Category: Entertainment

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir)

Rehan Siddiqi, the Most Popular Overseas Pakistani & CEO Hum FM, had a special meeting with the chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, former Prime Minister Imran Khan, in Lahore.

On this occasion, the current situation in Pakistan and the efforts of overseas Pakistanis were discussed, while the special efforts of overseas Pakistanis in the restoration and damage caused by the floods in Pakistan were appreciated. Siddiqi, who introduces Pakistani artists to the world, organizes events for them, and works with Pakistani NGOs, building houses for flood victims with the Mee Sahara Foundation. The foundation is also working for the university and the hospital.

Rehan Siddiqi is a world renowned Most Popular Overseas Pakistani & CEO Hum FM who has introduced many emerging and leading singers, artists to global Audience. Rehan is actively working for promotion of Pakistani music and arranging tours of Pakistani musicians to America, Canada, UK and other countries.Abida Parveen, Ali Azmat, Ali Zafar , Hadiqa Kiani, Abrar ul Haq, Mehwish Hayat and many others artists have worked with him and share very cordial relations with him. Rehan is planning is gearing up for his new work assignments which includes abroad music tours with leading singers in coming months.

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

ALLAHYAR and the 100 Flowers of GOD, an animated feature film is all set to release on 02nd June 2023. It is an action thriller and is equally encompassed with science-fiction, adventurism and will be the first ever Pakistani stereoscopic 3D film. The movie is produced by 3rd World Studio, Islamabad.

The movie is a sequel of ALLAHYAR and the Legend of Markhor, a much-celebrated animated masterpiece released back in the year 2018.

The story follows Allahyar, a young boy from northern areas of Pakistan, who along with his best friend Hero (Chakor), travels to a new world in order to rescue his father from a race of ruthless, tree /wood -poaching robots. The film talks about climate change, clean renewable energy and stresses the importance of trees and forests for a better green future. It equally touches other key issues like social inequality, injustice and the value of friendship and unity.

The movie features a star voice-over cast, including Humayun Saeed, Ali Zafar, Iqra Aziz, Meera, Bushra Ansari, Nadia Jamil, Anum Zaidi, Azlan Uzair, and the talented Azfar Jafri, whereas Ali Zafar, Ali Noor, Sanam Marvi, Bushra Ansari and Grehen, the Band are the vocals of this film.

Uzair Zaheer Khan, the talented writer, director and producer of the film stated; “Alhamdulillah” we’ve taken this film to the next level, from entertainment value, visual appeal and storytelling to production quality, we hope that the audiences will love this animated work of art more than our last film.”

Nadeem Mandviwalla, the executive producer and distributor for AY100FOG stated; “We at Mandviwalla entertainment have always tried to bring to the audience films which are unique and have a distinctive entertainment value for cinema-lovers. It is surely going to be a great pride for us to distribute and release the first 3D film of Pakistan”.

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

Zoha Rahman, of Spider-Man: Far From Home fame, joined the team of “Foundations” in New York as a consultant and shadow director, coaching actors and bringing authenticity to the set while shooting the pilot. Foundations is a proof-of-concept for a TV show set and shot in New York. The story revolves around the journey of a Muslim student who tries to interpret the world as black and white, but is thrown into situations by his college professor, teaching him how to navigate the grey areas he never could’ve imagined. It’s a philosophical dramedy rooted in theory and reality.

Foundations is Executive Produced by director Bassam Tariq, of Mogul Mowgli and Marvel’s Blade. It is written and directed by Laith Devjiyani, a Director’s Assistant at Marvel Studios, and Co-Written by Ikra Zulfiqar, Script Coordinator for an untitled show at A24.

This is an opportunity for Zoha to showcase her talents behind the camera and to be a part of a new and exciting international project. Overall, Zoha Rahman is making waves in the film industry, she has already featured in Marvel, and in shows on Netflix and Apple TV, as well as in Bollywood film ‘83. Her latest short film ‘Eid Mubarak’ has been acquired by Disney’s Creator+ and is premiering at Children’s Film Festival in Seattle. Her work on the highly-anticipated feature film ‘Dirty Angels’ will be seen later this year, and her role as a consultant and shadow director on this new project in New York are all proof of her talent and hard work, we can expect to see more great work from her in the future

