تازہ ترین

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    Javeria Saud calls out obsession with surgeries and size-zero

    Pakistani actress and television host Javeria Saud has spoken openly about the growing obsession with cosmetic procedures, beauty filters, and extremely slim body figures among women. Known for her outspoken personality and candid views, the actress recently addressed the topic during a podcast, where she questioned the pressure many women feel to change their natural appearance. Javeria Saud has remained a familiar face in the Pakistani entertainment industry for years. Alongside acting and hosting, she has also worked as a producer and earned recognition for her performances in several popular television dramas, including Yeh Zindagi Hai, Nand, Paristan, Baby Baji, Baby Baji Ki Bahuwain, and Muhabbat Starangi. She has also been appreciated for her appearances in projects such as Bajjo and Muhabbat Aur Mehngai. During the podcast, Javeria discussed how beauty standards have changed and how social media has contributed to people’s desire to alter their looks. She revealed that even her own children do not approve when she uses filters on her pictures. According to Javeria, her children often question why she feels the need to use filters and remind her that people should be comfortable with the way they were naturally created. She shared that her children have even gone as far as deleting the application she uses for editing her pictures. However, she humorously admitted that she eventually downloads the app again. The actress also criticized what she described as an increasing fascination with Bollywood-inspired beauty standards. She claimed that many women in Pakistan want to resemble famous Indian actresses such as Kajol, Kareena Kapoor and Katrina Kaif, which can lead some of them to consider cosmetic procedures or other ways of changing their facial features. Javeria also spoke about the pressure surrounding body size, particularly the trend of trying to achieve a “size-zero” figure. She questioned the idea that becoming extremely thin automatically makes a person more attractive. She particularly expressed concern about women over the age of 30 who follow strict diets in an attempt to become extremely slim. According to her, excessive dieting can result in the loss of muscle and collagen, which may affect a person’s overall appearance and make them look unhealthy rather than glamorous. Using a humorous comparison, Javeria said that women can end up looking like a “dehydrated mango” when they lose too much weight and their skin and body lose their natural fullness. Her comments have once again highlighted the ongoing conversation around beauty standards, cosmetic enhancements, social media filters and body image. While cosmetic procedures and dieting remain personal choices, Javeria’s remarks encourage women to reconsider the pressure to achieve unrealistic beauty ideals and to appreciate their natural appearance.

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    Pakistan unveils new oil import framework to attract global suppliers

    ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has decided to introduce a new policy framework aimed at facilitating international oil suppliers, improving the availability of petroleum products and strengthening the country’s energy security. Under the proposed Import Policy 2026 through Customs-Bound Storage, foreign petroleum suppliers will be allowed to bring oil and petroleum products into Pakistan and place them in customs-controlled storage facilities without immediately becoming liable for domestic duties and taxes. The new mechanism is designed to provide greater flexibility to international suppliers while creating an additional buffer of petroleum stocks within the country. Suppliers will be able to retain their products in designated customs-bound storage facilities and subsequently decide whether to sell the stocks in Pakistan or re-export them to other destinations. According to the proposed framework, international suppliers will be able to supply petroleum products to local oil marketing companies (OMCs) and refineries when market conditions and domestic requirements warrant such sales. Alternatively, they may re-export the products without necessarily having to enter them into the domestic market. The policy is expected to create a more flexible operating environment for global oil traders and suppliers, potentially encouraging them to establish a stronger presence in Pakistan’s petroleum supply chain. The customs-bound storage mechanism would also allow petroleum products to be stored in the country while remaining under customs control. This could help suppliers manage their inventories more efficiently and respond more quickly to changes in domestic demand. Officials and policymakers see the proposed framework as a step towards improving Pakistan’s petroleum supply security, particularly during periods of heightened international market volatility or disruptions in global energy supplies. The availability of additional stocks within the country could also help reduce the risk of sudden supply shortages by providing a readily accessible reserve that can be released into the domestic market when required. For local oil marketing companies and refineries, the framework could broaden their access to international suppliers and create additional options for sourcing petroleum products. Increased competition among suppliers may also contribute to greater efficiency in the petroleum import and distribution system. The initiative is part of broader efforts to modernise Pakistan’s oil import arrangements and make the energy sector more responsive to changing international market conditions. By allowing foreign suppliers to maintain petroleum inventories under customs control, the government aims to strike a balance between facilitating international trade and maintaining regulatory oversight of products entering the country. The new policy framework is expected to establish clearer procedures governing the import, storage, domestic sale and re-export of petroleum products, while providing international suppliers with greater commercial flexibility.

