Life & Style

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    Sarwat Gilani celebrates Special Olympics athletes

    Renowned Pakistani actor and Special Olympics Pakistan (SOP) Ambassador Sarwat Gilani shared heartwarming moments from the organization’s three-day national sports competition, which concluded following a vibrant celebration of inclusion, sportsmanship, and determination. The three-day event, held from July 21 to July 23, brought together athletes with intellectual disabilities from across the country to showcase their athletic talents and foster a spirit of unity through sports. Taking to social media, Gilani shared a recap featuring photos and video clips highlighting her interactions with competitors, volunteering alongside organizers, and presenting awards to winners during the closing ceremony. The national competition featured a total of 82 athletes representing diverse regions, including Sindh, Punjab, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and the Federal territory. Highlighting the success of the games, Special Olympics Pakistan praised the participating athletes on its official social media channels, noting that every moment of the tournament reflected the intense passion and dedication of the individuals involved. Reflecting on her long-standing commitment as brand ambassador and advocate for the organization’s mission, Gilani emphasized the broader societal importance of empowering individuals with special needs: “At Special Olympics Pakistan, we celebrate athletes who redefine courage, resilience, and possibility every single day. They don’t just compete — they inspire a nation. They remind us that inclusion is not charity; it is justice. It is love in action.” In addition to celebrating the sports gathering, Gilani used the platform to promote Inclusion Rocks, an upcoming concert series aiming to raise awareness and support for the cause. Featuring musicians Faisal Kapadia and Murtaza Qizilbash, the musical initiative is scheduled to take place across Karachi, Islamabad, and Lahore. Special Olympics Pakistan continues to work towards transforming the lives of people with intellectual disabilities through sports, creating opportunities for nationwide participation and building a more inclusive society. Gilani’s active participation and advocacy during the national event served to further spotlight the remarkable resilience and achievements of the nation’s special athletes.

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    Shahid Afridi faces backlash over fan video

    Former Pakistan cricket captain Shahid Afridi has come under criticism after a video showing him pushing away a fan went viral on social media. The incident reportedly took place as Afridi was being escorted through a crowd. In the circulating footage, a young fan can be seen approaching the former cricketer before Afridi appears to push him away. The video quickly gained attention online, with users expressing disappointment over the former cricketer’s apparent reaction. Several social media users questioned whether celebrities should treat fans more respectfully, particularly when people approach them out of admiration. Afridi remains one of Pakistan’s most recognisable former cricketers. During his playing career, he built a huge following because of his aggressive batting, powerful hitting and energetic personality. Even after retiring from international cricket, he has remained in the public eye through charity initiatives, television appearances and social media activity. However, the latest video has shifted attention toward his interaction with the fan. Some users called for Afridi to explain the situation or apologise, while others criticised what they described as an unfriendly attitude. At the same time, the short clip does not provide the full context of what happened before or after the incident. It is therefore unclear what prompted Afridi’s reaction or whether there were circumstances surrounding the encounter that are not visible in the footage. The video continues to circulate across social media platforms, generating mixed reactions among users. While some have strongly criticised Afridi, others have urged people not to judge the complete situation based solely on a brief clip.

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    Ali Gul Pir pushes back against parenting advice

    Comedian Ali Gul Pir has spoken about the unsolicited advice new parents often receive in Pakistani society, using his trademark humour to challenge some of the common warnings directed at mothers and fathers. Gul Pir recently became a father to a baby boy, Salar, with his wife, Dr Azeemah Nakhoda. He used a social media reel to share his thoughts on the comments and expectations that often surround first-time parents. One of the first issues he addressed was the common warning that having a baby means saying goodbye to a good night’s sleep forever. Gul Pir questioned the idea, saying babies eventually settle into routines and begin sleeping for longer periods. He also rejected the belief that becoming parents means their personal lives are effectively over. According to the comedian, every family has a different experience and the difficulties faced by one set of parents should not automatically be presented as the future of every new parent. Gul Pir also spoke about another common belief — that children and pets should not live together. As a dog owner, he disagreed with the idea and referred to research suggesting that children who grow up around pets may develop fewer allergies and greater compassion. The comedian then turned his attention to questions about having a second child. He joked that people who constantly ask about expanding their family should not expect to receive personal updates. His response also highlighted how intrusive questions can become overwhelming for new parents. Gul Pir suggested that couples should be allowed to make decisions about their families without constant outside commentary. He also criticised people who comment on women’s bodies shortly after childbirth. Gul Pir questioned why women are often expected to quickly return to their pre-pregnancy appearance. His broader message was about the pressure Pakistani society can place on people whenever they enter a major new phase of life. Gul Pir said big life changes naturally involve sacrifices. However, he argued that people should focus on the positive experiences that come with those changes instead of constantly warning others about what they might lose. The comedian welcomed his first child, Salar, last month. He publicly announced the arrival of his son on Father’s Day by sharing family photographs and pictures of the gifts he received for the occasion.

