“Support those in Need” – Depilex CEO, Masarrat Misbah Appeals  To followers, Clients, and Colleagues

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir) The coronavirus pandemic has caused massive upheaval across the world. We see a spike in the number of deaths each day. The spread of virus hasn’t just threatened our health and safety systems but it has started to impact economies hugely. As businesses around the world take a hit, things are not easy for many. In such times, steady and compassionate leadership is required.

A splendid example of which we saw from the CEO of Depilex Salon Ms.Masarrat Misbah. She put out a wonderful statement for her clients, followers & colleagues, in which she stressed that we have to be extremely cautious in this situation and behave in a way this grave situation demands. https://www.instagram.com/p/B_eiZMODauM/?igshid=xxghhnh0u2tx

“We as a nation are under the biggest test ever witnessed. We are under immense duress and this is the time to come together and show a united front to control & overcome this pandemic we face. We have to be extremely cautious and impart guidance to all who require,” she said.

She also urged everyone to be careful and act as a responsible citizens. This crisis is bigger than we have ever faced and it can only be fought off it people follow the guidelines put out by experts.

“Each positive word counts and every well thought out plan stands to be heard. I request you all to act responsibly, be vigilant and play your part in helping those who might need your support at this difficult time,” CEO of the Depilex said in a heart touching appeal.

At a time of calamity, societies look towards people of wisdom to show them the direction. With this statement, she has delivered a message of hope but also reminded all of us that where we go from here, is entirely in our own hands. 

Depilex Group gives Guidelines For Salons to Ensure Social distancing

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir) As the coronavirus pandemic shut down cities and cloistered people indoors around the world, reports of the number of coronavirus cases are rising, so are fears for workers in the beauty industry. The beauty sector is a significant and emerging industry that enables thousands of young boys and girls within the trade to benefit and earn their livelihood. Fear of the coronavirus has led people to stockpile hand sanitizer and skip handshakes, but people still want to look their best, and the beauty industry can’t work from home.

On the one hand, when Quarantine has cut people off from their daily life in ways that are both immediately obvious and imminently catastrophic.In this regard, the Depilex beauty group has come forward to play their part in fighting this situation by supporting the government as well as the people in these difficult times. They have introduced Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) according to the international standards of WHO that not only ensure the safety of customers and salon but also ensure a safe workplace for the service providers i.e., the salon staff. The director of the group, Redah Misbah appeared in an interview to discuss what can be done to fight this pandemic.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XGbjtT3OK6c&feature=youtu.be

There are three in-depth documents ensuring health safety and hygiene. The main features include safe service to the esteemed clients by booking appointments to avoid the rush. Filling up questionnaires to know about the clients’ one-month history, their routine (traveling or if they had a cough or a fever, symptoms of pneumonia caused by the virus).Taking high standards for keeping the business clean, i.e., sterilization of tools, equipment, brushes, scissors, etc.The cleaning would be done on an hourly basis that includes disinfecting doorknobs, bathrooms, and all surfaces that customers touch. 

These procedures are carefully developed by a team of their top professionals who have vast and cumulative expertise of providing the best in the business while keeping in mind standards of health and safety precautions. The beauty business is a way for women all across Pakistan to sustain and support their families; therefore, Depilex beauty salon is opting to keep it alive as the country faces economic struggles.

Depilex Beauty Clinic isn’t protesting to lift the lockdown, but they are appealing to the government to review, consider, and circulate their SOPs among the masses. They want the entire industry to be prepared as a whole to fight the pandemic; therefore, they have shared these documents openly at the government level and hope that salons shall be allowed to operate if they strictly take the necessary precautions.

 

 

 

Warda Unstitched Embroidered 3 Piece Review

Warda retail store was established in 2006 by Wardha Saleem, a Pakistani fashion designer. The fashion house initially stocked casual unstitched printed and embroidered lawn fabrics as well as formal wear in both printed and embroidered variety.