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    Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim undergoes medical proce…

    KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is undergoing medical examinations and procedures, with his aide saying he is expected to remain under observation for two days. Anwar’s Press Secretary Tunku Nashrul Abaidah confirmed the development on Monday but did not disclose details about the nature of the medical procedures or the condition that prompted them. In a statement, the aide said Anwar was undergoing examinations and procedures arranged by a team of medical experts. The statement also appealed for prayers for the premier’s health and expressed hope that he would be able to return to his regular duties soon. “Let us pray … that he is blessed with long-lasting health so that he can return to his usual duties in the near future,” the statement said. The news prompted a message of support from Pakistan, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif wishing his Malaysian counterpart a swift recovery. “Wishing my dear brother, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, a swift and smooth recovery during his medical procedures,” Shehbaz wrote in a post on X. He added that the people of Pakistan were joining him in praying for Anwar’s continued good health and well-being, reflecting the close ties between the two countries. Anwar, who turned 79 on Monday, has served as Malaysia’s prime minister since 2022. His current medical observation has drawn attention partly because of previous health issues involving his back and shoulder. The Malaysian leader was hospitalised in 2018 after experiencing shoulder and back pain. More recently, he cancelled a planned visit to Pahang state in November last year because of back discomfort. Despite those previous problems, Anwar received a clean bill of health following a routine medical examination in January, according to a statement from the hospital where the check-up was conducted. The latest announcement has not indicated that Anwar is facing any serious health condition. Officials have also not provided details about when he is expected to leave medical care or resume his full schedule. For now, the Malaysian government and Anwar’s supporters are awaiting further updates from his medical team. His aide’s statement sought to reassure the public while asking for prayers as the veteran politician undergoes the procedures. Anwar’s health is closely watched as he continues to lead Malaysia through a period of economic and political challenges, making his expected return to official duties a matter of considerable public interest.

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    Petrol sold Rs139, diesel Rs116 per litre above basic cost

    Consumers continue to bear a substantial burden of taxes, levies and distribution margins on petroleum products, with a significant portion of the prices of petrol and high-speed diesel (HSD) going towards government charges and other components rather than the basic fuel cost. According to official documents, petrol is currently priced at Rs327.62 per litre, while the basic cost of the product stands at Rs197.69 per litre. This means consumers are paying around Rs130 per litre in the form of petroleum levy, taxes, freight-related charges and margins. The documents indicate that the government has imposed a petroleum levy of Rs80 per litre on petrol, making it one of the largest components of the additional charges paid by consumers. In addition to the petroleum levy, petrol carries a climate support levy of Rs5 per litre and customs duty of Rs21.24 per litre. The price also includes an inland freight equalisation margin of Rs7.48 per litre. Meanwhile, oil marketing companies (OMCs) receive a margin of Rs7.87 per litre, while petroleum dealers are entitled to a margin of Rs8.64 per litre. Taken together, these taxes, levies, freight charges and commercial margins add a sizeable amount to the underlying cost of petrol, resulting in a significant difference between the basic product cost and the final price paid at filling stations. Diesel also carries substantial charges A similar situation is visible in the pricing structure of high-speed diesel. According to the documents, the basic cost of HSD has been calculated at Rs264.76 per litre, whereas its notified consumer price stands at Rs380.86 per litre. The difference of approximately Rs116 per litre represents taxes, levies and various margins included in the final price of diesel. The petroleum levy on HSD stands at Rs74.28 per litre, while a climate support levy of Rs5 per litre is also included in the price structure. Consumers are additionally paying Rs15.68 per litre in customs duty on HSD. The inland freight equalisation margin accounts for another Rs4.63 per litre. The pricing structure also provides Rs7.87 per litre as the margin for oil marketing companies and Rs8.64 per litre as the dealers’ margin. The figures highlight the significant role played by government levies and other charges in determining retail petroleum prices. While the basic cost reflects the underlying price of the petroleum product, the final amount paid by consumers also incorporates a range of taxes, levies, freight costs and margins. The petroleum levy remains one of the most prominent components of the pricing structure for both petrol and diesel. The government uses petroleum-related levies as an important source of revenue, while other components are intended to cover costs associated with transportation, marketing and retail distribution. The high level of charges has a direct impact on consumers and businesses, particularly because petrol and diesel are widely used for transportation and commercial activities. Changes in fuel prices can also influence the cost of transporting goods and passengers and may eventually affect prices across different sectors of the economy.

