Category: Featured

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

On World Food Safety Day Cheezious announced the launch of “Special Kitchen Tour Series.” This initiative is designed to provide an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at our kitchen facilities, showcase the stringent Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) we follow, and highlight the extensive measures we take to maintain and elevate food safety standards.

As part of this, Cheezious planned a series of visits with various esteemed institutions to demonstrate our commitment to food safety and share best practices with the community. The teams of Punjab Government Technical Training Institute for Women, School of Public Health, Food Authorities & College of Tourism & Hotel Management (COTHM) visited our Islamabad & Lahore Cheezious Branches.

Head of Marketing Cheezious Zohaib Hassan said that “As a brand deeply committed to food safety and quality, we announced our ‘Special Kitchen Tour Series’ in honor of World Food Safety Day. This initiative allows us to transparently share our rigorous standards and practices with our community and stakeholders. We believe that by opening our doors and showcasing our dedication to excellence, we can inspire confidence and trust in our brand”. He further stated that, At Cheezious, we understand the importance of food safety and the vital role it plays in ensuring the well-being of our customers. Our “Special Kitchen Tour Series” is a testament to our ongoing efforts to uphold the highest standards in food safety and hygiene.

In this article, we delve into Behnam Khoshnazar’s unique insights into the art of storytelling and character development. Beyond the stage lights and cameras, Behnam’s perspective offers a glimpse into his approach to bringing characters to life.

Discover how Behnam views the intricate craft of storytelling. From the initial spark of an idea to the collaborative process of creating memorable characters, this article explores the nuanced world of narrative weaving.

Behnam’s ability to seamlessly portray characters in both English and Farsi stems from his deep understanding of storytelling. This article invites you to explore his thoughts on the importance of authenticity, relatability, and the impact a well-crafted story can have on audiences.

Pakistan (Muhammad Shoaib)

A magnificent exhibition of paintings by celebrated artist Kaleem Khan has enriched the visual art scene of the city. The exhibition is attracting visual art lovers at Art Next Gallery in DHA, the exhibition will remain on display till Jan 5 2024.

This gorgeous collection of paintings by Kaleem Khan offers a fascinating exploration of Quetta and its inhabitants. Khan’s focus on Quetta and its people is evident in the portraits capturing the daily life and the livestock meandering through the enchanting yet bewildering areas of Balochistan. The paintings brilliantly depict various seasons and the lifestyle of Quetta’s residents. Khan’s use of a colourful palette, coupled with strokes of dark grey and ochre, creates a contrasting play of light that effectively conveys the diverse moods of the city and its surrounding mountains. The exhibition drew the attention of many prominent artists such as Prof. Saeed Akhtar, a renowned artist and educator Qudoos Mirza, an art critic Rm Naeem, Jamil Baloch, and Ali Kazim and others.

The artist’s work communicates a profound statement of compassion and self-determination, prompting viewers to observe more closely and inspiring them to either pick up a paintbrush or be entranced by the captivating views of Quetta. The artist Kaleem Khan says about his work that he had memories of the days when he used to observe the coal mine workers, the ambiance of mountains, the gust of wind in the valley passing through the trees.

Everywhere hues of yellow and reds and the cool shadows of trees scattered all around and soon in winters the city environment transformed into a smokey grey.

By Muhammad Shoaib

According to Pablo Picasso, a Spanish painter, Painting is just another way of keeping a diary. The celebrated painter perhaps referred to a diary of dreams, that how one sees the world with one’s imagination and how Nature, colours and flowers impact the visualization of an artist. Every artist has its own vision and way to look at the world and the abundant beauty this world is blessed with.

Amera Rashid, a Lahore based, self taught artiste, who started romancing with brush and paints at the tender age of 10 is also one such soul who looks at the world with her own vision and enriches her canvas with vibrant colours, flowers exploring the liveliness of Mother Nature. She is a versatile visual artist having a fantastic grip on all mediums be it Oil, Watercolour, Acrylic, Fabric, Stain Glass or Mosaic. Though Ms Rashid is a self taught artist however, she had a knack for visual art right from her childhood that is why she did FA in Fine Arts from CB College, Rawalpindi and later did BA Honors in Textile Designing from Peshawar University back in 1984. Since she was a bright student right from her school days she did her Matriculation while securing third position in the Federal Board Exams.