Today Warda has expanded its collections and includes ready to wear pret as well as separates variety for trousers. Ladies can easily buy a single shirt piece or 2 piece dupatta and shirt and match it with the trousers in the separates section. The fashion house also offers a wide collection of accessories, jewellery and handbags to match with the ensembles. 

Unstitched Embroidered 3 Piece Suits

As the summer season is fast approaching, Warda has launched its unstitched lawn collection that features printed designs and embroidered fabrics in traditional Chikan Kari embroidery technique as well as modern silk threadwork, zari thread work and colourful cotton thread work etc. Warda unstitched embroidered 3 piece collection offers its clients the best of the traditional eastern aesthetic in full 3 piece suits.

Price Range

The embroidered suits range from PKR 4700 to as low as PKR 2900 for a tastefully well composed 3 piece ensemble. This is one of the most affordable price range where other designers are selling the same thing with double the price and delivery charges.

Colour & Embroidery

Shirt fabrics include embroidered motifs on the neckline, sleeves and in some cases on the front panel too. The colours used are thankfully not too loud and range from earthy tones to fresh bright colours. The embroidered motifs feature ethnic patterns and darker tones that make them stand out on the otherwise earthy base colour. It is refreshing to see lime greens, light sea greens and cool pink shades also as they look great in summers.

Fabric Quality & Measurements

The fabrics used are soft pure lawn for shirts and trousers whereas the dupattas come in flowy chiffon, weaved cotton or lawn fabrics. The standard shirt measurement for unstitched fabrics offered by other designers is not more than 2.5 meters. Warda is one of the first brands to introduce 3-meter shirt fabrics, keeping the taller as well as plus-sized ladies in mind. A typical 3 piece embroidered fabric includes:

– 3-meters shirt fabric

– 2.5-meters trouser fabric

– 2.5-meters dupatta 

Warda 3 Piece Embroidered Sale

It is amazing to see Warda offering sale and discounted prices on its 3 piece embroidered suits a month after launch. This is done to facilitate users so that everyone can have their hands on a Warda suit. Warda is currently offering up to 23% discount on a number of 3 piece suits, bringing down the price from Rs.4,995 to Rs.3,846 and from Rs.3,795 Rs.2,922.

Presents its Latest Spring Summer Collection at Dolmen Mall, Clifton

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir) J. presented its Spring Summer Collection Vol. I at Dolmen Mall, Clifton, on Saturday in Karachi. The brand showcased its latest offering for the summer season, which includes pret and unstitched material for all ages and in various styles, also available for purchase in-stores and online.

The collection was exhibited at the main atrium of the mall. The high-end fashion brand welcomed visitors with fun-filled activities that offered them a chance to win exciting giveaways. The star-studded event was hosted by actress Hira Hussain and saw stars including Sarwat Gillani, Yashma Gill, Anoushay Abbasi, and other media fraternity.

Just in time for the summer season, J.’s new collection consolidates their commitment to contemporary designs and elaborate fabrics. This season’s offering features exclusive designs with a range of vibrant and pastel colors, and contemporary styles on J.’s signature exquisite quality material, in combinations of lawn with silk and chiffon to turn your everyday outfits into statement pieces.

Hareem Farooq Ready to Take Over the first PISA Awards

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir) Actress and producer Hareem Farooq has been announced as the host, along with an exciting solo performance, for the first Pakistan International Screen Awards (PISA) scheduled to be held in Dubai on Feb 7th, 2020.

After becoming the first female celebrity to host Pakistan Super League (PSL) in 2018, and having hosted the Hum Awards for two consecutive years, the talented star is not a new name in the hosting game, however this is the first time Hareem Farooq will be doing a solo performance on stage at an awards function.

“I am really excited to be a part of this great platform, and I am sure it is going to be an amazing night for the Pakistani entertainment industry.,” stated Hareem Farooq, who is also nominated in the best actress category for her role in the 2019 flick “Heer Maan Ja”. “I am also honoured by the recognition PISA has given to our film Heer Maan Ja, which is also nominated in 5 award categories.” she further added.

The PISA awards are set to take place at the

Coca Cola arena in Dubai on 7th February 2020.