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    Ryan Gosling officially joins Marvel as the new Ghost Rider

    Ryan Gosling is officially joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe after being announced as the new Ghost Rider during Marvel Studios’ Hall H presentation at San Diego Comic-Con on July 25. The surprise announcement thrilled fans as Gosling appeared on stage alongside Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige, who confirmed that the actor will headline a standalone Ghost Rider movie. The project marks Gosling’s first venture into the superhero genre and one of Marvel’s most anticipated future films. Speaking during the panel, Gosling shared his excitement about taking on the iconic role, revealing that portraying Ghost Rider has been a long-time dream. “As you know, this is a character I’ve wanted to play for a long time,” the actor said, drawing loud cheers from the audience gathered at Hall H. Ghost Rider is one of Marvel’s most recognizable supernatural heroes. The character was previously portrayed by Nicolas Cage in the 2007 film Ghost Rider and returned in the 2012 sequel Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance. Gosling now becomes the latest actor to bring the fiery antihero to life on the big screen as Marvel introduces the character into its interconnected cinematic universe. The upcoming film will be directed by Shawn Levy, who recently earned praise for directing the blockbuster Deadpool & Wolverine. Levy is also collaborating with Gosling on the upcoming Star Wars: Starfighter, making Ghost Rider their second major project together. Addressing the Comic-Con audience, Levy reflected on returning to Hall H after his previous Marvel appearance. “I’m having the greatest flashback vibes here because I was here two years ago when we showed Deadpool & Wolverine,” he said. Levy also praised Gosling, expressing his enthusiasm about working with him again. “I’ll never forget that night because I was introduced to the greatest fans. Gosling is the absolute s—. I say that with tremendous respect. We spent a lot of time last year making Starfighter, and the opportunity as Ryan started talking about this character, I was like, ‘Bro, let’s ride.’ We’ll see you in 2028!” Levy told the cheering crowd. Although Marvel Studios has not announced an official release date for the movie, Levy’s comments hinted that fans may have to wait until 2028 to see Ghost Rider arrive in theaters. The announcement has generated significant excitement among Marvel fans, many of whom have long hoped to see the supernatural hero become part of the MCU. Gosling’s casting has also sparked widespread discussion on social media, with many praising the decision and expressing curiosity about how the actor will interpret the iconic character. With an acclaimed director attached and one of Hollywood’s biggest stars stepping into the role, Marvel’s new Ghost Rider film is already shaping up to be one of the studio’s most highly anticipated projects. Fans will now be waiting for more details about the cast, storyline, and release schedule as development moves forward.

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    Qudsia Ali, Abbas Ashraf discuss modern relationship challenges

    Pakistani actors Qudsia Ali and Abbas Ashraf Awan have opened up about the growing challenges in modern relationships, sharing their thoughts on why many marriages struggle and how family upbringing plays a significant role in shaping people’s behavior. Qudsia Ali Abbas Ashraf interview Aik Mohabbat Aur, discussed issues such as toxic masculinity, insecurity, and unhealthy relationship dynamics during a recent interview. Speaking about the behavior of some men, Abbas Ashraf said that many negative personality traits begin at home. According to him, parents often raise sons with a sense of superiority by repeatedly telling them they are more important than daughters or that they are the family’s future and primary heirs. He explained that such parenting creates an unhealthy mindset where boys grow up believing they deserve special treatment. Abbas stressed that children should be raised equally, regardless of gender, so they develop mutual respect and healthier attitudes toward relationships. He added that when parents teach sons and daughters the same values and responsibilities, it becomes easier to build a society where men treat women as equals rather than believing they have authority over them. Qudsia Ali also shared her perspective on why some women remain in emotionally unhealthy relationships despite facing repeated disappointment or mistreatment. The actress suggested that a lack of emotional support during childhood can leave lasting effects. She said some women grow up without receiving enough affection or validation from their families, making them more likely to accept even the smallest signs of attention later in life. According to Qudsia, this emotional deprivation can cause women to become deeply attached to relationships that are not healthy for them. She explained that when someone has experienced a shortage of love, even temporary affection may feel meaningful enough to overlook harmful behavior. She further noted that insecurity often becomes a major factor in these situations. Women who struggle with low self-confidence may fear losing a relationship, even if it is emotionally damaging, because they believe they may not find love elsewhere. Reflecting on her own journey, Qudsia admitted that she also experienced insecurities in the past. However, she emphasized that personal growth and self-awareness helped her recognize those feelings and gradually overcome them. The actress encouraged individuals to work on building confidence and understanding their self-worth rather than relying entirely on validation from others. The discussion resonated with many viewers because it touched on issues that frequently appear in real-life relationships as well as television dramas. Their comments highlighted the importance of healthy parenting, emotional well-being, and equal treatment within families. While both actors acknowledged that every relationship is unique, they agreed that respect, emotional security, and equality are essential for building lasting partnerships. They also suggested that addressing these issues early in life could help reduce toxic behavior and create healthier relationships in the future.