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    Atif Aslam opens up about stardom, success and quitting music

    Atif Aslam is one of Pakistan’s most celebrated singers, admired by millions of fans not only in the country but also around the world. With a social media following of more than 11 million, the singer has established himself as one of the most influential voices in the Pakistani music industry. Known for his soulful vocals, emotional delivery and remarkable ability to hit high notes, Atif has given audiences numerous memorable songs throughout his successful career. From Aadat and Kuch Is Tarha to Ba Khuda and Dil Diyan Gallan, his music has earned him a massive fan base across different countries and generations. His popularity has also taken him to some of the biggest stages internationally, where he regularly performs for packed audiences. Despite his immense fame and success, Atif Aslam believes that his journey to becoming a global star was not something he had completely planned. Reflecting on his remarkable career, the singer admitted that he was often unaware of how quickly his popularity grew. According to Atif, every successful song brought a new level of uncertainty. After releasing one hit, he would wonder what would come next, while another successful track could still leave him questioning whether audiences would continue to appreciate his work. However, as his career progressed and his albums gained recognition, he began to understand the responsibility that came with being a major artist. Atif also acknowledged the significant role Bollywood played in expanding his popularity. His songs for Indian films introduced his voice to an even wider audience and contributed to his international recognition. Interestingly, the singer does not believe that his success can simply be attributed to hard work. Instead, he expressed his belief that success is ultimately in Allah’s hands. He suggested that destiny plays a major role in determining where a person eventually reaches in life. While Atif Aslam has achieved extraordinary success, he has never seriously considered walking away from music. The singer revealed that he has never thought about quitting his profession, although, like every artist, he sometimes experiences periods of creative block. He explained that creative blocks are a natural and even necessary part of an artist’s journey. There are moments when an artist may feel completely empty and unable to write or create anything. Rather than viewing such phases negatively, Atif considers them part of the creative process. According to him, artists have to experience different phases throughout their careers. After periods of uncertainty and creative emptiness, inspiration eventually returns, allowing them to feel fulfilled once again. Atif described these moments as times when the metaphorical glass feels full. During such phases, he prefers to remain quiet, appreciate what he has achieved and thank Allah for everything. With no plans to leave music, Atif Aslam continues to entertain audiences through his powerful voice and live performances. His perspective on fame, success and creativity highlights the humility behind his extraordinary career and explains why he continues to remain one of the most admired singers in Pakistan.

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    Nimra Khan shares advice for parents on daughters’ marriage

    Nimra Khan is a well-known Pakistani actress and model who has remained associated with the entertainment industry for many years. Throughout her career, she has earned recognition for her acting skills and strong presence on television. However, her personal life has also attracted considerable public attention, particularly after she went through some difficult experiences. The actress previously survived a horrific traffic accident and later spoke about facing domestic violence during her first marriage. Despite the challenges she encountered, Nimra continued to move forward and eventually found happiness again when she got married for the second time. Her second marriage initially appeared to be a happy new beginning. Nimra openly shared moments of joy with her followers and celebrated the new chapter of her life. However, the happiness did not seem to last for long. In recent weeks, both Nimra and her husband have shared cryptic posts on social media, leading fans to speculate that their relationship may have come to an end. Adding to the speculation, Nimra has removed several of her wedding pictures from social media. She has also been sharing posts discussing toxic relationships, difficult men and the importance of women maintaining their independence. Her recent messages have sparked considerable discussion among her followers. Nimra has now shared advice directed at parents who are preparing to marry off their daughters. She reposted a message from a father advising parents to carefully consider the financial circumstances and character of a man before marrying their daughters to him. The message particularly warned parents against marrying their daughters to men who are financially unstable and dependent on others. Nimra appeared to agree with the advice and emphasized the importance of checking a prospective husband’s financial situation before making such a major decision. Her message reflects a broader discussion about the responsibilities of parents when arranging or approving marriages. Financial stability, emotional maturity, respect and the ability to take responsibility are often considered important factors when evaluating a potential life partner. However, Nimra’s advice also received mixed reactions from social media users. While some people agreed with her point and appreciated her willingness to speak about the issue, others questioned whether she should be giving relationship advice based on her own experiences. One social media user commented that Nimra should focus on healing rather than becoming involved in what they described as unnecessary drama. Another person pointed out that she had already been married twice and questioned her advice about remaining single and independent. At the same time, some users defended Nimra’s viewpoint. One commenter agreed that parents should carefully evaluate a man’s circumstances before marrying their daughters but raised another question about what qualities parents should consider when evaluating girls. Nimra’s latest post has therefore opened another debate about marriage, financial stability, independence and the responsibilities of both families. While opinions remain divided, her comments have once again placed her personal experiences and views on relationships at the centre of public discussion.