 

Benefits of using Natural Hair Coloring Kit

Benefits of using Natural Hair Coloring Kit

Natural products can do great wonders whether it is your skin or your hair. Natural organic products help you prevent hair fall. Nowadays, women like to dye their hair but not all hair colors are good, chemicals in the hair dyes cause hair fall and hair damage. Therefore, you are left with the option to dye your hair with natural hair color which is which are made from flowers, leaves, and sun-dried plants.

When the plants dry, it is crushed and made into a powder, which is used as the hair dye. Before you make your decision to buy the hair color kit, make sure you know your skin type. If you are allergic to certain ingredients in a hair product, make sure so consult a skin specialist before you make a purchase. Organicroots has the best natural hair coloring kit at affordable prices. Let us talk about the benefits of using natural hair coloring kit:

Zero side effects

The most important thing about the natural hair coloring kit is that it covers the grays of your hair. Chemicals like hydrogen peroxide and ammonia can damage the hair texture and harm the scalp but there are no chemicals added in the natural hair color. Due to which there are no side effects of the organic products. That is why it is a belief that organic products are the safest hair dye in nature. It is highly recommended going for the products, which are chemical-free to avoid any kind of hair problem.

Nourishes hair stands from its core

Another most amazing benefit of the natural hair coloring kit is that it nourishes your hair. The coloring experience would be unexpected. Your hair will be smooth and soft. The products are being used in the organic hair color will be natural and pure which will make your hair shiny and glossy. In addition, its color will last longer because there will be a layer of herbs that will protect your hair from getting fade.

Cure other hair problems

Natural hair coloring kit does not only gives your hair a soft look but it also helps cure other hair problems like hair fall, dry scalp, dandruff, and split ends. The absence of chemicals can save you from such problems.

Henna is one of the most popular organic products that most women use. It comprises of sun-dried plants. It is then added into water and made into a paste. You apply that paste on your hair for a light color. It is an amazing natural hair color without any chemicals added into it. It is purely a plant paste, which helps prevent your hair from hair fall and dandruff.

 

Alkaram Studio Continues its Expansion with the Launch of its Largest Store

Alkaram Studio Continues its Expansion with the Launch of its Largest Store

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir) Alkaram Studios Known for its exceptional designs and quality, Alkaram Studios launched its largest studio in the network on Jaranwala Road, Faisalabad on other day.

Alkaram Studios Opening ceremony with Ayeza Khan

The brand commenced the opening of its 46th store with a happening event at the outlet. The spectacular opening ceremony was adorned by the actress and brand ambassador, Ayeza Khan, as well as influencers, bloggers, and media fraternity.

Talking about the launch event, Ayeza Khan said, “For me, Alkaram has always reflected radiance and joy, and I am so happy to be a part of their brand. This opening marks as a new milestone for the ever-growing brand that is one of Pakistan’s most trusted fabric makers.”

Alkaram launched its first studio back in 2011 and is one of Pakistan’s exquisite and affordable lifestyle brands. The newly launched studio in Faisalabad is a perfect haven for women of all ages who are looking for the ideal fusion of contemporary and traditional designs, and stunning accessories.

Pantene HUM Bridal Couture Week Powered By TUC

PANTENE HUM BRIDAL COUTURE WEEK POWERED BY TUC RETURNS TO THE CITY OF GARDENS WITH A STAR-STUDDED DAY ONE

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir (NUT-Chief Editor) The 17th edition of the country’s biggest and most sought-after bridal extravaganza, Pantene HUM Bridal Couture Week (PHBCW) unveiled its red carpet here in the City of Gardens on December 6, 2019. Organized under the banner of Pakistan’s numero uno entertainment network HUM Network Limited, launched in 2010 the Bridal Couture Week (HBCW), the large format event which is the most opulent and highest profile bridal event in Pakistan. It leads the bridal fashion industry through creative influence and has been strategically repositioning Pakistani bridal fashion in the global fashion economy for the last nine years. The event showcases latest trends and designs in bridal couture by leading as well as emerging fashion designers of the country. It has become the most aspired presentation for Pakistan’s top designers, couture lovers, influential individuals, buyers, celebrities, socialites, and legacy brands. This year, with Pantene as its title sponsor, PHBCW will be showcasing 29 designers on the runway.

