All Posts in "Web Desk"

Pakistan Sports Awards and Agent Haq in collaboration with world’s no.1 sports drink Gatorade presents Mai Hoon Sitara, Pakistan’s first sports anthem. The anthem got an exclusive premier as part of the launch of Gatorade Pakistan Sports Awards held at the Punjab Football Stadium, Gulberg, hosted by the Sports Board Punjab.

The program kickstarted at 5pm with Sikandar Bakhat as the main host, while the Red Carpet was hosted by Arsalan Ishan, Mishayl Hussain, and Hira Hussain. The press conference featured representatives from PepsiCo along with the Chief Guest Minster Rai Taimoor Khan Bhatti, Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports, Punjab and Chairman of Sports Board Punjab. Notable figures present at the event include, Ahmad Shahzad, Asim Azhar, Aima Baig, Secretary Sports Punjab Fawad Hashim, Abdullah Haris, Sohail Tanveer, Director General Sports Board Punjab and Youth Affairs Adnan Arshad Aulakh, Vice Chairman Sports Board Punjab Zahid Qayyum,  HSY, Atif Rana, owner Lahore Qalandars, Aqib Javed, Cricketer, Inam Butt, Gold medalist and two times World Beach Games champion, Afshan Noreen, Hockey player and winner of Best Player 2019, Nighat Kauser, Rowing Champion, Asfar Yaqoob, Hockey Player, Ahmad Ali Baig Golf champion and winner of Qatar Open 2019, Parkha Ijaz, Golfer amongst the many others.

The setup for the event was specifically developed with all SOPs in mind, including keeping a 6 feet distance in an outdoor area where there was an ample amount of breathing room for guests. Wearing of masks for all attendees was also made obligatory, with hand sanitization stations, and a digital PAX count display.

Commenting on the steps the Pakistani government is taking to help the sports industry grow further, Rai Taimoor Khan Bhatti, Provincial Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Punjab stated, “Sports is such a crucial part of any country. Therefore, the government of Pakistan has pledged to not only allocate funds for sports facilities but also for the rising stars who have continue to perform for Pakistan. Our partnership with Pakistan Sports Awards is one of many initiatives in the direction of recognizing the accolades of our sports persons have achieved for our country”

Asim Azhar, who also composed and wrote the song said “I was so proud of being a Pakistani when I found out that we have more than 75 world titles across so many sports that includes Hockey, Javelin, Squash, Snooker but also was disappointed that I didn’t already know all of this, and I wish through this song the whole of Pakistan realizes that sports heroes are real life heroes”

Aima Baig said “I feel honored to be representing the women of Pakistan in sports and I was impressed to find out that in 2019 more women won International titles than men for the first time as we now have a female badminton champ Mahoor Shahzad and also an ice-skating champ Malak Faisal! Just shows if we get a chance, we can also have female sports icon who can inspire not only women in Pakistan but across the world”

“Pakistan’s burgeoning youth population is brimming with potential.  This potential is poised for greatness if we harness, mentor and celebrate it. One of the platforms to make that possible is sports. Sports can impact lives in profound ways, for the ones playing them and for the ones cheering them on. The moments of victory, sacrifice, loss and conflict cut across age, beliefs and differences. The launch of Mai Hoon Sitara in collaboration with Gatorade Pakistan Sports Awards’ aims to promote and appreciate our youth making strides and breaking down barriers across the breath of the spectrum,” commented Ayesha Janjua, Marketing Director Beverages, PepsiCo Pakistan.

The Press Conference was followed by the launch of Pakistan’s first Sports Anthem ‘Mai Hoon Sitara’. Produced by Ameem Haq; directed by Abdullah Haris; written, performed and composed by Asim Azhar, the anthem also features Aima Baig and Rapper Ramiz Ali. Conceptualized as a tribute to the country’s sports heroes, the anthem highlights the struggles of athletes from different sports genres who put their heart and soul into winning titles for the country.

Commenting on the initiative Ameen Haq, Founder and CEO of Pakistan Sports Awards stated, “As Pakistanis, sports mostly meant cricket for us perhaps because that’s the only sport that is celebrated on a national level and we are known for our love for cricket. While our love for cricket will continue to grow, we also need to acknowledge our sportsmen and women who excel in different genres of sports including hockey, kabbadi, boxing, snooker, gymnastics, running, etc, and are working tirelessly to mark our country’s presence in the global arena of sports.

