, states, “As one of the only countries without a central hub at Cannes, it’s imperative to launch initiatives like The Crescent Collective. We are dedicated to championing Pakistani cinema and talent, both at home and abroad. It’s time to celebrate our own.” In recent years, Pakistani cinema and TV have seen a celebrated rise, marked by groundbreaking achievements. “The Legend of Maula Jatt” became the highest-grossing Pakistani film ever, shattering records domestically and globally. Hollywood has also seen increased Pakistani representation, with Mohammed Ali Naqvi co-executive producing two seasons of the Netflix top ten hit “Turning Point: The Bomb & The Cold War” and directing “The Accused: Damned or Devoted?”— the first Pakistani film nominated for a Primetime Emmy for Exceptional Merit in Documentary Filmmaking. “Ms. Marvel,” the first Muslim-American superhero series, also showcased Pakistani-American talent. Additionally, Iram Parveen Bilal’s “Wakhiri” and Fawzia Mirza’s “Queen of My Dreams” have made waves with their recent theatrical releases.

Tamasha to Livestream ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

Tamasha to Livestream ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, ICC Champions Trophy 2025, and All Major ICC Tournaments till 2025.

Tamasha, Pakistan’s largest homegrown OTT platform, has secured digital broadcasting rights from one of Pakistan’s leading media groups, HUM Network Limited (“HUM”) for all six ICC mega tournaments spanning the years 2024 and 2025, including the highly anticipated ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, ICC Champions Trophy 2025, ICC Test Men’s Test Championship, and all Women ICC events. The agreement was signed at Jazz headquarters in Islamabad between Tamasha and HUM, attended by Aamir Ibrahim, CEO of Jazz, and Duraid Qureshi, founder & CEO of HUM Network Limited.

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, co-hosted by the West Indies and the United States from June 2 to June 29, will include 55 matches. The highly anticipated Pakistan vs. India match is scheduled for June 9 in New York. Pakistan’s first match is against the USA on June 6 at the Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium, Dallas. Before the T20 World Cup, Pakistan will play three T20 matches against Ireland in Dublin from May 10 to May 14, followed by a four-match series in England from May 22 to May 30, serving as crucial warm-up games. Babar Azam will captain the Pakistan side in the T20 World Cup.

While commenting on Tamasha securing digital broadcasting rights for the ICC tournaments, Aamer Ejaz, Chief Digital Officer at Jazz, stated, “We are incredibly excited to bring the free HD livestreaming of the ICC mega tournaments for millions of passionate cricket fans across Pakistan. Tamasha has always been dedicated to providing top-notch entertainment, and the new development reaffirms our commitment to delivering unparalleled viewing experiences. With the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 and all the upcoming ICC events now part of our lineup, we’re poised to set new standards in digital streaming.”

Also sharing his thoughts on the development, Duraid Qureshi, CEO, HNL, said, “We are thrilled to join hands with Tamasha, Pakistan’s premier homegrown OTT entertainment platform, for digital streaming of all major ICC tournaments till the end of 2025. Pakistani audience along with Ten Sports will have an opportunity of watching cricket matches live on Tamasha. In this partnership we aim to reach out to a wider audience and promote the digital viewing habits of Pakistanis, bringing the exhilarating experience of ICC tournaments directly to the fingertips of millions, fostering a new era of connectivity and passion for cricket across the nation.”

Tamasha has solidified its position as the top choice for live sports streaming, with over 26 million viewers tuning in for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023. It reached #1 on both the Apple App Store & Google Play Store, peaking at 8.5 million daily active users and 21 million monthly active users during the tournament, capturing 80% of the viewership among seven digital platforms. The platform previously streamed events like the ICC T20 World Cup (2022), FIFA World Cup (2022), Asia Cup 2023, ICC World Cup 2023, and HBL PSL seasons 8 and 9. In 2023, “Tamasha” was the second most searched tech term on Google, just after ChatGPT.

Viewers can effortlessly catch the ICC T20 World Cup action on Tamasha through its user-friendly Android and iOS apps or website. With the added convenience of a casting feature, fans can enjoy matches on their smart TVs for an immersive experience. Tamasha boasts a rich library of entertainment content, including Live TV Channels, Pakistani and international movies, captivating web series, and exclusive Tamasha Originals, ensuring there’s something for every taste. By consistently providing great content, Tamasha remains the top choice for sports fans and entertainment lovers alike.