Show one of the bridal extravaganza kicked off with Fahad Hussayn’s collection Labyagawachi trousseau bridal collection, followed by Aisha Imran’s Shadi Mubarik in romantic hues for the charismatic classic bride.  Next in line was Almirah with its collection Ethnic Seams which drew its inspiration from the splendour and intimacy of Eastern art, followed by Samsara Couture House’s Hayal, inspired by the tulip era in the Turkish Ottoman empire. Zonia Anwaar came next with her modern collection Zoella infused with traditional techniques with her signature cuts for the young millennial brides.

Pantene unveiled its new bottle at PHBCW’19 on the ramp at the end of a dazzling hair show where the models flaunted inspiring hairstyles alongside a mesmerizing performance by Maria Unera. The new Pantene advanced hair fall solution reduces hair fall in just 14 days making one enjoy more open hair days without worrying about hair fall. This segment was followed by Ziggi Menswear’s monochromatic collection Fana – ‘Annihilation of the Self’ which was created using luxe fabrics, rich embroideries and motifs inspired from Sufism.

Nitasha Bilal Haute Couture showcased Abooro incorporating the beautiful Mughal legacy and blending her presentation with revivalist techniques of kora dabka. She was awarded the Pantene Rising Star for her beautiful debut collection. Haris Shakeel was next who amalgamated embroideries with block and screen printing in his collection Ishq. Up next was Royal Tag’s very aristocratic menswear collection The Royal Ceremony, inspired by the majestic Syon House and Garden in London. Day one came to an end with globally acclaimed master couturier Nilofer Shahid’s collection Dastaan e Firdaus.

Day one of the three-day bridal extravaganza had an amazing line-up of celebrities walking for the designers – the bhangra king Abrar Ul Haq walked for Fahad Hussayn and Minal Khan walked for Aisha Imran. The veteran actor Aijaz Aslam walked for Almirah, while the undisputed queen of our entertainment industry, Saba Qamar walked for Samsara Couture House while Nausheen Shah graced the ramp for Zonia Anwaar. Noor Khan walked and Soch The Band performed for Nitasha Bilal Haute Couture while Kinza Hashmi closed the show for Haris Shakeel. The eternal Adnan Siddiqui walked the ramp for Royal Tag and Sarah Khan added allure to Nilofer Shahid’s timeless pieces.

Show director for PHBCW 2018 is Vaneeza Ahmed Ali. Hamna Amir is the official jewellery partner while Hair and Makeup is done by NPro and NGents. The red-carpet host for PHBCW 19 is Shadab Khan and Ahmed Godil is the digital host. Arsalan Ihsan is the emcee for the event and DJ Moazzam mixed the music for the shows. Backstage is managed by Salwa Rafique and her team and Faisal Farooqi at Dragonfly is the official photographer. All public relations operations and media liaison are carried out by Moiz Kazmi and his team at MK Digital PR and the in-house PR team of HUM Network Limited along with show production and execution by the special projects and events team at HUM Network Limited.

 Sultana Siddiqui – President HUM Network Limited

It gives me great pride to see how the Bridal Couture Week has evolved over the past decade and has become a benchmark of bridal fashion season, a platform where emerging designers get an opportunity to showcase alongside their illustrious peers. Apart from that the exposure given to all participants via HUM Network’s global reach and the response that the designers receive is unsurpassed thus making it not only a platform for creative expression but also a highly viable one from a business standpoint.

SPONSORS’ ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The 17th edition of the country’s biggest bridal extravaganza is presented by Pantene, powered by TUC, Beauty Partner Golden Pearl Cosmetic, Refreshed by Aquafina, Savoury Partner Kurkure, Food Partner KFC, and Tea Partner Tapal.

