تازہ ترین

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    Karachi hospitals face fire safety gaps after PIMS…

    KARACHI: Serious shortcomings in fire safety arrangements have been reported at major government hospitals in Karachi following the deadly fire at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad, where newborns lost their lives. Hospital sources said several major public healthcare facilities in Karachi lack functional fire alarm systems and adequate emergency preparedness, raising concerns about the safety of thousands of patients and healthcare workers. At Abbasi Shaheed Hospital, operated by the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC), only 13 fire extinguishers are reportedly available across the facility. Sources said hospital staff have also not received regular fire safety training or participated in proper fire drills. The hospital reportedly does not have a fire alarm system or a designated emergency exit route. The situation is particularly concerning because hundreds of patients visit the emergency department every day, while more than 1,000 patients reportedly attend the outpatient department (OPD). Abbasi Shaheed Hospital has two generators, with one reportedly kept as a backup power source. The hospital’s Medical Superintendent said authorities were taking further steps to improve the fire safety system and address existing shortcomings. At Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC), fire extinguishers are available in the wards, but hospital sources said several of them are not functional. Sources further said the last fire drill at the hospital was conducted in 2017. The hospital also reportedly lacks an installed fire alarm system. JPMC’s Joint Executive Director said a dedicated firefighting team needs to be established at the hospital. He said each ward has a fire extinguisher, while further training for staff is also required. He added that the hospital administration would write to the Sindh government seeking additional fire safety training for employees. Meanwhile, Civil Hospital Karachi has around 180 fire extinguishers distributed among its wards. However, sources said the overall fire safety arrangements at the hospital also fall short of ideal standards. The revelations have raised concerns about the preparedness of major public hospitals in Karachi to deal with fires and other emergencies. Large government hospitals handle thousands of patients, attendants and healthcare workers every day. In the event of a fire, the absence of functional alarms, clearly marked emergency exits, regular drills and trained response teams could make evacuation difficult and increase the risk to human lives. The situation has come under renewed scrutiny after the PIMS tragedy in Islamabad, prompting calls for immediate inspections of fire safety systems at hospitals across the country. Experts and hospital officials have stressed the need for regular fire drills, functioning extinguishers, alarm systems, emergency exits and trained firefighting teams.

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    Tim Curry, iconic ‘Rocky Horror’ star, dies at 80

    LOS ANGELES: British actor Tim Curry, best known for his unforgettable performance as Dr. Frank N. Furter in The Rocky Horror Picture Show, has died at the age of 80, according to Variety and other media reports. Curry, whose distinctive baritone voice and theatrical performances made him a celebrated figure in film, television and theatre, died on August 26. The cause of death was not immediately disclosed. His portrayal of Dr. Frank N. Furter in the 1975 cult musical horror-comedy The Rocky Horror Picture Show became the defining role of his career. The film initially struggled to find a mainstream audience but later developed a passionate international following through midnight screenings. Audiences often attended screenings dressed as characters from the movie, helping turn the production into one of cinema’s most enduring cult classics. Curry first played Dr. Frank N. Furter in the original London stage production of The Rocky Horror Show in 1973. He later reprised the role for the film adaptation, appearing alongside Susan Sarandon and Barry Bostwick. Although the character brought Curry worldwide recognition, he was concerned that such an unconventional role could overshadow the rest of his career. He nevertheless embraced the part and went on to build a diverse body of work across several entertainment genres. Curry appeared in numerous films, frequently playing villains or eccentric characters. His credits included Clue, Legend, Annie, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, The Three Musketeers, The Shadow, Muppet Treasure Island and Charlie’s Angels. His career extended well beyond cinema. Curry was also a highly regarded stage performer and received three Tony Award nominations. He was nominated in 1981 for playing Mozart in Amadeus. His other Tony nominations came for My Favorite Year in 1993 and for his performance as King Arthur in Monty Python’s Spamalot in 2005. Curry’s deep, recognisable voice also made him a sought-after voice actor. He worked on numerous animated productions for film and television and won a Daytime Emmy Award in 1991 for his voice performance in Peter Pan & the Pirates. The actor became particularly associated with flamboyant and larger-than-life villains. His distinctive laugh, expressive face and commanding voice allowed him to bring a memorable theatrical quality to even supporting roles. Despite appearing in some critically unsuccessful productions, Curry remained candid about his career. He occasionally acknowledged his weaker performances with humour and continued to embrace challenging and unusual roles. Born on April 19, 1946, in Grappenhall, Cheshire, Curry studied drama at Birmingham University before pursuing a career in theatre. His career was affected by health problems later in life. He withdrew from a British stage production in 2011 because of ill health. His representatives later confirmed that he had suffered a stroke in 2012, after which he used a wheelchair and significantly reduced his professional workload. Despite these challenges, Curry continued working in entertainment. He returned to the big screen in 2024 with an appearance in the horror film Stream. Curry was also a singer and composer. He performed with his own rock band and released several albums during his career. He lived in Los Angeles and never married or had children.

