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Ahmed Ali Akbar Officially Confirms Marriage with Maham Batool

Star Actor Ties the Knot in an Intimate Ceremony

Pakistani film and television star Ahmed Ali Akbar has officially confirmed his marriage to model and social media influencer Maham Batool.

With Pakistan’s wedding season in full swing, the actor is now among the many celebrities who have tied the knot in early 2025.

Ahmed Ali Akbar Shares First Wedding Photos

On Thursday night, Ahmed Ali Akbar took to Instagram to share his first official wedding post, confirming his marriage with Maham Batool.

Along with the pictures, he expressed gratitude and love for his wife, writing:

“My Heart My life, My peace My home.”

However, he also made a special request to the media and social media users, urging them not to share images or videos from their wedding without consent.

“Any photographs or videos from our wedding shared online violate our privacy. We do not consent to the publication or posting of any images or footage from our events,” he added.

Wedding Speculations and Pre-Wedding Festivities

Rumors about the couple’s wedding first surfaced earlier this month when Maham Batool was seen accompanying Ahmed Ali Akbar at the baby shower of actress Mariyam Nafees.

Shortly after, videos and photos from their Qawwali night celebration surfaced online, fueling speculation about their relationship.

Now that the couple has made their wedding official, thousands of fans and fellow celebrities have extended their heartfelt congratulations, showering them with blessings and well wishes.

Afshan Ibrahim by — February 21, 2025 in Glamour
Air Karachi Seeks License to Launch Flights in Pakistan’s Growing Aviation Market

Air Karachi Joins the List of New Airlines Awaiting Approval

Pakistan’s aviation industry is set to welcome another private airline, Air Karachi, which has applied for a Regular Public Transport (RPT) license from the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA).

As per PCAA sources, the airline’s application is under review, and final approval will come from the federal government. Once granted, Air Karachi will begin operations across major cities.

Investment and Business Leaders Behind Air Karachi

The business community of Karachi has played a significant role in the airline’s formation. Hanif Gohar, a well-known businessman, announced that Air Karachi is being launched with an initial investment of Rs. 5 billion, with multiple shareholders contributing Rs. 50 million each.

Prominent business figures involved in the venture include:

  • Aqeel Karim Dhedhi
  • Arif Habib
  • SM Tanveer
  • Bashir Jan Muhammad
  • Khalid Tawab
  • Zubair Tufail
  • Hamza Tabani

Fleet and Leadership Structure

  • CEO: The airline has appointed Retired Air Vice Marshal Imran to lead its operations.
  • Aircraft Acquisition: Air Karachi plans to lease three aircraft in its initial phase.
  • Regulatory Compliance: The airline has completed its registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP).

Competition in Pakistan’s Aviation Sector

Air Karachi is not the only airline looking to enter Pakistan’s growing domestic aviation market. In September last year, Jet Green, Q Airways, and Go Green Air applied for operational licenses. Additionally, Air Indus, Q Aviation, and Liberty Air have expressed their intent to either resume operations or begin new services.

Officials at PCAA view this trend as positive for Pakistan’s aviation industry, believing that increased competition will enhance services and benefit passengers across the country.

Afshan Ibrahim by — February 18, 2025 in Business
Faysal Qureshi Joins AAN TV: A Game-Changer for Pakistani Entertainment!

In an unexpected and highly exciting move, Faysal Qureshi, one of the most revered and versatile stars of the Pakistani drama industry, is set to join AAN TV, the emerging television channel that has been making waves with its fresh and captivating content. The news has sent shockwaves through the entertainment world, sparking rumors and speculation about what role the actor will take on this new platform. But what could this all mean for the future of Pakistani television?

Faysal Qureshi, who has an illustrious career spanning decades, has won the hearts of millions with his impeccable performances in hit drama serials. From emotional roles to intense action-packed characters, Faysal has done it all. His presence in any drama has always been a recipe for success, and now, his association with AAN TV has left fans eagerly guessing about what’s next. However, the specifics of his role at the channel have not yet been revealed, adding a layer of mystery and curiosity to the announcement.

What Could Faysal Be Joining AAN TV For?

Speculation is rife about the nature of Faysal Qureshi’s involvement with AAN TV. Some believe that he may be returning to his roots with an acting project, while others are wondering if he is taking on a new role behind the scenes. Could Faysal be stepping into the shoes of a host for a groundbreaking new show? Or is he perhaps gearing up for an innovative production venture, producing something that will elevate the channel’s entertainment offering to new heights?