ABOUT THE DESIGNERS’ INSPIRATIONS

Fahad Hussayn – Labyagawachi : The chamkeeli edit, collection serves as an exclusive edit of Print Museum wedding essentials with a wide range of affordable wedding wear 

Labyagawachi is a musical journey into the vast sceneries of nature and the huge construction of intricately weaved beauty in all that exists around us. Where the voyage between day & night ties in with being found and lost, experienced in an all new dimension of identity. All in efforts to shed light on the process of exploration of the self and the brewing of a constant war between one’s heart, soul and mind. The brand Fahad HUSSAYN  celebrates a decade of decadence in revivalist embroideries, patchwork, signature 3d surfaces and the love of craft.

 

 

Aisha Imran – Lagan is traditions redefined with modern whimsy. The collection features romantic and graceful wedding dresses for the classic and charismatic bride. Crafted with breath taking detail, each design is a remarkable work of art with traditional craftsmanship. Fall in love with unique embellishments, modern silhouettes, and the graceful elegance we are known for.

Almirah – Drawing inspiration from the splendour and intricacy of eastern art, Almirah’s Ethnic Seams is the epitome of sophisticated men’s fashion. These heavily embroidered pieces are a mesmerizing integration of intense hues, pastel shades and digital prints. Featuring khaddar, jacquard, and pure fabric as the primary canvases, the exclusive range of kurtas, sherwanis, prince coats and waist coats is the closing fashion statement of the year.

Samsara Couture House – Samsara is about how art and elegance is translated into a womens’ style through clothing. Derived from the Sanskrit, staying true to our heritage of South East Asia, Samsara means circle of life, or rebirth. our latest collection, Hayal is inspired from a unique period known as “the tulip era” in the Turkish Ottoman empire. The Tulip Era, which marked a peaceful and prosperous period between 1718 and 1730, has become a term to describe mindless joy and pleasure. Symbolized by the Tulip, our latest collection uses the emotions of joy and prosperity mixed with intricate craftsmanship and attention to detail to bring something new and exciting to Pakistani bridal couture.

 

Zonia Anwaar – Zoella by Zonia Anwaar is her latest bridal and trousseau 19-20 collection.  Zoella is a modern take on majestic timeless silhouettes and rich textures, keeping bridal cocktail lehengas, concept festive attire and intricately embellished anarkalis in mind for practical wedding wear. Luxe fabrics, impeccable craftsmanship and elegant simplicity in traditional layered ghararas with straight shirts and super fun lehnga cholis to rock your festive season 2020.

Ziggi Menswear – Fana – ‘Annihilation of the Self’ is a collection of delicately woven fabrics in a palette of black and white silks, cottons, velvets and brocades. It focuses on exquisite hand-crafted embroidery and contrasts with a sophisticated classy design. The collection features extravagantly luxurious garments to humble and classy timeless designs. Regal and historical patterns are used in a variety of lengths, styles and cuts to make every outfit in this collection unique and desirable. The collection Fana is inspired by Sufism and the spread of this spiritual path across the world. The collection centres on a mono colour pallet of, simple blacks, whites and ivories, complimented with a gold accent colour. Ascending to the state of fana, the unparalleled beauty of our designs is unveiled.

Nitasha Bilal Haute Couture – Nitasha Bilal new collection “Abooro” is her vision of beautiful heritage of Mughal era blending it with the power of authentic eastern craftsmanship. Simply for unique and beautiful rooted traditional bride, that lives and is an example of purely art, sensuality and femininity.

 

Haris Shakeel – With ishq, we bring back our traditions with gota, zardozi and mukesh worked on traditional anarakali, anghraka, and the basic shalwar.  We have used lots of block printing techniques and screen printing in our new collection, we also truely focused on the colour which are very festive and vibrant.

Royal Tag – For our Bridal Couture Week Collection, we wanted something that had value to it and a history so we looked for deep and rich cultural and historic content that took a modern turn and is still standing strong. We took inspiration from the SYON House and Garden in London, England that has a history of over 400 years. The historic events about this place, how Royals lived here and that it is still owned by the 12th Duke of Northumberland. We were inspired from the breath taking avenue. Its architecture and how the site combines of nature and man-engineered beauty, exactly what our collection will portray, an amalgamation of natural patterns derived from SYON Garden and intricate architectural prints and patterns driven from the SYON House. The colour palette will be a true portrayal of the beauty of the place when it lights up at night like a magical place.