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    Gold nears record high as investors set sights on …

    International gold prices could move back toward the $5,000-per-ounce level in the coming weeks as investors closely monitor inflation, US Federal Reserve policy and growing demand for safe-haven assets. Spot gold fell 0.5 percent to around $4,643 per ounce on Wednesday after reaching its highest level since mid-May earlier this week. Meanwhile US gold futures settled at approximately $4,700.70. Despite the slight decline, the recent rally has strengthened expectations that gold could make another attempt at the psychologically important $5,000 mark. The precious metal has benefited from renewed investor demand as market participants look for protection against economic and financial uncertainty. Market attention is now turning toward developments that could influence the direction of gold prices. Investors are particularly watching trade conditions in the Gulf and the impact of inflation on major economies and businesses. Another important catalyst will be a speech by US Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh on Friday. His comments could provide fresh clues about the central bank’s monetary policy outlook and potentially influence gold prices in the short term. Gold could also gain further support if concerns about the sustainability of US government finances increase. Rising concerns over government debt and fiscal stability can encourage investors to seek alternative stores of value including precious metals. With gold already trading close to record levels, several major market events could determine its next move. Inflation data and signals from the Federal Reserve are likely to remain among the most important factors for traders. If upcoming economic data strengthens expectations of easier monetary policy gold could regain upward momentum and move closer to the $5,000-per-ounce level in the near term. Lower interest rates generally make non-yielding assets such as gold more attractive to investors. At the same time continued geopolitical and economic uncertainty could further support demand for the precious metal. For now, traders will be watching the Federal Reserve’s signals inflation trends and broader market conditions closely. A combination of softer inflation and expectations of monetary easing could provide the catalyst needed for gold prices to resume their rally toward the closely watched $5,000 level.

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    Aima Baig breaks silence on domestic violence rumours

    Pakistani singer Aima Baig has addressed growing speculation surrounding a recent video in which she appeared with a visible injury near her eye. The clip quickly attracted attention on social media, prompting fans to express concern about her wellbeing and leading to widespread rumours that the singer may have been a victim of domestic violence. The speculation gained momentum after viewers noticed a bruise on her face. With little information available about how the injury occurred, some social media users began suggesting that there could be a more serious story behind it. However, Baig has now personally responded to the rumours and made it clear that there was no such incident. Taking to her Instagram Stories, the singer thanked her fans for their concern while reassuring them that she was completely fine. She directly rejected claims of domestic violence and said there was no hidden situation behind the injury. Baig explained that the bruise was the result of an accidental incident that happened early in the morning after she returned home from dance rehearsals. According to the singer, she was extremely exhausted at the time and accidentally slammed her face into a door at around 5 a.m. The incident left her with a bruise, which subsequently became the subject of intense online speculation. Baig appeared keen to put the matter to rest, stressing that there was nothing more serious behind the injury. She also revealed that she was already unwell when the accident happened. The singer said she was suffering from fever and flu at the time, making the situation even more uncomfortable. Despite feeling unwell and dealing with the injury, she assured her followers that her overall health has been improving. Baig further shared that she remains busy with her professional commitments. She said she has continued working, dancing and attending rehearsals, while describing herself as healthier and happier than she has been in a long time. Her response appeared aimed at calming concerned fans and stopping further speculation about her personal life. Rather than allowing the rumours to grow, she chose to explain the circumstances herself and clarify that the injury was simply the result of an unfortunate accident. The singer also maintained a lighthearted tone while addressing the situation. She acknowledged that she appreciated the love and concern shown by her followers but urged them not to turn an accidental moment into something more dramatic. Baig’s clarification comes as social media users continue to closely follow the personal lives of celebrities, with even minor details often sparking speculation. In this case, the visible bruise led to assumptions before the singer had an opportunity to explain what had actually happened. By speaking out, Baig has made her position clear: the injury was accidental, there was no domestic violence involved, and there is no hidden story behind the incident. She has also reassured fans that she is recovering well and continuing with her work. For now, the singer appears ready to move past the incident and focus on her music, performances and upcoming professional activities. Her message was ultimately a reminder to fans that appearances on social media do not always tell the complete story, and that speculation can quickly grow when facts are not immediately available.