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    Ronaldo wedding rumor sends fans to wrong Church

    FUNCHAL: Hundreds of Cristiano Ronaldo fans reportedly gathered outside a historic cathedral in Portugal over the weekend, hoping to catch a glimpse of the football superstar on his wedding day — only to discover that they had arrived for someone else’s ceremony. Rumors circulating on social media and in media reports claimed that Ronaldo was set to marry his longtime partner, Georgina Rodriguez, on Saturday in Funchal, the capital of Portugal’s Madeira island. Although Ronaldo’s family reportedly denied the claims, the speculation was enough to send scores of excited fans and journalists to the city’s historic Sé Cathedral. Many waited outside for hours, holding mobile phones and cameras in anticipation of the arrival of the Al Nassr star and Rodriguez. But the expected celebrity wedding never happened. Instead, the cathedral was preparing to host the wedding of a local couple, Nicole and Fabio. Fabio had already arrived at the church, while Nicole faced an unexpected challenge: getting through the crowd that had gathered outside believing Ronaldo would soon appear. The unusual situation created confusion around the cathedral, with tourists, fans and members of the media filling the surrounding streets. The Sé Cathedral administration later addressed the incident on its official Facebook page, congratulating the newly married couple while explaining that the large number of journalists and tourists had caused considerable confusion. The church eventually had to be closed while the wedding ceremony took place. In another post, the cathedral described the scene outside as something it had never experienced before, noting that the bride had difficulty entering the church because of the crowd. The guests also appeared to find the situation amusing. One guest joked to local media that they suddenly felt like celebrities themselves. Another questioned how anyone could have believed Ronaldo would arrive for a wedding without significant security arrangements. Ronaldo himself appeared to see the funny side of the episode. The footballer reportedly reacted to an Instagram post about the confusion with laughing-with-tears emojis, giving fans a glimpse of his reaction without directly confirming or denying any future wedding plans. Ronaldo and Rodriguez have been together for years and became engaged last year. Reports have previously claimed that Ronaldo presented Rodriguez with an expensive engagement ring featuring a large diamond. Despite the latest frenzy in Madeira, the couple has not announced a wedding date. For now, fans hoping to witness Ronaldo walk down the aisle will have to wait — and perhaps check the guest list before heading to the church.

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    Iran’s supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei names Bag…

    TEHRAN: Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei has reshuffled two key positions in the country’s security and political establishment, appointing Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr as his political adviser and former Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) commander Mohsen Rezaei as his representative on the Supreme National Security Council (SNSC). The appointments were announced through messages attributed to Khamenei on social media on Sunday, according to reports, placing two veteran figures with extensive military and political experience in prominent roles at a sensitive moment for Tehran. In his message to Zolghadr, Khamenei cited his “valuable experience” while appointing him as a political adviser. Zolghadr has held several senior positions in Iran’s security establishment and previously served as secretary of the SNSC. The move follows Zolghadr’s departure from the council’s top administrative position. Reports said Rezaei has been appointed to replace him as secretary of the powerful security body, while also serving as Khamenei’s representative on the council. Rezaei is a veteran figure in Iran’s political and military establishment. He served as commander of the IRGC for much of the Iran-Iraq war era and has held a range of senior political positions. He has also previously run for Iran’s presidency. The latest appointments are drawing attention because the SNSC plays a central role in coordinating Iran’s defence, security and foreign-policy decisions. Although the council is formally chaired by President Masoud Pezeshkian, its work brings together senior political, military and security institutions. The timing of the reshuffle is particularly significant as Iran faces continuing pressure over regional security and negotiations surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. Recent diplomatic efforts have focused on arrangements for shipping through the strategically important waterway, making changes within Tehran’s security leadership especially closely watched. Both Zolghadr and Rezaei are associated with Iran’s security establishment and have extensive experience in military affairs. Analysts are therefore likely to watch closely for any indication that the appointments could affect Tehran’s approach to negotiations, regional security or relations with the United States. The reshuffle also strengthens the role of figures with longstanding links to the IRGC within the leadership structure. Rezaei had already served as a military adviser to Mojtaba Khamenei before taking on the latest assignment. For Zolghadr, the new position keeps him within the senior leadership circle despite his exit from the SNSC secretaryship. His experience in security and political affairs could allow him to continue playing a role in shaping policy from the Supreme Leader’s office. The appointments come at a critical time for Iran, with international attention focused on Tehran’s security posture and the future of the Strait of Hormuz. Whether the changes represent a broader adjustment in Iran’s negotiating strategy remains to be seen, but the elevation of two experienced security figures is likely to keep Tehran’s next moves under close scrutiny.