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

The Pride of Performance winner Sahir Ali Bagga one of the most sought-after music artist in Pakistan – with an illustrious resume that speaks for itself. He has composed music for Pakistani blockbusters including “Dukhtar” and “Jawani Phir Nahi Ani” to name a few. He is widely credited with redefining wedding music with groovy hits such as “Baazi”, Malang, Badnamiyan and “Dhola.” The versatile musician has finally shared sneak peek into his next melodious venture with an official poster, and we couldn’t be more excited! The yet-to-be released song, titled, “Washmallay,” is one of Bagga’s most ambitious and challenging project to date with longtime collaborator Aima Baig. It features lyrics in Urdu and Punjabi with an added touch of Balochi, according to Bagga, who describes the song as a “magnificent combination of our three great languages.” “Washmallay encapsulates a sweet yet civil interaction between two lovers complemented by a special beat we call the Pakistani or ‘Leva’ beat. We have somewhat modified the beat for listeners to enjoy. It’s truly amazing what we have created, and I hope our fans will enjoy the latest offering,” said Sahir Ali Bagga. “The song is a festivity in its own right. The music video is larger than life as well, showcasing and promoting our amazing culture in the best possible way. Even the lead singers, that being Aima and myself, are grooving in a way that’s very much authentic to our culture.” The song is directed by Adnan Qazi while the styling is done by Ali Xeeshan.

 

Lahore (Qasim Ali)

The Punjab Institute of Language, Art and Culture ( PILAC) launched prominent playwright Shahid Nadeem’s book “Baghi Dramay” on 9 February. Eminent artist Dr Ajaz Anwar presided the book launch event held at PILAC’s Punjab Auditorium. Speakers included PILAC Director General and well-known poet Dr Sughra Sadaf, noted Punjabi Scholar Iqbal Qaiser, leading publisher and activist Farrukh Sohail Goindi, Ajoka General Secretary Sohail Warraich, popular theatre and TV actor Tahira Imam and Director Ajoka Institute Nirvaan Nadeem.

The book includes Shahid Nadeem’s acclaimed play on Bhagat Singh, “Mera Rang Day Basanti Chola”; an experimental play on the Bhatta kiln workers “Itt”; a play on honour killings, “Kari”; a play about the cultural rights of women “Chal Melay Noo Chaliay” and “ Marya Hoya Kutta”, Nadeem’s first play.

The event started with Ajoka singers presentation of songs from the Bhagat Singh play. Sohail Warraich spoke about Nadeem’s development as a socially committed playwright and his contribution as an in- house playwright for Ajoka.
Iqbal Qaiser, in his paper, evaluated the plays included in the book and stated that Shahid Nadeem’s an outstanding Punjabi playwright who is admired for his forward-looking ideas and innovative techniques. Actress Tahira Imam, who has played major roles in several plays included in the book, told the audience how Nadeem’s plays had inspired actors in developing their talent and their social awareness. Farrukh Sohail Goindi spoke about Nadeem’s political radicalism and bold themes of his plays. He particularly referred to the play on Bhagat Singh and the way it was linked to contemporary times and new Bhagat Singhs. Actor-trainer Nirvaan Nadeem, who had played major leading roles in his father’s plays including the role of Bhagat Singh, said theatre is a great art form to entertain and educate the audience.
Dr Sughra Sadaf said PILAC said privileged to publish Nadeem’s acclaimed Punjabi plays so that the message of hope and enlightenment is widely spread and inspire the younger generation.

Extracts from Indian Punjabi theatre personality, Kewal Dhaliwal, was read out by Punjabi poetess Sofia Bedar. Dhaliwal said that Shahid Nadeem plays are performed all over India and several of his plays are included in the syllabi of universities. He said that Nadeem is regarded at par with leading Indian playwrights such as Badal Sircar, Girish Karnak, Mahesh Elkenchwar and Gursharan Singh.

Veteran journalist Sarwar Sukhera, poetess Sarwat Mohyuddin, Ajoka actors actors Naseem Abbas and Usman Zia also congratulated Shahid Nadeem and PILAC on the launching of the book. At the end of the event Shahid Nadeem signed copies of the book.

Shahid Nadeem in his remarks talked about the meaning of “Baghi” which related to challenging the ideological and political establishment of the time and breaking out from the walls of control and indoctrinations. Dr Ajaz Anwar, in his presidential remarks, paid tribute to Nadeem’s defiance through theatre and activism.

A book launch of Shahid Nadeem’s book of Urdu plays “Hum Dekhain Gae” will be held as part of the Pakistan Literature Festival, in Alhamra Hall 3 on Sunday 12 February at 4 pm.

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

OLOMOPOLO Media is officially showcasing its hit theatrical production, “Both Sit In Silence For a While” featuring renowned actors Ali Junejo and Rasti Farooq at Gallery 11, PNCA in Islamabad. The play is a dark comedy written, directed, and co-produced by Ali Junejo. Having garnered great success in Karachi and Lahore, the play is now being performed in Islamabad, with the collaboration of the European Union.

‘Both Sit in Silence for a While’ guarantees spectators an edge-of-your-seats experience they would not want to miss.

Voicing his take on the play Junejo states that, “‘Both Sit In Silence For A While’ is a play born of many little musings and maybe some reflection. All the fun ‘what if’s’ I could throw at these two, I chucked at them mercilessly. To see what would happen.” Junejo started his career as a theater artist in Karachi. His previous performances include, ‘Waiting for Godot’, ‘Dead End’ and ‘Equus’. Junejo then made his film debut in Saim Sadiq’s international award-winning film ‘Joyland’, bagging two best actor awards.