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    Faisal Rao debuts a dramatic new look after major weight loss

    Nadia Khan, the well-known Pakistani host, actress and influencer, has once again found herself at the centre of online discussion, this time after showcasing the dramatic transformation of her husband, Faisal Rao. The couple frequently appears together on social media and in entertainment-related content, while Nadia has also gained attention for her candid reviews and opinions about Pakistani dramas. Faisal Rao, a former Air Force officer, recently appeared on the sets of Kya Drama Hai alongside Nadia Khan, where he opened up about his weight-loss journey and revealed the diet routine he has been following. According to Faisal, he has made significant changes to his eating habits and has shifted to a One Meal A Day (OMAD) routine. His transformation has been quite noticeable, with Faisal appearing significantly slimmer than before. After losing a considerable amount of weight, he is now focusing on maintaining his new physique and making sure that he continues to follow a disciplined lifestyle. Nadia appeared impressed by her husband’s transformation and proudly shared his new look with viewers. The couple’s appearance quickly attracted attention online, with many social media users commenting on the striking difference in Faisal’s appearance. His dramatic weight loss has also led some viewers to draw comparisons between Faisal and Bollywood filmmaker Karan Johar, who has also undergone a highly visible transformation over the years. Johar’s weight loss has frequently sparked online speculation, including allegations about the use of weight-loss medication such as Ozempic, although such speculation should not be treated as fact without confirmation. Similarly, Faisal’s new appearance became the subject of various comments, jokes and comparisons across social media. Some users focused on his slimmer face and overall transformation, while others compared his latest look with his previous appearance. One social media user jokingly asked why Faisal had suddenly started looking like Karan Johar. Another made a reference to Ozempic while commenting on his changed facial appearance. A third user, however, felt that Faisal looked better before losing the weight and expressed disappointment over his new look. The mixed reactions highlight how quickly celebrity transformations can become a topic of public discussion, particularly when a significant change in appearance is shared online. While some people praised Faisal for achieving his weight-loss goals, others appeared more interested in comparing his new appearance with well-known celebrities. Nadia’s decision to share details of Faisal’s diet has also given followers an insight into the routine behind his transformation. His shift toward One Meal A Day appears to have played an important role in his recent lifestyle changes, although individual diets can affect people differently and should ideally be followed with appropriate professional guidance. For now, Faisal Rao’s transformation continues to generate conversation, with fans and social media users debating his new appearance. Whether people prefer his previous look or his slimmer physique, there is little doubt that his weight-loss journey has resulted in a noticeable change. As Nadia continues to share glimpses of their personal and professional lives, Faisal’s latest transformation has become another talking point for their online audience.