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    Michael B. Jordan and RAYE spotted together at Six Flags

    Michael B. Jordan and British singer RAYE have sparked widespread interest after spending part of Friday at Six Flags Magic Mountain in California, where the pair were seen enjoying several of the theme park’s roller coasters. The unexpected appearance quickly drew attention after photographs and videos of the two surfaced online. In the footage, Jordan and RAYE can be seen seated on rides and talking while waiting for the attractions to begin. Their relaxed interaction and apparent enjoyment of the day prompted fans to speculate about whether the outing was more than a casual trip to the amusement park. The pair’s appearance at the Valencia-area theme park comes amid growing public curiosity about their personal lives. Social-media users reacted quickly to the images, with many questioning whether Jordan and RAYE could be romantically involved. Others pointed out that the two could simply have been spending time together as friends. At present, there is no public confirmation from either star that they are in a relationship. Reports about the outing have therefore stopped short of describing them as a confirmed couple, instead framing the situation as speculation following their public appearance. Jordan, 39, has remained one of Hollywood’s most prominent actors, earning widespread recognition for performances in films including Black Panther and the Creed franchise. His recent work in Sinners further strengthened his position as both an actor and filmmaker. RAYE, 28, has established herself as one of Britain’s most distinctive contemporary singers and songwriters. Her breakthrough album My 21st Century Blues and international hit “Escapism.” helped propel her career beyond the UK. For now, the Six Flags visit offers no definitive answer about the nature of their relationship. What is certain is that their low-key amusement-park outing has generated considerable attention, turning an ordinary day of roller coasters into one of the weekend’s most discussed celebrity sightings. https://www.thecut.com/article/michael-b-jordan-raye-dating-rumors.html

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    Ben Jones dies at 84 after massive heart attack

    Ben Jones, best known for playing mechanic Cooter Davenport on the popular television series The Dukes of Hazzard, has died at the age of 84. His wife, Alma Viator, announced his death in an emotional Facebook post on Sunday, August 9. According to Viator, Jones suffered a massive heart attack while at home. “I lost the love of my life today,” Viator shared, revealing that her husband had been resting in his favorite chair while waiting to watch the Atlanta Braves take on the New York Yankees. She described Jones as a man who lived a “rich full life” and was deeply loved by many. Viator also expressed her heartbreak, saying she loved him immensely and that he would be greatly missed. The news prompted an outpouring of grief from fans, many of whom remembered Jones for his memorable role in The Dukes of Hazzard. Fans took to social media to offer condolences and pay tribute to the late actor. Who was Ben Jones? Born on August 30, 1941, Ben Jones was an American actor, politician, and author. He gained widespread recognition for portraying Cooter Davenport, the friendly mechanic in The Dukes of Hazzard. Beyond his acting career, Jones also entered politics. He served as a member of the United States House of Representatives for Georgia from 1989 to 1993. Ben Jones’ cause of death According to his wife, Ben Jones died after suffering a massive heart attack. He was 84 years old. Ben Jones movies Throughout his career, Jones appeared in several films, including Together for Days, Deep in the Heart, Dakota, Primary Colors, Joe Gould’s Secret, and Unbreakable. Ben Jones TV shows His television credits included The Magical World of Disney, The Dukes of Hazzard, CBS Summer Playhouse, Sliders, As the World Turns, and Surface. Ben Jones leaves behind a legacy spanning entertainment and politics, with his role as Cooter remaining one of his most memorable contributions to television.