AAN TV, with its rapidly growing viewership, has already earned a reputation for producing innovative, engaging, and quality content. It has been a channel that has showcased fresh talent, new storytelling approaches, and a rich mix of genres. If Faysal is indeed joining the channel, his collaboration could be a game-changer, marking a new chapter in his already storied career and adding a powerhouse personality to AAN TV’s lineup.

An Opportunity for Growth and Innovation

The collaboration between Faysal Qureshi and AAN TV is more than just a typical TV deal—it represents an exciting opportunity for both the actor and the channel to explore new horizons. Faysal’s creative vision, combined with AAN TV’s ambitious goals, could lead to a new wave of groundbreaking dramas, reality shows, or even interactive TV formats that push the boundaries of traditional entertainment in Pakistan.

Faysal’s ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level makes him an ideal candidate for any project that aims to resonate with viewers. Whether it’s through an intense drama, a heartwarming reality series, or a talk show that brings together the biggest stars of the entertainment world, his involvement is bound to raise expectations and generate excitement.

Conclusion: The Countdown Begins

The announcement of Faysal Qureshi’s collaboration with AAN TV has set the stage for an intriguing new chapter in Pakistani television. While the details are still under wraps, one thing is certain: this move is set to have a significant impact on both the channel’s programming and the broader entertainment landscape. Fans and industry insiders alike are eagerly awaiting the big reveal, and as the days pass, the anticipation only grows. Will it be a drama series, a game show, or something entirely new? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure—this partnership is bound to keep us on the edge of our seats.

Stay tuned, because something big is about to unfold!

Web Desk by — February 16, 2025 in Drama
NEPRA Cuts Electricity Prices by Rs. 1.23 Per Unit for February Bills

Electricity Prices Lowered as NEPRA Approves Tariff Reduction

The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has officially announced a Rs. 1.23 per unit reduction in electricity tariffs for February bills. This price cut follows the monthly fuel adjustment for December, ensuring temporary relief for consumers amid fluctuating energy costs.

Who Will Benefit From the Electricity Price Reduction?

  • Consumers nationwide will see the revised rates in their February bills.
  • K-Electric customers will also benefit, as the same price cut applies to Karachi’s electricity bills under the November fuel adjustment.
  • The reduction does not apply to lifeline electricity users or electric vehicle charging stations.

Power Companies Push for Major Adjustments in Tariffs

The tariff reduction comes after power companies submitted a petition seeking a total reduction of Rs. 52.12 billion under the second quarterly adjustment for the fiscal year. The petition included:

✔ Rs. 50.66 billion in capacity charge adjustments
✔ Rs. 2.66 billion savings on transmission and distribution losses
✔ Rs. 2.69 billion reduction in operational and maintenance costs

The approval of these adjustments could lead to further tariff reductions in the coming months.

Government’s Commitment to Affordable Energy

In a high-level review meeting held in Islamabad, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif assured that electricity costs would continue to decline through:

✅ Ongoing power sector reforms
✅ Revised agreements with Independent Power Producers (IPPs)
✅ A strict crackdown on electricity theft and transmission losses

The government is committed to ensuring sustainable, affordable electricity for both domestic and industrial consumers.

Web Desk by — February 13, 2025 in News
Saudi Arabia Updates Visa Policy for Pakistani Visitors – Here’s What You Need to Know

The Saudi government has made a major revision to its visa policy, affecting Pakistani travelers and those from 13 other nations. The new regulations, which came into effect on February 1, 2025, suspend multiple-entry visas and restrict applicants to single-entry permits.

The change affects visitors seeking tourism, business, and family visit visas.

List of Countries Affected

The policy impacts citizens from:

  • Pakistan
  • India, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Algeria, Egypt, Ethiopia, Morocco, Nigeria, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen

These visitors will now have limited access to Saudi Arabia, requiring new visas for each trip.

Why the Policy Changed

Saudi Arabia’s decision to eliminate long-term multiple-entry visas is driven by concerns that some individuals were using them to perform Hajj illegally, bypassing their country’s official pilgrimage quota.

To tighten control over Hajj participation, Saudi authorities have opted for a stricter visa policy to ensure all pilgrims register through official channels.