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    Kriti Sanon responds to Kangana Ranaut’s critici…

    Bollywood actress Kriti Sanon has responded to criticism surrounding a jewellery company’s Raksha Bandhan advertisement after the campaign sparked controversy over her outfit. The advertisement featured Sanon celebrating Raksha Bandhan a Hindu festival during which sisters traditionally tie a sacred thread, known as a rakhi, around their brothers’ wrists. In the campaign Sanon was shown wearing a top and skirt while taking part in the festival celebrations. The advertisement was removed following criticism from some sections of social media users who considered the actress’s outfit inappropriate for a traditional Hindu festival. Responding to the criticism Sanon said that culture and traditions are part of a woman’s heart rather than being determined by the neckline of her clothing. The controversy intensified on Tuesday after Bollywood actress and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Member of Parliament Kangana Ranaut criticized the advertisement. Although Ranaut did not directly mention Sanon’s name in her social media post, her comments appeared to be directed at the actress and the campaign. Ranaut questioned why a woman would choose to wear what she described as a bikini while tying a rakhi to her brother when women have many different clothing options available to them. Her comments quickly attracted attention online with some social media users agreeing with her criticism of Sanon’s outfit. Several users argued that clothing choices should be more sensitive to the cultural and religious significance of traditional festivals. One social media commentator described Sanon’s top as too short and argued that there should be clear limits when portraying Hindu festivals in advertising. The debate has since expanded beyond the advertisement itself raising broader questions about women’s clothing, cultural traditions and the way religious festivals are represented in commercial campaigns. Sanon’s response has also added another dimension to the discussion with the actress emphasizing that cultural identity and traditions should not be judged solely by a woman’s clothing. The controversy highlights the growing influence of social media on advertising campaigns in India where brands can face significant public pressure over the representation of religion, culture and social values. As the debate continues the Raksha Bandhan advertisement has become a wider discussion about personal choice, cultural sensitivity and the expectations placed on women’s appearance during traditional celebrations.

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    Ramsha Khan addresses pardah and privacy at sister’s wedding

    Ramsha Khan and Khushhal Khan are among the most recognised names associated with Pakistan’s current drama industry. The two actors appeared together in popular projects including Duniyapur and Biryani, and their on-screen chemistry eventually became the subject of considerable public interest. Their relationship reportedly developed away from the spotlight before they surprised fans with news of their marriage. Following her marriage, Ramsha Khan has largely stepped away from the entertainment industry and social media. The actress has also indicated that she does not wish to continue appearing in front of cameras, choosing instead to focus on her personal life away from the public eye. However, her absence recently became a topic of discussion after her sister Alysha Khan’s wedding. Alysha, who is known as an influencer, had a relatively public wedding celebration, with several moments from the festivities making their way onto social media. Ramsha, however, was noticeably absent from most of the events. The actress was reportedly spotted at only one function, where she appeared wearing a mask and goggles. Her unusual appearance immediately caught the attention of social media users and sparked speculation about the reason behind her decision to cover her face. Some users began questioning whether Ramsha’s husband, Khushhal Khan, or her new family had placed restrictions on her public appearances. The speculation quickly turned into another controversy, with several people discussing the couple’s personal choices and questioning why Ramsha was maintaining such a high level of privacy. Amid the growing discussion, Ramsha Khan has now addressed the matter in an exclusive conversation with Hassan Chaudhary of Something Haute. According to the statement shared by Hassan, Ramsha clarified that neither her husband nor her in-laws have imposed restrictions on her. Ramsha reportedly explained that her decision is entirely personal. She simply does not want to appear on camera anymore and has no desire to remain part of the public spotlight. She also expressed that she does not want people using hashtags associated with her name or turning her private life into a subject of constant online discussion. The actress is said to be content with her married life and wants to live as a private citizen rather than continue maintaining a celebrity image. Her decision appears to be based on her own preference for privacy rather than any restrictions imposed by her husband or family. Hassan Chaudhary’s revelation has since generated mixed reactions among social media users. While some people defended Ramsha’s choice and argued that she has every right to decide how much of her personal life she wants to share, others continued to question the way she appeared at her sister’s wedding. One social media user supported her decision, writing that Ramsha has the right to choose what she wants for herself. Another person, however, questioned her appearance at the wedding and sarcastically remarked that there was no need to cover herself so extensively at her own sister’s celebration. Others turned their attention toward Khushhal Khan, with one user suggesting that if Ramsha wants complete privacy, her husband should also consider maintaining the same level of distance from the public eye. The debate highlights the intense scrutiny celebrities can face even after choosing to step away from showbiz. While Ramsha Khan may no longer want the attention associated with her celebrity status, her personal choices continue to attract public interest. For now, her statement makes it clear that her decision to remain away from cameras is one she has made for herself, as she focuses on her marriage and private life away from the entertainment industry.