Nilofer Shahid – Nilofer Shahid pays a poignant tribute to Kashmir.
“Agar firdaus bar ru-ye zaminast,
Haminast o haminast o haminast”
 


“If there is a paradise on earth,
It is this, it is this and it is this.” – Emperor Jehangir (talking about Kashmir)

Kashmir is the beautiful poetry of God! This Kashmir collection represents the dramatic periods in the history of Kashmir. The bold sartorial depiction is a testimony of Nilofer’s creative genius, the usage of the colour palette, the draping of the garments, the embellishments come together to tell the story of Kashmir.
                             
Kashmir, the Paradise, its valleys, high mountains and shimmering lakes take your breath away; it is the living poetry that evokes the highest form of ecstasy and deepest sorrow; it is poetry that is felt through heartbeats and emotions.

The romance of idyllic peace of the valley attracted the emperors to enjoy the beauty, and under the royal patronage flourished the creative arts; the pure and unblemished beauty of Kashmir has inspired musicians, poets, artisans alike.
 
Suddenly, darkness descended over the valley; tyranny, injustice and suppression reigned; the tranquillity of Kashmir was ripped asunder; raped and plundered, the valley burned, the inferno consumed life! The valley echoed with the cries of the helpless, and death walked through the valley.

 

Just living isn’t enough,” said the butterfly, “one must also have freedom, sunshine, and a little flower. – Kahlil Gibran

 

 

Tanzila Khan’s Girlythings Stall Was One of the Highlights of Faiz Festival

Lahore (Muhmmad Yasir) Among Faiz’s poetry and portraits adorned at the fifth International Faiz Festival, one of the highlights of the 3 days-event was Tanzila Khan’s Girly Things stall that was set up to raise awareness on menstrual hygiene.

Appreciative audience including celebrities from the likes of Sarmad Khoosat and Khadija Siddiqui were all praises for this one of a kind initiative in Pakistan, working to inspire and aware women about menstrual hygiene and its importance. The activist, entrepreneur, and writer Tanzila Khan was also a panelist on the session on “Art over Adversity: Who Wins”.

A one of its kind application in Pakistan; Girlythings is an App catering to women’s menstruation needs. The App has managed to make hygiene products and sanitary napkins easily accessible to women all around Pakistan, delivering products at their doorstep in complete privacy.

“CITIZEN AND THE CITY” 10TH INTERNATIONAL THAAP CONFERENCE 2019

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir) Today was the last day of the fruitful conference held by THAAP in collaboration with Institute for Art and Culture. The paper reading sessions were held at 43-G, Gulberg-III and came to conclusion on the evening of 3rd of November. THAAP provided a formal platform where papers were discussed on the theme of “Citizen and the City” and an in-depth dialogue took place between writers, scholars and students. People from diverse fields and delegates from Australia, China, Germany, Switzerland, India and Pakistan took part in the conference. This multicultural environment supplemented towards having a more productive and constructive discussion.

The conference of 2019 was divided into eight sessions. The first six sessions took place on the 1st and 2nd November, commencing with the seventh session on the 3rd of November. The seventh session was chaired by Prof. Mushtaq Soofi, School of Culture and Language, Institute for Art and Culture, Lahore. Dr. Kashif Khan presented the paper titled “Military Offensive and Forced Migration: Analyzing the Plight of the North Waziristan IDPs”. He opined that the war and operation Zarb e Azam in North Waziristan agency has destroyed the social and economic life of the tribal people.  As IDP’s have faced financial crises and are not able to build their destructed structures again, hence the government should reconstruct their schools, markets and hospitals on emergency basis. Government Officials and Donor agencies should utilize the available recourses for aid purposes where the aid is directed for the development, education and rehabilitation of the area. Ghiasuddin Pir and Sahar Saqlain’s paper titled “Confinement and Refinement: The Origins and Evolution of Confinement Spaces for the Treatment of Mentally Challenged Citizens in Lahore, Punjab” went through an evolutionary account of prevalent mental health disorders and associated treatments, the paper provided an overview of evolving rights and responsibilities of mentally challenged citizens through a study of the social and built environment, laws dictating the rights of the insane, historical case studies and firsthand accounts of the current members of Punjab Institute of Mental Health. Prof. Jakelin Troy’s paper titled “Nalawangun we remain: Aboriginal Citizens Shaping the Urban Dynamics of Sydney, Australia” presented a case for the important continuing presence of the Aboriginal traditional owners of Sydney, helping to maintain and renew their language and cultural life.