 The artist says about her work “Painting is something that always relaxes me, it’s my self -expression focusing on painting allows me to relax and let go of all the problems and demands that may have led to stress. When I create my artworks I go with the flow of colours.  You see, every artist wants to make work that people care about. That’s why I put my best in my artworks to make them vibrant, colorful and close to the soul whispers”.  

Amera Rashid is of the view that young and upcoming artists are more into abstracts; they are not putting the kind of efforts which are needed to follow some single niche. Vibrant colours bring a rainbow of springs such colors are bright, energetic and bubbly that enhance the personality of a room.   

Sharing her feelings about how passionate she is towards visual art Amera Rashid said “ I am so in love with visual art and so infatuated with it that during Covid days ,I produced some 100 or so paintings out of which a big chunk was sold out”. The artist does not put on display physical exhibitions of her artworks however one can find her enriching, dreamy collection of artworks online as her works can be seen on her face book page, titled‘ Paintings by Amera Rashid’ and on Instagram under the heading, ‘ Paintings by Amo’. Her artwork details are available online. The minimum and maximum sale price of her different artworks ranges between Rs 20,000 to 80,000, quite affordable, not only to augment the attractiveness of gorgeous hospitality settings such as restaurants and hotels but also for the drawing rooms to fill happiness and positive energy into the atmosphere.

Lahore: Thursday, May 19, 2023.Punjab Central Business District Development Authority (PCBDDA), also known as Central Business District Punjab (CBD Punjab), an authority working on modern urbanization and vertical expansion has taken a unique approach in showcasing the legacy of the province, Punjab.
Whilst Punjab is shown as a vibrant mix of subcontinental culture in popular media, CBD Punjab has rekindled the spotlight on Punjab’s excellent development-rich history. From the ancient Punjab being a pivotal trade route in the grand scheme of the world, to the Mughals era creating architectural wonders and engineering marvels, to the key infrastructural developments of the 1800 and 1900s; the developmental excellence and legacy of Punjab has been carried forward by CBD Punjab by coining Punjab as the ‘Spirit of Opportunity’. CBD Punjab is taking the land of five rivers into its next era of development via sustainable and modern mega-projects.
The TVC also features visual representations of CBD Punjab’s future projects, including the tallest skyscraper ‘Sirius’, the medical facility ‘Sano’, the IT hub ‘Node’ in the Special Technology Zone being established in the near future, the branded residential tower ‘Regalia’ and much acclaimed retail district ‘Runway’. These projects aim to transform Lahore’s economic landscape and provide new opportunities for growth and development. The TVC has been aired on national and global media and has been praised by viewers for its quality production, camera work, and visuals.
Speaking about the TVC, the CEO of CBD Punjab, Imran Amin, said, “We are delighted to launch this unique TVC, it portrays our commitment to advancing economic and national development and creating a brighter future for all. Punjab being the largest province in terms of economy and population with a huge pool of skilled workforce always has immense potential of investments and CBD Punjab at this moment is driving the said potential. We have investment opportunities not just in vertical development but also in energy, health, hospitality, entertainment, and retail infrastructure.
This initiative aims to inspire and seek benefits of the opportunities that Punjab has to offer.”
With the launch of this TVC, CBD Punjab has set a new benchmark for the government sector in Pakistan. The authority aims to continue to lead the way in promoting economic and national development and inspiring people to take advantage of the opportunities that Punjab has to offer.
The TVC is part of a broader campaign by CBD Punjab, to promote economic and national development in Punjab. The authority is working on several projects aimed at upgrading the infrastructure, promoting business growth, and creating new job opportunities. The development of the Central Business District is a crucial part of this initiative, aimed at making Punjab a hub for global business and commerce.

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir)

Caretaker Chief Minister Punjab Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi visited the Kalma Chowk Remodeling and CBD Punjab Boulevard project in Lahore today to review the development progress. This visit was in continuation of the recent visit by the Prime Minister of Pakistan Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif to the same site.

During the visit, CEO CBD Punjab, Mr. Imran Amin, briefed the Caretaker Chief Minister Punjab, on the progress of the project. He informed the CM that the project is nearing completion. The project is expected to bring a significant change to the area, with improved traffic flow and aesthetic appeal. Caretaker Chief Minister Punjab instructed to complete the project and open the Ali Zaib Road barrel for traffic by May 5, 2023, at any cost.