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    One rangers personnel martyred, another injured in…

    MUZAFFARABAD: One Rangers personnel was martyred and another seriously injured after an armed group opened fire during a road clearance operation in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), according to security sources. The incident occurred during a clearance operation on the Sarsawa-Tatrar-Khal road, where security personnel were working to clear the route and facilitate the reopening of blocked roads for local residents. According to security sources, the armed group targeted the Rangers personnel with sniper fireduring the operation. The sudden attack resulted in two personnel sustaining gunshot wounds. The sources said Sepoy Shahnawaz, a Rangers soldier, was struck by a bullet in the chest and succumbed to his injuries. Another Rangers personnel, Lance Naik Bilal, was shot in the shoulder and suffered serious injuries. Following the attack, security personnel took steps to secure the area and deal with the situation. Further details regarding the attackers and their whereabouts were not immediately available. Security sources said the martyred Rangers personnel, Sepoy Shahnawaz, belonged to Khairpur, Sindh. His death has added to the concerns surrounding the security situation during operations to reopen roads in the region. The clearance operation was reportedly launched following strong demands from local residents, who had called for blocked routes to be reopened. The operation was aimed at removing obstacles and ensuring that transportation could resume on roads used by residents of the affected areas. The attack occurred while security personnel were carrying out their duties, highlighting the risks faced by law-enforcement and security forces during road clearance and security operations. According to the sources, the use of sniper fire made the attack particularly dangerous, as personnel involved in the clearance operation were exposed to gunfire while attempting to restore access to the road. The injured Rangers personnel, Lance Naik Bilal, was reportedly in serious condition after sustaining a bullet wound to his shoulder. Further information regarding his medical condition and treatment was not immediately available. Authorities are expected to take further security measures in the area following the incident. The identities and motives of those involved in the attack have yet to be officially disclosed. The road clearance operation itself was being conducted in response to demands from residents who wanted the closed routes reopened. Such roads are important for the movement of local communities, particularly in areas where residents depend on road links for transportation and access to essential services. The incident has also raised concerns over the security challenges faced by personnel deployed to clear and reopen routes in areas where tensions or unrest may be present. Security officials have not yet provided details about whether any arrests have been made or whether the attackers were identified. It was also not immediately clear if the clearance operation would continue following the attack. The martyrdom of Sepoy Shahnawaz and the injury to Lance Naik Bilal underline the dangers faced by security personnel while carrying out operations intended to restore road access for civilians. Authorities are likely to assess the security situation before proceeding with further clearance activities. Meanwhile, efforts to restore normal movement on the affected road remain a key concern for local residents. Further developments are expected as authorities investigate the attack and determine the circumstances surrounding the sniper firing.

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    Lahore custody deaths: Punjab police says women di…

    Punjab Inspector General Rao Abdul Karim has said that there is no evidence of physical torture or police violence in the deaths of two women who died after being taken into custody at a Lahore police station. The two women 17-year-old Amna and 22-year-old Anmol were sisters-in-law. They were arrested on August 4 in connection with a case involving alleged theft and fraud and were taken to Township Police Station in Lahore. According to police both women developed health problems within a few hours of their detention. They were subsequently taken to hospital, where they died. Speaking to the media on Tuesday night Punjab IG Rao Abdul Karim said a transparent and impartial investigation had been conducted into the incident. He claimed that a medical board had found no evidence of physical torture external injuries or wounds on the bodies of either woman. He also said that a separate magisterial inquiry conducted under Section 176 of the Code of Criminal Procedure found no evidence of police torture. The investigation included a detailed review of available CCTV footage while statements from police officers and witnesses were also recorded according to the Punjab police chief. The IG further said that the initial medical examination found multiple injection marks on the women’s arms. According to him, the marks were consistent with repeated use of injectable substances. The Punjab Forensic Science Authority collected the necessary forensic samples for further investigation and the forensic report has now been received. Citing the forensic findings, the Punjab IG claimed that both women were habitual users of different types of drugs. He said the medical board had concluded that their deaths resulted from cardiac arrest caused by a drug overdose. The police chief also claimed that both women had previous criminal cases registered against them in Lahore and Gujrat in connection with alleged fraud and cheating. He added that a review of CCTV footage showed that the women’s clothes had already been torn before they were taken into police custody. The deaths have raised questions about the circumstances surrounding the women’s detention and the events that occurred before they were taken to hospital. While the Punjab police has ruled out torture based on the available medical, forensic and investigative findings the case has attracted significant public attention. The findings of the medical and forensic investigations are expected to remain central to any further legal or public scrutiny of the Lahore custody deaths.