Our partnership with Mr. Salman Iqbal, Gatorade & Punjab Sports Board collectively is our way of showing gratitude to our heroic athletes, journalists and trainers; while also rekindling the spirit of sports especially during such tough times.”

The overall agenda for the event was to promote all genres of sports. All attendees came to show their support for the sports industry of Pakistan. The event ended with fireworks to mark the launch of Pakistan’s first sports anthem: Gatorade Mai Hoon Sitara.

Tweets in the support of Mai Hoon Sitara:

https://twitter.com/iamAhmadshahzad/status/1340322272247238659?s=20
https://twitter.com/WahabViki/status/1340320616260493312?s=20
Web Desk by — December 19, 2020 in Cricket

Pakistan’s premier Youth Leadership Summit, the 19th Young Leaders Conference, hosted by the School of Leadership to be held in Karachi, has been announced to kick-start from Saturday, 19th December 2020, at Dreamworld resort, in accordance with strict Standard Operating procedures stated by the authorities.

The theme for this year’s YLC is ‘BREAKTHROUGH’ – finding the courage to take life head-on and breakthrough your confines to transform yourself. The most innovative leaders realize that success is the result of a simple orientation and unwavering consistency, and YLC aims to breed the next generation of leaders by inspiring the youngsters to consciously shift towards the possible, continue to learn, discover, and create.

The six-day and the five-night event will be held under strict SOPs while implementing all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of the attendees. Taking responsibility at the time of a pandemic, SoL has organized the 19th YLC with only 200 student attendees and implementing strict rules to be followed by everyone present.

Young Leaders Conference is a yearly event held to inspire the youngsters from around the country to expand their horizons by fully exploring cultural differences, gaining firsthand exposure to the challenges of the world, developing a passion for leadership while exploring a future career, and gaining a fresh, new perspective.

The six-day leadership journey provides an out-of-classroom learning experience and rigorous curriculum that equips students with the confidence, independence, skills, and global competitiveness required of the next generation of Leaders.

The Young Leaders Conference 2020 will also host prominent personalities from various sectors of business, government, and private corporations to guide and inspire the young minds.

For the six-day event, the young participants will go through leadership training, learn from influential speakers, and engage in skill-based workshops and activities under strict SOPs and social distancing.

The conference will focus on themes related to Personal Development, History and Arts, Corporate Exposure, Community Development, and helping Youngsters understand how to go back and make an impact in their communities.

Web Desk by — December 18, 2020 in Events

Soon after a post on the famous publications from Pakistan, social media fans of the both celebrities go bizzerk on their social media accounts, some shared previous pictures of both (Urwa and Farhan) and few shared some grief over the separation.

Still, the couple hasn’t officially announced their divorce or has issued a public statement at this time. But fans on the social media expressed their feelings about the separation rumors.

The couple tied the knot in an intimate Nikkah ceremony at the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore on December 16, 2016.

https://twitter.com/tweetsbytahreem/status/1331299101703626757?s=20
https://twitter.com/SyedasukainaHu3/status/1331300039289827328?s=20
https://twitter.com/Mair_E_Tweets/status/1331300609157459977?s=20
https://twitter.com/beingmirzaa/status/1331296947202830337?s=20

https://twitter.com/DrSohaiil/status/1331298862800187398?s=20
https://twitter.com/SyedaSays__/status/1331293768155336705?s=20
https://twitter.com/mariamaheen1/status/1331303522223202309?s=20
https://twitter.com/Iramnisar3/status/1331301799823876096?s=20
https://twitter.com/MuhamadSaqib_/status/1331304517418278917?s=20
https://twitter.com/ahmedktweets/status/1331281452995129345?s=20
https://twitter.com/Arslan62572201/status/1331278271217065984?s=20
Web Desk by — November 24, 2020 in Artist

Echo Boomers, Omer H Paracha’s first feature film as an Executive Producer, has now been released in selected theaters worldwide and is available for viewing in Pakistan on streaming platforms.