Caretaker Minister for Housing & Urban Development Barrister Syed Azfar Ali Nasir, Chief Secretary Punjab, Zahid Akhtar Zaman, Secretary Housing and Urban Development Punjab, Captain. (R) Muhammad Zafar Iqbal, Secretary Planning, Muhammad Sohail Anwar Choudhary, Commissioner Lahore, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, Deputy Commissioner Lahore, Rafia Haider, CEO CBD Punjab, Mr. Imran Amin, COO CBD Punjab, Brigadier (R) Mansoor Janjua MD Wasa, Ghufran Chaudhry, Executive Director Commercial CBD Punjab, Muhammad Omer, Executive Director Technical CBD Punjab, Riaz Hussain, CCPO Lahore, SP Traffic Police Lahore, staff members from CBD Punjab, NLC and NESPAK, accompanied the Caretaker Chief Minister Punjab, during his visit. The Chief Minister expressed his satisfaction with the progress made thus far and emphasized the importance of completing the project on time.

The Kalma Chowk Remodeling and CBD Punjab Boulevard project is part of the government’s efforts to improve infrastructure and development in the province. The project aims to provide a modern and efficient transportation system while also improving the overall aesthetic of the area.

The media and the public have been eagerly following the progress of the project, and the Chief Minister’s visit has further highlighted the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure and development in the province. The project is a testament to the government’s vision for a modern and developed Punjab, and the Chief Minister’s visit today has once again demonstrated the government’s commitment to achieving this vision.

Lahore (NUT-Desk)

Pakistan is observing Youm-e-Ashura, Muharram 10, with due solemnity in remembrance of the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain amid tight security today and under the shadow of the coronavirus pandemic. 

The government has shut down mobile services in major cities of the country, including Karachi, Hyderabad, Quetta, and Sukkur to avoid any untoward incident. The main procession in Karachi will start from Nishtar Park and end at the Hussainian Iranian at Kharadar, with Allama Shahenshah Naqvi addressing it.

The participants of the procession will offer prayers at Tibet Centre, while all the connecting roads of MA Jinnah have been sealed off to provide security to the procession.

The processions will start at 9am in Hyderabad and Jhang, 10am in Faisalabad, 11am in Gujranwala and Rohri, 12pm in Sukkur and Khairpur. The processions have already started in Quetta at 8am and in Dera Ismail Khan at 7:30am.

Standard operating procedures (SOPs) have also been issued for the mourning processions to avert the spread of coronavirus, as the cases in the country increase due to the fourth wave of the pandemic.

Tight security arrangements are in place and all security-related departments have been alerted to avoid any untoward incident during the mourning processions, Radio Pakistan reported.

On the occasion, President Dr Arif Alvi said the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) is a symbol of determination and perseverance and urged the nation to rise above hatred, malice, and sectarianism in line with his teachings.

“We have to prepare ourselves for all kinds of sacrifices by becoming a metaphor of determination and stability for our religion, nation, and country,” the president said.

President Alvi said following such a pathway leads to success in the world and the hereafter, as he highlighted Ashura has a special place in the hearts of the Muslim Ummah. The grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), along with his family and other devoted companions, had sacrificed their lives while fighting the forces of tyranny and oppression, said President Alvi.

He said the immortal sacrifices had revived the spirit of Islam and even today, such character was a source of inspiration for the believers in the moments of trial and tribulation. He said the best way to pay homage to Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) was to pledge about conforming to life in accordance with his teachings.

Amid the fourth wave of COVID-19, he said, the nation must observe precautions, especially during the gatherings and processions of Ashura. He urged the public to adopt precautionary measures and SOPs issued by the government and to get vaccinated for their own protection.

Laohre (NUT-DESK)

The incident involving 400 men sexually harassing a woman at Lahore’s Minar-e-Pakistan has angered the nation including celebrities. The victim clothes were torn off and she was tossed in the air by the mob.

The incident came to light after a video went viral on social media, showing hundreds of men attacking a woman as she went to the park with four of her friends to celebrate Independence Day. Police have registered a case against 400 people allegedly involved in the incident.

The victim, along with her friends, was making a TikTok video in the park when hordes of men of all ages climbed a fence and attacked the woman.

Many celebrities took to Twitter to demand the higher ups to serve justice to the victim with some left completely speechless over the audacity of the perpetrators.

Mahira Khan demand quick justice.

I can’t believe what I just saw!!! I’ve said it before and I will say it again – make an example out of these men! #MinarePakistan

 

Mawra Hoccane shared her anger via a tweet.