Rasti Farooq, who acts alongside Junejo and is also the co-producer of this play comments, “Both Sit In Silence For A While tickles that part of my brain that wants to see people be unreasonable and merciless with one another. Because oftentimes that’s the place where most of us hide in our most private moments. It’s been a supreme joy traversing that space with Ali.” Applauded for her commendable acting, Farooq has performed in various plays and short films including ‘Stand Alone’, ‘Gidh’ and ‘May I Have This Seat?’ She made her feature film debut in with Junejo in ‘Joyland’.

Co-producer Kanwal Khoosat comments, “Join us for when words are more than we wanted yet less than what we need! OLOMOPOLO is breaking barriers as usual bringing you an unconventional story, an intimate audience experience, and a boundary-bending take on being coupled”.

On the collaboration, H.E. Dr. Riina Kionka, The Ambassador of the European Union to Pakistan comments, “The European Union supports art and culture in Pakistan and globally as part of our commitment to promoting cultural diversity and fostering mutual understanding between people of different backgrounds. We believe that it can help to foster a sense of shared identity and belonging, to build bridges between different communities based on mutual recognition and respect.”

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

Actor Wahaj Ali has become a sensation on the internet as his two dramas, “Mujhe Pyaar Hua Tha” and “Tere Bin,” are trending on YouTube. The latest episode of “Mujhe Pyaar Hua Tha” has taken the top spot at #1, while Episodes 11 and 12 of “Tere Bin” follow closely behind at #2 and #3. Fans are amazed by Wahaj’s outstanding acting abilities, and his character portrayals of Saad in “Mujhe Pyaar Hua Tha” and Murtasim in “Tere Bin” have struck a chord with audiences. Wahaj Ali is known for his versatile acting abilities, and his portrayals of Saad in “Mujhe Pyaar Hua Tha” and Murtasim in “Tere Bin” have cemented his position as one of the most talented actors in the industry.

The combination of these two popular dramas has made 2023 a year to remember for Wahaj Ali and his fans. The popularity of Wahaj Ali’s dramas, “Mujhe Pyaar Hua Tha” and “Tere Bin,” is not just limited to Pakistan but has also spread across the borders, making a mark in India and Bangladesh. His impeccable acting skills and captivating performances have not only trended on YouTube in these countries but have also garnered a huge following and appreciation from audiences across the region.

The popularity of both of Wahaj’s dramas on YouTube is a testament to his popularity and talent as an actor. With 2023 being the year of Wahaj Ali, fans can expect to see more of his exceptional acting skills in the coming months. The response to his dramas has been overwhelmingly positive, and it is clear that audiences are eager to see more from this talented actor.

The music streaming giant recently crossed 200 million paid subscribers globally with the overall listener base expected to cross 500 million by March 2023.

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir) According to a recent report published by Data Darbar, an independent market intelligence platform, Spotify has made up more than half of all 23.5 million app downloads in the audio streaming category becoming the most downloaded audio streaming app in Pakistan for 2022.

Spotify’s growth in the country has reflected in its wide range of personalized features and offerings introduced specifically for the Pakistani market. The platform’s innovative pricing model, that once again, was the first localized version for any major streaming service, made it an instant success in Pakistan. With options like carrier billing, the streaming service made itself uniquely accessible to the masses. On top of that, Spotify’s diligent focus on catering to the Gen-Z by promoting a host of emerging, fresh talent in the country has enabled it to carve a unique place in the hearts of Pakistani listeners. 

The music streaming giant recently announced its Q4 earnings, according to which, it crossed 200 million paid subscribers as well with the overall listener base expected to cross 500 million by March 2023.

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir) Renowned singer Melody Queen Shahida Mini has released her new song “Mein Nah Jamdi” all over the world including Pakistan. Music director Mujtaba Ali composed the music in which singer Shahida Mini and model Ali Jamshed modeld the song as a tribute to renowned music director Master Abdullah of the film industry. The music of the song “Mein Nah Jamdi” was composed, which is now recorded by singer Shahida Mini in her beautiful voice and its video has been released all over the world. That every artist has some idol by which he is very influenced, in the world of singing Queen Tarnam Noor Jahan is my favorite singer and I consider her as my spiritual teacher. has presented a tribute to the music of It is being loved by the world and my fans. On this occasion, the producer of this song Noman Rauf said that the music of Pakistan film industry is so wonderful in every respect that every song of the past has its own identity. We have created a beautiful song for modern music and new listeners, which is getting a great response from music lovers as soon as it is released.

While this song is directed by director Suhaib Roy, its music is composed by Mujtaba Ali Produce by Noman Rauf.