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Abeer Asad, Suleiman Hussain face photoshoot backlash

Abeer Asad Khan and Suleiman Hussain are among the Pakistani fashion models who have built recognition through stylish campaigns, editorial shoots, and collaborations with some of the country’s prominent designers. Both have remained visible in the fashion industry through lawn, bridal, and high-fashion projects, while Abeer Asad Khan has also gained attention through major magazine features and industry recognition.

The two models recently became the center of an online debate after appearing together in a new photoshoot for designer Malik Yasir. Inspired by the visual style of the Bollywood classic Raam Leela, the shoot features Abeer Asad and Suleiman Hussain in an intimate and dramatic setting. The project was styled and directed by Nabia Saqib and Abdullah Siddiqui and has attracted considerable attention across social media.

While fashion enthusiasts appreciated the styling, photography, and cinematic presentation, the shoot also received strong criticism from a section of social media users. Several commenters objected to what they considered the intimate nature of the shoot and argued that such fashion campaigns do not reflect the cultural and religious values they expect from Pakistani celebrities.

One social media user criticized the shoot by claiming that obscenity was becoming increasingly common in Pakistan and questioned why people were not speaking against it. Another commenter made a personal remark about Abeer Asad Khan’s past, while someone else pointed out that she had recently performed Umrah and questioned her choice of participating in such a photoshoot afterward.

The Bollywood-inspired theme also became a major point of discussion. One user said the visuals appeared heavily influenced by Indian cinema and questioned why Pakistani fashion creatives could not develop concepts that were more closely connected to Islamic and local cultural traditions. Others used humor and sarcasm to compare the models with Bollywood stars Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone, describing them as the “poor man’s Ranveer and Deepika.”

The criticism did not stop at the models themselves. Some social media users argued that provocative fashion campaigns were becoming increasingly common in Pakistan and claimed that the industry was gradually moving away from traditional cultural boundaries. A few commenters also questioned why fashion models were not criticized as heavily as family vloggers when controversial content appeared online.

There were also accusations that celebrities and models sometimes participate in such shoots primarily for financial gain and publicity. However, supporters of the fashion industry may view such projects as artistic expressions that experiment with international cinema, contemporary styling, and visual storytelling.

The photoshoot has therefore sparked a wider discussion about the balance between artistic freedom, fashion trends, cultural identity, and social expectations in Pakistan. As the images continue circulating online, Abeer Asad Khan and Suleiman Hussain remain at the center of the debate, with social media users expressing sharply divided opinions about the controversial campaign.

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Ahmed said the impact of AI would extend across education, healthcare, public services, entrepreneurship, security and employment, creating both challenges and opportunities for the younger generation. He highlighted the growing importance of digital skills, creativity, adaptability, ethical decision-making and technological confidence in preparing young people for future jobs. “Talent is everywhere. Opportunity is not,” he said, stressing that young people in cities such as Karachi, Nairobi, Riyadh and Dhaka could possess the same potential as those living in major global technology centres but often lacked equal access to resources and opportunities. According to Ahmed, AI could help bridge this gap by allowing students to access knowledge beyond traditional classrooms, entrepreneurs to reach international markets and researchers to process information at unprecedented speeds. However, he cautioned that technological progress alone would not guarantee equal opportunity. Access to education, skills, credentials and technology must also be expanded to prevent AI from worsening existing inequalities. Pakistan’s AI potential Speaking about Pakistan, Ahmed said the country’s large young population could become a major economic strength if properly prepared for the emerging digital economy. He pointed to initiatives including ACT AI — Awareness, Competency and Tools Training for Artificial Intelligence, associated with the state-owned enterprise AXI. The programme focuses on practical AI capabilities, including generative AI, agentic AI systems, productivity tools, automation and sector-specific applications. Ahmed emphasised the importance of making AI education accessible to young people from different academic backgrounds, including those without previous programming or AI experience. He said young Pakistanis should be equipped to use AI not only for education and employment but also for entrepreneurship, public service and innovation. He also highlighted the role of MicroCerts, a government-backed initiative aimed at providing accessible and market-oriented skill certifications. Ahmed argued that traditional university degrees would continue to be valuable, but rapidly changing technology required young people to keep learning throughout their careers. Micro-certifications, he said, could help workers demonstrate specific skills and create new pathways to employment, freelancing, entrepreneurship and further education. Youth urged to become AI creators Ahmed said young people should not be trained merely to consume AI technologies. Instead, they should learn to develop, question, govern and innovate with AI while understanding its ethical and social consequences. 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He called on the younger generation to learn emerging technologies, develop solutions, create businesses and communities, and use AI with a clear sense of purpose. Who is Tanweer Ahmed, the Pakistani-American philanthropist? Pakistani-American businessman and philanthropist Tanweer Ahmed has attracted renewed attention in Pakistan following his reported $9 million contribution to the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) and his recent appearance alongside senior Pakistani officials in the United States. Ahmed, who is based in Houston, has built a diverse business portfolio in the United States while also becoming involved in philanthropy, education, healthcare and cricket. His recent contribution to NUST is aimed at supporting talented students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds. The endowment is expected to provide scholarships to deserving students each year, with a particular focus on fields such as artificial intelligence, information technology, science and other emerging technologies. Ahmed has said his objective is to ensure that talented Pakistani students are not deprived of quality education because of financial difficulties. He has also expressed plans to expand similar scholarship initiatives to other educational institutions. The businessman has also supported infrastructure and technology-related initiatives at NUST, including the development of facilities intended to strengthen research and innovation. His philanthropic activities extend beyond education. Ahmed has been associated with healthcare initiatives in Pakistan and has supported efforts aimed at providing assistance to communities affected by natural disasters. He also drew attention for his role in relief efforts following the devastating floods that struck Pakistan in 2022. He has been credited with helping mobilise substantial humanitarian assistance for flood-affected communities. Ahmed’s business journey began after he moved to the United States as a student. According to accounts of his career, he initially worked in restaurants and at gas stations while trying to establish himself. He later moved through several positions in the American fast-food industry. His career accelerated after he joined Jack in the Box as a shift manager. His performance and business approach helped him move into senior management positions, eventually leading to opportunities in the Taco Bell franchise system. Ahmed later expanded into franchising and developed a large portfolio of food outlets across several US states. His business interests have also extended into insurance, energy, transportation and other sectors. Over the years, he has developed a reputation as an entrepreneur who combines commercial ventures with philanthropic activities. Ahmed

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    Wildfires in south‑west France flare up as region braces for new 40°C heatwave

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    Saudi Arabia names new envoy to Pakistan

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    Three powers, one shield? What the pact means

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    Pakistan, Spain discuss expanding trade, investmen…

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