New Visa Process for Pakistani Travelers

Under the revised regulations, travelers from Pakistan and other affected countries must now apply for a:

  • Single-entry visa valid for 30 days
  • Maximum stay of 30 days per visit
  • Mandatory biometric verification at Etimad visa centers

This update marks a significant shift in Saudi Arabia’s approach to visitor entry.

Hajj 2025 Registration Open for Domestic Pilgrims

Meanwhile, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has officially launched Hajj 2025 registration for citizens and residents of the Kingdom.

Applicants are encouraged to apply early via the Nusuk app or the official e-portal, as priority will be given to those who have not performed Hajj before.

The Ministry also advised pilgrims to update their health information, add accompanying individuals, and submit exemption requests where required.

With these new policies in place, travelers and pilgrims must carefully follow the new procedures to ensure a smooth visit to the Kingdom.

Afshan Ibrahim by — February 9, 2025 in News
Pakistan’s Economic Revival: Ishaq Dar Highlights Country’s Progress

Pakistan Climbs to 24th Largest Economy Despite Challenges

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar addressed the Pakistan Business Council’s economic diplomacy event, shedding light on Pakistan’s economic recovery. Despite facing severe setbacks, he reaffirmed that Pakistan is back on track toward sustainable growth.

2013: A Turning Point for Pakistan’s Economy

Dar highlighted the critical economic turnaround in 2013, when the nation was struggling with:

  • Power shortages
  • Terrorism threats
  • Economic instability

Under the ruling party’s “Three Es” policy—Economy, Extremism, and Electricity, Pakistan swiftly regained stability. As a result, by 2016, Pakistan ranked as the world’s 24th largest economy, enjoyed record-high foreign reserves, and successfully controlled inflation.

Economic Downturn & Path to Recovery

However, Dar pointed out that post-2018 policies led to a decline:

  • Pakistan dropped to 47th in global economic rankings
  • Inflation surged into double digits
  • External debt climbed to $130 billion by 2023

Despite these challenges, Pakistan’s natural wealth, including mineral and hydrocarbon reserves, holds the key to future prosperity.

Privatization & Economic Reforms

To revive financial stability, the government is implementing privatization strategies, including:
✅ 24 state-owned enterprises (SOEs) listed for privatization
✅ Privatization of major airports
✅ Potential corporate takeover of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA)

Urging Pakistan’s business sector to play an active role, Dar expressed confidence that strategic reforms will help Pakistan regain its economic standing on the global stage.

Sajal Subhan by — January 29, 2025 in Business
Aamir Khan Reveals Key Details About ‘Sitaare Zameen Par’

Highly-Anticipated Film Set for Christmas Release

Bollywood icon Aamir Khan has unveiled significant details about his upcoming film, Sitaare Zameen Par. Speaking at a public event in Vadodara, the actor confirmed that the film is slated for a Christmas 2025 release.

Not Your Typical Sequel

While marketed as a spiritual sequel to Taare Zameen Par, Aamir clarified that the new film tells an entirely different story. Directed by RS Prasanna, Sitaare Zameen Par takes inspiration from the Spanish movie Champions and focuses on characters with Down Syndrome.

“It’s a story close to my heart,” Aamir explained. “It’s entertaining yet meaningful.”

Why the Delay?

The project has seen multiple postponements, with its release originally scheduled for December 2024. Aamir attributed the delay to unfinished post-production work, stating, “We want to ensure the film meets the highest standards before releasing it.”

Vadodara: A Key Location

Adding a local flavor, Aamir revealed that the film’s emotional climax was shot in Vadodara, further endearing it to the city’s residents.

A Talented Ensemble Cast

Joining Aamir in this cinematic journey are Darsheel Safary, who stole hearts as Ishaan in the original film, and Genelia D’Souza. Their combined performances are expected to elevate the film’s impact.

With its unique blend of heartwarming drama and social themes, Sitaare Zameen Par is poised to become one of the most talked-about releases of the year. Fans are already counting down to its arrival.

Afshan Ibrahim by — January 27, 2025 in Movies
Sindh Under Drought Alert as Rainfall Drops by 52%

PMD Issues Dire Warning for Sindh

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has sounded a drought alarm for Sindh, including urban hubs like Karachi, due to an unprecedented 52% decline in rainfall this season. This drastic shortage has put the province at risk of severe water scarcity and environmental stress.