Echo Boomers follows a group of disillusioned twenty-somethings, who use Chicago as their playground by breaking into the homes of its richest citizens and stealing from the rich. The millennial gang of art thieves keeps audiences on their toes as they set on a journey with nothing to lose, causing destruction wherever they go.

“Working closely with the Director Seth Sevoy and Producer Mike Ware has taught me a lot. I definitely want to implement the knowledge I gained from them in future productions,” said Omer H Paracha, talking about the release of his film.

He added, “There is a huge market for multicultural films in Pakistan. I hope to create more opportunities for both sides to work closely together. It would be great to see Pakistan in a better light in this industry and I plan to make it happen.”

Talking about creating impactful content, he said, “I believe that movies have a lot of influence on people. They provide a platform to highlight social and cultural issues. It’s important to produce something worthy that leaves a positive impact on the audience.”

Starring an ensemble cast including Patrick Schwarzenegger, Alex Pettyfer, Hayley Law, Oliver Cooper, Academy Award nominee Lesley Ann Warren and two-time Academy Award nominee Michael Shannon, Echo Boomers is Seth Savoy’s directional debut and has been produced by Mike Ware.

Omer H Paracha has the honor of being the youngest Executive Producer in Hollywood from Pakistan. He is also the owner and founder of Paraval, a leading street-wear inspired luxury label based exclusively in Los Angeles.

Echo Boomers is now available to watch on Hulu, Paramount, iTunes, and Amazon worldwide.

You can watch the trailer on given link below:

Web Desk by — November 16, 2020 in Movies

Lahore: Asad Bashir Khattak, Veena Malik’s ex-husband, sent a defamation notice to Veena Malik for campaigning against him on social media and illegally removing children from Dubai to Pakistan, with an unconditional apology within ten working days from the date of receipt.


It has been asked to pay Rs 500 million in damages, otherwise, he has the right to initiate court proceedings in the contempt case. Asad Bashir Khattak said that Veena Malik filed a suit against him in the court of Rawalpindi based on fabrications and damaged his reputation by campaigning against him on social media.


He told me that he has been enduring all this for a long time but now the scale of patience is full. He said that Veena Malik illegally transferred his two children Abram Asad and Amal Asad to Pakistan who is American citizens.


He informed that the Court of Appeal of Dubai had ruled in his favor on June 10, 2020, and ordered to hand over the children to him. Furthermore, while entering the names of the children in the ECL, the court had issued an order that underage children cannot be taken out of the UAE without the permission of the parents.


He said he is in contact with the US embassy to find out about the illegal trafficking of US citizenship holder children. He added that he has also informed the FIA that the Pakistani embassy in Dubai illegally issued Pakistani passports to both children after which Veena Malik brought the children to Pakistan.


He has requested the FIA that Veena Malik is present in Pakistan, her name should be included in the ECL so that she can stay here and face the court.

He shared on his twitter timeline:

Asad Khattak’s Video Message:

Web Desk by — November 12, 2020 in News

Shortly after launching in Pakistan, global ed-tech firm Library 21 acquires UK-based leadership education company IDG to offer elite courses to the public 

Highlights: 

Inspirational Development Group (IDG) is the firm behind leadership courses in a strategic alliance with the Royal Military Academy in Sandhurst

Many world leaders – including Pakistan’s top military leadership – have attended the institution. Now Pakistanis can avail the same courses through Library 21  

DUBAI, November 2 – Disruptive global ed-tech company, Library 21 Holdings Ltd (formerly known as Coded Minds), has acquired UK-based Inspirational Development Group (IDG), the firm behind leadership courses and in a strategic alliance with the Royal Military Academy in Sandhurst, UK where many world leaders – including Pakistan Army’s top brass – have studied. 

The Pakistan Army has been considered as one of the best performers in the UK’s Royal Military Academy. Recently, it won an international military drill competition known as the Pace Sticking Competition at the academy for the third consecutive time. Now Pakistanis can acquire the same courses as well through Library 21. 

Omar Farooqui, the Founder and President of Library 21 Holdings Ltd, said, “We feel proud, by virtue of this acquisition, we are an education partner of this prestigious institution that produces the world’s best leaders.”  

“The year 2020 has brought about many challenges to companies worldwide but we have used this opportunity to reaffirm our business model and drive to make education a right and not a privilege by bringing best in class offerings to the masses,” Farooqui added.