 

Dawood Global Foundation distributes 155 wheelchairs throughout Southern Punjab

Multan (Nut Desk)

Dawood Global Foundation (DGF) distributes 155 wheelchairs throughout Southern Punjab. 50 were donated to Sheikh Zyed Hospital Rahim Yar Khan, 50 to Bahawalpur Victoria Hospital and 55 Wheelchairs at Nishtar Hospital, Multan. This initiative aims to enhance accessibility and mobility for patients in need, furthering the foundation’s commitment to supporting healthcare and promoting inclusivity. The distribution ceremonies were graced by various dignitaries and was graced by esteemed dignitaries Muhammad Saif, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Multan. The various MS of each hospital presided over the ceremonies, and at Nishtar Hospital, those present included Prof. Dr. Mehnaz Khakwani, Vice Chancellor of Nishtar Medical University and Hospital Multan;; Prof. Dr. Rashid Qamar Rao, Principal of Nishtar Medical University and Hospital Multan; Dr. Muhammad Kazim Khay, Medical Superintendent of Nishtar Hospital Multan; Dr. Muhammad Iqbal, Medical Superintendent of Ch Pervaiz Elahi Institute of Cardiology Multan; Dr. Abdul Wali, Secretary to VC; Muhammad Haneef, Member of Pakistan National Polio Plus Committee, Rotary International; Dr. Muhammad Zahid, AMS Purchase; Dr. Shahzaman, AMS M & R; and Dr. Ali Mehdi, AMS Burn Unit. These wheelchairs are part of Dawood Global Foundation’s initiative and mission to distribute 10,000 wheelchairs to hospitals and paraplegics and with this donation, the project crosses 3,650 wheelchairs donated and distributed to date. 

A Cinematic Journey Across Europe: European Film Festival (EUFF) Returns to Four Cities across Pakistan

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)
Film buffs across Pakistan will have the experience of a lifetime, yet again, to relish unique, never-before-seen films from all over Europe at the 3rd European Film Festival (EUFF) 2024, commencing on 15 May 2024 at the Pakistan National Council of Arts (PNCA) in Islamabad, followed by Peshawar, Quetta and Gujrat, between 16 and 29 May 2024.
 
The film festival will showcase over 20 films from European Union member states of diverse genres, from comedy to thrillers, from documentary to fiction, based on wide-ranging themes such as family, childhood, romance, friendship, climate change, history, war, economic hardship, human rights, disability and whatnot, as well as a few equally exciting Pakistani short films by emerging filmmakers and studios. Each film included in the festival is carefully handpicked to cater to an audience with an appetite for stories with a global appeal, and for vicarious pleasure in film watching. EUFF 2024 will provide the golden opportunity for Pakistani audiences to rediscover Europe, its rich and diversified culture, and its modern and adaptive societies.  
 
The film screenings will be followed by interesting panel discussions in each city which will bring the audience face to face with some of the best names from the Pakistani film and television industry, be it filmmakers, writers or actors, who will deliberate about topics of interest and relevance to the public which can be addressed through the medium of visual storytelling. In Islamabad, renowned playwright Bee Gul, brilliant actor Sarwat Gilani, and rising star Ali Junejo will shed light upon how the world can be viewed through films and the importance of gaining a global perspective. The discussion will be moderated by the celebrated presenter, Omar Khalid Butt. Other prominent personalities will also join the festival, with Sania Saeed and Zafar Mairaj participating in Quetta, Irfan Khoosat, Tamkenat Mansoor and Faseeh Bari Khan in Gujrat, and Uzma Hassan, Mustafa Afridi, Fizza Ali Meerza and Saife Hassan in Peshawar.
 
The festival also brings with it, in each city, a masterclass titled “Decoding European Cinema” by none other than the budding filmmaker, writer and actor Ali Junejo. The masterclass is open and free for aspiring and practicing filmmakers, to help improve the understanding of world cinema and professional capacity building in the local film industry.
Other interesting features of the EUFF 2024 are interactive installations to satisfy the recreational appetite of the audience, and a range of food stalls to satisfy physical hunger.  
EUFF 2024 is open and free for the public, and will be held on the following dates at these venues:
 
– 15 May, Pakistan National Council of Arts, Islamabad
– 17 May, Iqra National University, Peshawar
– 23 May, Noori Naseer Khan Cultural Complex, Quetta,
– 29 May, University of Gujrat, Gujrat
The 3rd European Film Festival (EUFF) 2024 is curated and organized by Olomopolo Media, a leading platform for cultural and creative expression through performing arts and visual media as tools for social awareness, sensitization and advocacy and awareness with the aim to create room for collective ethical development and socio-cultural sophistication.v

PTCL’s ‘Flash Fiber’ Reaches 500,000 User Milestone, Reflecting Rapid Growth

Islamabad – May 10, 2024: Pakistan’s fastest Fiber-To-The-Home (FTTH) service, PTCL’s Flash Fiber has demonstrated swift growth to reach the milestone of 500,000 customers nationwide. The service revolutionizes internet connectivity in Pakistan, besides offering a host of integrated ICT services to transform the experience of its customers.