Prolonged Dry Spell Expected

Weather experts predict that the current dry spell is likely to persist until March, compounding concerns for agricultural productivity and drinking water availability. Key districts such as Sukkur, Naushahro Feroze, Jamshoro, and Shaheed Benazirabad are on high alert for escalating drought conditions.

Government Initiatives and Precautionary Steps

District administrations across Sindh have been directed to take immediate measures to mitigate the effects of the drought. Deputy commissioners in Karachi are preparing alternative solutions, while authorities in Tharparkar and Khairpur have been tasked with implementing precautionary actions to safeguard their communities.

Nationwide Rainfall Crisis

The Met Department also highlighted a broader trend of below-normal rainfall across Pakistan. Between September 2024 and mid-January 2025, the country experienced a 40% shortfall in rainfall, with Balochistan and Punjab facing reductions of 45% and 42%, respectively.

Punjab’s Drought Hotspots

Mild drought-like conditions have emerged in Punjab, particularly in regions such as Potohar, Attock, Chakwal, and Rawalpindi. Districts like Multan, Faisalabad, and DG Khan are also grappling with reduced water availability, threatening the livelihoods of farmers and communities reliant on agriculture.

Recent Rain Offers Little Relief

While a recent spell of rainfall brought hope, it failed to alleviate the dry conditions in Pakistan’s plains, leaving the country on edge. The PMD continues to urge relevant authorities to monitor the evolving situation and implement adaptive strategies to combat the effects of drought.

Afshan Ibrahim by — January 26, 2025 in News
Leading Real Estate group HR Properties join hands with Etihad Town

In a major move to reshape the real estate landscape, HR Properties, the trusted partner of Etihad Town, is now expanding its operations to Sialkot. Renowned for delivering secure, innovative, and profitable investment solutions in Lahore, HR Properties is bringing its expertise to this dynamic city, opening new doors for investors and residents alike.

As a key sales partner of Etihad Town — a brand synonymous with quality and excellence — HR Properties is dedicated to offering tailored, value-driven real estate solutions that align with the aspirations of Sialkot’s vibrant community.

CEO Zeeshan Shaukat expressed his enthusiasm, stating: “We are proud to extend our services to Sialkot. At HR Properties, our mission is to provide investment opportunities that are safe,
innovative, and highly rewarding.”

Adding to this, Managing Director Hassan Amjad remarked: “This expansion reflects our commitment to bringing Etihad Town’s excellence to more cities. We are excited to contribute to Sialkot’s growing real estate sector and build lasting value for our clients.”

Web Desk by — January 25, 2025 in Business
CCTV Cameras to Be Installed in Karachi Colleges to Enhance Safety

Sindh Government’s Initiative for Safer Campuses

In a bid to strengthen security, the Sindh government has announced the installation of CCTV cameras in and around government colleges in Karachi. The directive, issued by the Directorate of College Education Karachi Region, calls for enhanced safety measures amidst increasing incidents of theft and other crimes.

Details of the Circular

The circular, released on Thursday, highlighted the necessity of ensuring the safety of students, staff, and government assets. “Proactive measures are essential to maintain a secure environment within college premises,” the regional director stated.

Scope of CCTV Coverage

Government colleges have been instructed to ensure complete surveillance by installing cameras that monitor both the internal areas and the external perimeters of their campuses. This move aims to deter criminal activities and provide law enforcement agencies with valuable tools for incident analysis.

Support for Law Enforcement

Officials believe that CCTV cameras will significantly improve the ability of law enforcement agencies to review and respond to incidents. The footage captured will serve as critical evidence, ensuring timely action in case of unfortunate events.

Citywide Efforts to Address Security Concerns

This initiative aligns with broader security measures being implemented across Karachi. Recently, police blacklisted 110 domestic helpers with criminal records. The detailed list includes their photographs, contact numbers, and addresses, cautioning citizens against hiring unverified workers.

Authorities revealed that these individuals often operated in organized groups, taking advantage of lax verification processes during hiring. This underscores the importance of stringent background checks and advanced surveillance systems to curb rising crime rates in the city.

By equipping colleges with modern surveillance tools, the Sindh government is taking a significant step toward ensuring the safety of students and staff in Karachi.

Web Desk by — January 23, 2025 in News