Library 21 is now providing education in Pakistan as well. The strategic acquisition means that the company will now be operating in more than 12 countries across the world and will have a complete 360 suite of education programs for pre-K to adults as well as corporates. 

IDG is the second major international acquisition by Library21. The company acquired a leading STEM and INNOVATION education company in Canada and the USA last year.

Peter Turpie, the Managing Director of IDG, said that they cherish the long-standing exclusive partnership with the Royal Military Academy for over 20 years. “We are proud that we have produced the world’s best leaders through our educational plans. Now as part of Library21 group, we are confident that we will be able to bring all our core expertise at the doorstep of tomorrow’s leaders” he remarked. 

He said the acquisition would bring world-class education to the doorsteps of students around the world. “With travel restrictions, education is now becoming more localized. Such an opportunity will benefit everyone wherever Library 21 is offering education, making it world-class education accessible”.

Turpie added, “Joining the Library21 group presents a fantastic opportunity for us and will further our ambition to build the next generation of leaders across the globe through high-quality learning experiences that are fun, innovative and accessible.”  

Web Desk by — November 4, 2020 in Business

Up and coming singer-songwriter and producer Haris Haroon has just released his latest song ‘Meherma’ on all digital platforms worldwide. It is accompanied by a heart touching music video.

Meherma is a soothing love ballad that features a blend of subtle rhythms and tones that come together perfectly to create a moving musical experience.

Lyrically, it explores the idea that each love is unique and original in its own way. And that uniqueness, if harnessed, is a powerful gift that helps create the perfect, most authentic expression of that love. In a world which is already saturated with love songs and poems, and all sorts of presents and tributes… a world where almost everything has been said and done in the name of love.. Originality and authenticity still remain the best gifts one can give.

The video follows the story of a girl who finds solace and happiness in small paper objects (origami), and has a deep emotional attachment to them because of the meaning they carry. This sentimental value of the origami and the reason behind it is unknown and completely alien to those around her. In the end, she is forced to leave it behind.

Haris Haroon is an emerging singer-songwriter and music producer hailing from Lahore, Pakistan. Ever since completing his education at Berklee College of Music, Boston, he has set up a studio in Lahore and writes and produces music for himself and other artists. His discography thus far includes pieces like ‘Putli tamasha’, ‘Saathi re’, ‘Tez Gaam’ (and others), all of which have been on the airwaves and received much appreciation. He also has a live act that features original and cover tunes in their repertoire. His band HH and the riot house where in the top shortlisted bands out of a total of 700 bands from all over Pakistan in Pepsi battle of the bands season 4.

Haris’ musical influence and writing is deeply rooted in the diverse musical and philosophical traditions of Pakistan, along with contemporary western styles and genres such as Rock, Blues, funk and Pop.

You can find his work on all platforms such as YouTube, Sound Cloud, Facebook and Instagram etc.

  • Haris Haroon drops beautiful new single 'Meherma'
Web Desk by — November 2, 2020 in Artist

ZEE5 Global has launched the trailer of its first Zindagi original and Asim Abbasi’s most awaited web series ‘Churails’. The web-series will be available for streaming from the 11th August on the OTT app ZEE5 and on www.zee5.com

The trailer, out now on YouTube gives us a first look into the story – a strong and unconventional narrative packed with gripping and exciting moments.

‘Churails’ is the first original Pakistani series to be launched on ZEE5, the largest streaming platform for South Asians across the globe. ‘Churails’ follows the story of four self-proclaimed Churails who come together to break some stereotypes and challenge the hypocrisy of patriarchal societies.

Directed by Asim Abbasi of ‘Cake’ fame, ‘Churails’ brings together a talented cast starring Sarwat Gilani, Nimra Bucha, Mehar Bano, and Yasra Rizvi in the lead roles.

Speaking about the upcoming series, actor Yasra Rizvi said “Churails is a story of four strong women characters but it depicts what each and every woman deals with – not just in a particular country but globally. These characters have empowered us and I’m sure even the ones who watch it will feel the same connect. We’re glad that it’s going to be seen by people worldwide!”