The eighth session was chaired by Prof. Syed Faisal Sajjad, Head of Department, Architecture, National College of Arts, Lahore. Papers were presented by Asad Ahmed titled “Urban Transphobia in Cityscapes: Interrogating Lahore as a Safe Space for Transgenders”. His research aimed to sensitize and raise awareness about Urban Transphobia and highlight the problems faced by these individuals. Since these individuals challenge the deep rooted binary gender forms of the society, they often become the epicenter of discrimination, repression and intolerance. Amrita Alam and Intikhab Alam’s paper titled “Delhi – A Home Away from Home”, was presented in a video format focusing on the refugees from Afghanistan who despite the large number of hardships found a new home in India, providing them with basic safety and a chance for a better tomorrow irrespective of how their lives are affected by lack of recognition. Prof. Dr. Samra Mohsin Khan’s paper titled “The Dual City: Political, Cultural and Spatial Segregation of Peshawar during the Colonial Era” was presented by Ar. Sofia Wanchoo Mir. The paper focused on colonial cities and how they came to simultaneously sustain two or more distinct cultures; their segregations and relations, differentiations and amalgamations, domination and re­sistance. Dr. Humera Naz in her paper titled “Urbanism, Urbanization and Acculturation in Medieval South Asia: A Case Study of Delhi City” said that uUrbanization is not merely an increase in the proportion of urban population, but is a continu­ing process which encompasses all factors underlying the process of economic growth and socio cultural change. The emergence, spatial spread, growth and decline of cities and towns are very much related to the processes of urbanization and these processes are triggered due to different con­tributing factors on different instants of time. Neha Fatima in her paper titled “The Role of an Urban Space and Citizen” said that Lahore, once a city of gardens, was always planned and lived in a way that it provided a neighborhood living, the organic growth and winding narrow streets with squares every now and then of the walled city is a true example of this.   The session concluded with film screenings and discussion.

 

The Chief Guest for the closing session of 10th International THAAP Conference 2019: “Citizen and the City” was Prof. Dr. Fazal Ahmed Khalid, Chairman Punjab Higher Education Commission (PHEC). The Guest of Honor was Ms. Shaista Pervaiz Malik, Education Expert, and Chairperson SAARC Chambers Women Entrepreneurs Council. The session started off with Ar. Aabidah Shujaat Ali giving a report on the proceedings of the conference which was followed by Prof. Pervaiz Vandal’s discussion on the future plans of THAAP. The Guest of Honor, Ms. Shaista Pervaiz addressed the conference with paying tribute to efforts of the Vandals for their efforts in promoting awareness on social and humanistic sciences in the region. Being an educationist, she threw light on delicate issues of depreciating socio-cultural factors and talked about the importance of mainstreaming the cause of efficient ways to find a balance between contemporary urban demand and the needs of citizens in the region. The Chief Guest, Prof. Dr. Fazal Ahmed urged the researchers to relate their research with social and economic problems of the country and come up with tangible solutions whether they belong to sciences or arts, humanities or architecture. The conference was beautifully summed up by Prof. Sajida H. Vandal’s closing address where she also thanked the organizers and the participants of the conference which was followed by distribution of certificates. The conference of 2019 concluded with a cultural evening showcasing performances by IAC Choir Society and IAC Theatre Society.