I want to hear what the “not all men” brigade has to say this time!!! Hope this incident is dreadful enough to open your eyes..atleast this time there will be no judgement about the girl & how she could have AVOIDED the situation! Extremely DISGUSTED! Disturbing! #lahoreincident

Mansha Pasha tweeted.

This whole drama of why was she there and what was she wearing is getting really old and noone is buying it anymore. Sahi se eik hi dafa bol do, we dont want to do anything to protect women and we want to keep stripping you of dignity because we can.

7:20 AM · Aug 18, 2021

 

Imran Abass felt ashamed and petrified.

Disgusted, petrified, ashamed and speechless.. Quaid-e-Azam! We are sorry. #minarepakistan .

 

Osman Khalid Butt also demand justice.

Another day, another incident, another moment we find ourselves collectively hanging our heads in shame. Action, not just condemnation. Bring the perpetrators to justice.

1:11 AM · Aug 18, 2021

 

Haroon Shahid demanded quick action.

Robotic malfunction at #minar_e_pakistan Time to deactivate these robots I believe? @GovtofPunjabPK @OfficialDPRPP

 

Farhan saeed was Furious , Heartbroken.

Disgusted , Furious , Heartbroken , Ashamed ! Ashamed of being a man today , ashamed that the men of this country keep doing these horrible acts every other day, ashamed that the law of my country does not hang these predators so that this doesn’t happen again #MinarePakistan

3:58 AM · Aug 18, 2021

 

Lahore (Nut-Desk)

Samar Khan made history after becoming the first female cyclist to reach the K2 basecamp on a mountain bike. Khan announced the feat about five days ago on her Instagram, where she had been regularly updating her followers with pictures and lengthy posts about her journey. Terming the final leg of her quest as ‘Journey to Chogori’, Khan said, “The stage where prayers are answered or sometimes delayed, where I got to see the clear face of majestic Choghori, standing with grace.”

Chogori is the unofficial local name for K2, the second-highest peak in the world.

Khan started her journey towards the end of July, taking off on a mountain bike from Skardu on July 31. “This ride will be bumpy, rough and heavy but I have trained myself enough mentally and physically,” she had said.

She also shared why she wanted to cycle her way on a mountain bike through treacherous terrain, explaining, “Because, bicycling should be the way to commute around mountains, to cut our carbon footprint and to preserve our natural assets like glaciers and peaks.”

Updating her followers through her journey with ‘stage updates’, Khan offered insight into her cycling route, which included crossing the Baltoro glacier at 4000+meters at Urdukus, and battling extreme weather sickness at the height of 4319 meters at Ghoro 2.

“The path towards Urdukus brings the magnificent Baltoro Glacier, with its endless ups & downs covered with rocks and deep crevices… many water streams along the way with the flow and pressure of a huge river, waist-deep or sometimes more. And the water comes straight from glaciers, freezes ur feet in seconds,” she shared.

The last stage update ‘Doorway to Chogori’, as mentioned above, includes pictures of Samar standing tall with her mountain bike with the mighty K2 in the background. “After a long night of chasing oxygen and silent prayers, the morning brought me face to face with K2, with a lot of injuries and shivering cold but with a magnificent sight.”

 

 

Lahore (NUT-DESK)

US Tech Giant, Microsoft is challenging a decision to award a multi-billion-dollar cloud computing contract to its rival Amazon. US media reports said the contract valued at $10 billion is for modernizing storage of classified data at the National Security Agency (NSA).

“Based on the decision we are filing an administrative protest via the Government Accountability Office,” Microsoft said in response to an AFP inquiry.

“We are exercising our legal rights and will do so carefully and responsibly.”

NSA spokesperson said that it “will respond to the protest in accordance with appropriate federal regulations,” while Amazon declined to comment.

A post on the Government Accountability Office website showed that it is considering a protest filed by Microsoft in July concerning the NSA, but provided no details.

The move came as payback of sorts for Amazon successfully protesting a different $10 billion cloud computing contract that had been awarded to Microsoft.

The Pentagon in July scrapped the deal, known as the Joint Enterprise Defense Infrastructure (JEDI) contract, sidestepping a bitter dispute between Amazon and Microsoft over allegations of political bias that swayed the bidding.

Microsoft in late 2019 won the JEDI contract, sparking a challenge by Amazon on grounds that then president Donald Trump may have improperly influenced the outcome.

Amazon alleged it was shut out of the deal because of what it called Trump’s vendetta against the company and its chief executive Jeff Bezos.