Nimra Bucha said “Batool had me at hello.  She was cool, fearless and unflinching. She was the friend I’d want to get me out of trouble.  And get me out of trouble she did.  Playing her has empowered me in lasting ways.  We’re in the business of entertainment, I know, but this sisterhood of Churails, playing this part is my way of telling women that I’m here and I have their back.  We’re all still living in some version of classic Greek tragedy but these Trojan women are going to kick ass.”

Sarwat Gilani said “Churails is about having a realization of what all you can do as a woman. It gives an understanding, insight, awareness, and complete realness of life through the characters and the story. The story is very well written and fabulously directed by Asim Abbasi, he literally took our breath away with his work. It has been an amazing feeling to be part of the super revolutionary change that this project is going to bring. I think Pakistani media will certainly change after Churails. Churails as a show has a lot of caliber and details to catch eyeballs at the international level. I would like to thank Zee5, Zee5 Global and Zindagi official that has given Churails a cherry on top. It was a fabulous journey to be a part of.” 

“Playing Zubaida has been a personal milestone of my career.  She taught me the value of being a protector, the importance of sisterhood and she is, in essence, a fearless warrior who is so compassionate that seeing other women in jeopardy keeps her up at night”, said Mehar Bano.

Trailer Link:

Web Desk by — August 3, 2020 in Digital

Ushna Shah is a renowned actor in the Pakistani media industry today. Known for being vocal about her stance on topics happening around the world; she isn’t afraid to hold back. On Iffat Omar’s show, ‘Say It All’, Ushna discusses everything ranging from mental health, being a celebrity, social media and the tribulations of acting.

When clearing out misinterpretations of certain tweets and statements, Ushna emphasises how important issues are not focused on, instead her words are misconstrued and made into headlines, which the ‘Balaa’ actor clarifies, ‘I’m a human being’ and should be able to express without it turning into something malicious, which is completely out of context”.

Putting 100% of her efforts into Lashkara, no one can doubt Ushna’s brilliant acting prowess as seen evidently in her dramas, Balaa garnering a special mention due to her exceptional performance.  She dedicates herself to her work while still speaking up for other issues in the world, defending young girls from cyber-bullies, advocating animal rights and being kind. As Iffat Omar herself commends Ushna on being gifted in the art of acting, the Alif, Allah Aur Insaan star also points out that she is an artist and a human being apart from that as well.

Ushna prioritizes the concept of mental health, especially as a celebrity in Pakistan. While discussing the topic with Iffat, she makes her stance clear on how despite being a strong woman in the industry and a feminist, anything she says is scrutinized, even when the intent is good. Empowering women in our country by praising our female singers, being curious about historic shows, wanting to create a better world for animals, Ushna is in fact an advocate against bullying herself. Strongly condemning putting others down.

In this episode of #sayitallwithiffatomar (@iffatmarofficial) I have forsaken the dignity a celebrity must maintain and clarified/responded to each tweet/thought that was misquoted, misconstrued, or over-exaggerated and bothered the world so much. I’ve answered all the burning questions that have propelled hundreds of headlines. From your pizzas to your singers. I will speak on these no further. I have answered all “controversies” for now and for the future (so refer back to it the next time you’re curious).

The show explores all the topics one is curious to know about Ushna firsthand, who does not restrict herself to a certain category but is her true and authentic self, which is extremely rare in this time and age. Ushna says it All in Iffat Omer show

Web Desk by — July 14, 2020 in Artist

The current COVID-19 pandemic has not been easy for anyone, in particular for the kids. Apart from symptoms and disease, this pandemic has had different effects on kids, including stress, fear, anxiety, and frustration and all the more so for children who need special attention.

Ahsan Khan makes a sweet connection

An actor, a philanthropist and Government of Punjab’s Child Protection and Welfare Bureau’s Ambassador Ahsan Khan has always had a soft spot for children and he always appears to be the main face for children rights!

Ahsan Khan makes a sweet connection

Recently a mom tweeted a video about her kid Raiyan, where he gushes about how much he likes Ahsan Khan and his show “Bol Nights with Ahsan Khan” and that due to coronavirus he can’t meet his favorite superstar.             

Ahsan Khan reached out to the kid and had a Zoom meeting with him and his mother, they had a very happy talk, Raiyan told Ahsan about his love for games, current load shedding situation and much more.

Watch the whole video here:

Web Desk by — July 2, 2020 in Artist