PTCL Group is rapidly expanding its fiber network in Pakistan, upgrading from copper to improve digital experiences and customer satisfaction. Currently, PTCL’s Flash Fiber service links 79 cities across the nation and is expanding further. Flash Fiber achieved this milestone at an unmatched pace in Pakistan’s telecom sector, highlighting its exceptional popularity due to its rapid speeds, flawless connectivity, and a range of complementary digital offerings, such as PTCL Group’s premier OTT service, SHOQ.

Celebrating this significant milestone, Hatem Bamatraf, President and Group CEO of PTCL & Ufone 4G, expressed, “We are thrilled by the enthusiastic response to our FTTH service ‘Flash Fiber’, which is designed to revolutionize user experiences, support smart home setups and enhance digital lifestyles in Pakistan. We firmly believe that high-speed and reliable internet connectivity acts as a catalyst for economic growth and social advancement, as it drives a substantial portion of the economy and opens doors to progress and development. We are strategically expanding our fiber network with the aim of making high-quality connectivity easily accessible to every internet user in Pakistan.”

High-speed connectivity also touches upon softer aspects including leisure and entertainment. On the back of Flash Fiber’s blazing speeds, PTCL is enriching user experience by providing premium content through its IPTV (SHOQ TV) and OTT App (SHOQ) services. Flash Fiber customers can also enjoy Flash Eye Security Solution for their house or office that is designed to meet all their security needs. Not only this, but Flash Fiber customers can also avail medical insurance.

PTCL’s FTTH service provides fastest connectivity that fosters innovation and drives socio-economic growth. The widespread adoption of fiber connectivity presents a valuable opportunity to unlock Pakistan’s growth potential across agriculture, health, education, e-commerce, entrepreneurship, and the digital economy, promoting sustainable and inclusive progress. 

Meezan Bank and Roche Pakistan Join Forces to Combat Breast Cancer

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir)

Meezan Bank, Pakistan’s first and largest Islamic Bank, has joined hands with Roche Pakistan, one of the world’s leading biotech companies, in an initiative aimed at alleviating the financial burden of breast cancer treatment for patients across Pakistan.

Breast cancer remains a critical health challenge in Pakistan, claiming numerous lives and impacting countless families each year. Recognizing the urgency of addressing this pressing issue, Meezan Bank has pledged its unwavering support to ease the financial strain associated with diagnosis, medication, and therapy for affected individuals and their families.

The primary aim of this sponsorship is to offer the finest medical services to breast cancer patients. Additionally, it endeavors to educate individuals on navigating financial obstacles and accessing treatment seamlessly, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Acknowledging the urgent need for intervention, Meezan Bank has taken action to extend a helping hand. Through collaboration with Roche Pakistan, the Bank is enabling access to essential breast cancer treatment, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder patients from receiving crucial care.

Exciting News: realme Announces Price Reduction on C51 Variants in Pakistan!

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

realme, recognized globally and locally as the fastest-growing smartphone brand, is offering an incredible opportunity for its customers with a price reduction of PKR 2000 on each variant of its popular realme C51 smartphone. As a part of its ongoing commitment to provide innovative and stylish technology at the most competitive prices, realme has made the following price adjustments:

realme C51 128GB + 4GB: Now available for PKR 27,999

realme C51 64GB + 4GB: Now available for PKR 25,999

realme C51 64GB + 3GB: Now available for PKR 23,999

The realme C51, part of the coveted C-Series lineup, has already turned heads as the most stylish entrant in its price segment. The device sets new benchmarks for innovation, quality, and style with its iconic features.

Pakistan’s First-Ever Mini Capsule: The realme C51 brings the revolutionary Mini Capsule feature to Android smartphones in Pakistan, enhancing user experience with more intuitive interactions.

Slimmest and Lightest in Its Class: The realme C51 is the slimmest and lightest smartphone in its segment, offering a comfortable grip for a seamless, on-the-go lifestyle.

33W SUPERVOOC Charge: Experience lightning-fast charging with 33W SUPERVOOC Charge, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity.

50MP AI Camera: Capture every moment in vivid detail with the 50MP AI Camera, equipped with features like HDR and panorama for a complete photography experience.

The realme C51 embodies excellence in smartphone technology, with each variant offering a seamless user experience at an incredible value. With the latest price reduction, the realme C51 is now more accessible to those seeking an innovative, stylish, and quality smartphone.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity! Visit your nearest retailer or shop online to upgrade to the realme C51 today and explore a new level of smartphone experience.