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    Aik Mohabbat Aur last episode receives mixed public reaction

    Aik Mohabbat Aur has been one of the popular Pakistani prime-time dramas on Green Entertainment, earning millions of views throughout its run. Starring Ahad Raza Mir and Maya Ali in the lead roles, the drama attracted viewers with its engaging storyline, strong performances, and positive themes. The drama was directed by Farooq Rind and written by Faiza Iftikhar. The much-awaited final episode of Aik Mohabbat Aur aired on Green Entertainment today, bringing the story of Khushbakht and Haroon Malik to an end. The finale concluded on a largely happy note, with the central characters finally overcoming the challenges that had affected their lives and careers. In the last episode, Khushbakht managed to avoid resignation after Haroon Malik stepped in to help her. Haroon cleverly planned against Chaudhry Sahab and exposed his wrongdoings, ultimately changing the situation in Khushbakht’s favour. His intervention allowed Khushbakht to continue pursuing her career rather than walking away from it. The ending also showed Khushbakht and Haroon moving forward with their professional lives while enjoying a happy married life. Their relationship received considerable appreciation throughout the drama, and viewers were pleased to see the couple receive a positive ending. Meanwhile, Sonya Murtaza eventually left for the United States. However, one storyline that remained unresolved was the relationship between Haroon Malik’s brother and sister-in-law. The drama did not provide a clear conclusion to their marital issues, leaving some viewers disappointed. Following the finale, social media was filled with reactions from viewers. Many fans praised the drama and said they would miss watching it every week. At the same time, several viewers felt that the ending was too sudden and that the makers could have given the finale more time to properly wrap up the different storylines. One viewer praised the overall drama but criticized the final episode for its continuity issues. According to the fan, the makers appeared to rush the ending, adding random scenes instead of properly concluding moments that had previously been mentioned. The viewer also felt that the final episodes deserved better execution. Another fan described Aik Mohabbat Aur as another impressive project for Ahad Raza Mir and praised his choice of scripts. The viewer recalled his previous acclaimed projects and said that although Aik Mohabbat Aur did not receive the level of hype it deserved, those who followed the drama genuinely enjoyed it. Several viewers specifically pointed out the unresolved story of Haroon’s brother and sister-in-law. Fans wanted to see whether the couple would reconcile and felt that this storyline deserved a proper conclusion before the drama ended. The ending also left many viewers emotional, with some admitting that they could not bear the thought of saying goodbye to the show. Others jokingly expressed concern about having to deal with the ending of another drama after becoming attached to Aik Mohabbat Aur. Interestingly, Sonya Murtaza also received praise from viewers. Some fans admitted that they initially believed Sonya would become the villain of the story but eventually came to appreciate her character and considered her one of the best characters in the drama. Maya Ali and Ahad Raza Mir’s chemistry and acting were also widely appreciated. Viewers praised their performances and the convincing portrayal of their relationship. Maya’s fashion choices in the drama also attracted compliments, with fans particularly admiring her dressing throughout the show. Overall, Aik Mohabbat Aur ended with a positive conclusion for its main couple, but the rushed execution and unresolved secondary storyline left viewers divided. Despite the criticism, the strong audience response shows that the drama managed to build a loyal fan base that will miss seeing its characters on screen.