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    Bollywood stars celebrate Gen Z after India’s education minister resigns

    Several Bollywood celebrities have praised India’s young protesters after Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned amid weeks of youth-led demonstrations. The resignation came after thousands of students protested over alleged irregularities in examinations. The protesters demanded major changes to the education system. They also called for greater accountability from officials. The movement was driven largely by young people and gained significant attention on social media. Demonstrations were held in New Delhi and other parts of India. Pradhan submitted his resignation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday. His decision was welcomed by protesters, who described it as a major victory for their campaign. The development also triggered a wave of reactions from Bollywood and other entertainment personalities. Actor Alia Bhatt praised Generation Z for making its voice heard. She said the younger generation had stepped forward and changed the course of events. Sara Ali Khan also reacted to the development. She shared a post highlighting the importance of democracy. Her message was accompanied by heart, folded-hands and Indian flag emojis. Ibrahim Ali Khan, the son of actor Saif Ali Khan, also celebrated the resignation. He said he was happy that the voices of young people had been heard. Sonakshi Sinha shared a video on social media in which she appeared to salute Generation Z. Her post expressed appreciation for the students who had continued their campaign. Veteran actor Prakash Raj also congratulated the young protesters. He used the phrase “Dear Cockroaches” while praising those who participated in the movement. He said the protesters had demonstrated their ability to put pressure on those in power. Priyanka Chopra also shared posts about the resignation. Her posts highlighted the length of the student campaign and the role of young protesters in pushing the issue into the national spotlight. Other celebrities, including Vaani Kapoor, Malaika Arora, Ayesha Kanga, Anjali Sivaraman and Tina Datta, also expressed support for the students. Vaani Kapoor said the moment belonged to students who had continued questioning the system and demanding change. Malaika Arora shared posts celebrating Generation Z and the date of the resignation. Tina Datta described the development as a major victory. The protests were organised around several demands. Students wanted Pradhan to leave office. They also demanded compensation for people affected by alleged examination irregularities. Another major demand was the withdrawal of legal cases against protesters. The youth-led movement also received support from activist Sonam Wangchuk. His hunger strike became another important part of the campaign and drew further attention to the protesters’ demands. The Cockroach Janta Party, which was associated with the movement, later announced that its demands had been accepted following negotiations. Protesters subsequently moved towards ending demonstrations at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. Pradhan confirmed his resignation in a statement. He said he was deeply affected by the events surrounding the protests. He also stressed that his decision was not about personal prestige. He said India’s young population was an important strength for the country. The resignation also prompted reactions from opposition leaders. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi described it as a major development. Gandhi called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to respect students and address their concerns. He also demanded action against those accused of violence against protesters. The protests have highlighted growing concerns among young Indians over examination procedures, transparency and accountability. The strong response from celebrities has also brought wider public attention to the movement. Their social media posts helped amplify the protesters’ message among millions of followers. For the protesters, Pradhan’s resignation represents a significant achievement. For the government, the development adds pressure to address concerns surrounding examinations and the wider education system.

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    Viral 1970s PTV clip reignites debate over changing TV standards

    A vintage clip from a 1970s Pakistan Television (PTV) drama has gone viral on social media, reigniting conversations about how the country’s television industry and cultural standards have changed over the decades. PTV, Pakistan’s oldest television network, first went on air in November 1964 and quickly became known for producing memorable dramas, educational programs, and family-oriented entertainment. Many of its productions from the 1960s and 1970s are still remembered for their strong storytelling, talented actors, and high production quality. Over the years, however, the broadcaster’s programming evolved alongside Pakistan’s changing political and social landscape. The recently resurfaced clip is from the classic PTV play Parchaiyaan. In the scene, several female characters are seen wearing elegant sarees paired with sleeveless blouses, a fashion choice that has caught many younger viewers by surprise. The attire, which reflected the style of that era, has sparked widespread discussion online, with many people saying such costumes would be unlikely to appear on mainstream Pakistani television today. The video quickly gained traction across social media platforms, where users compared the fashion and creative freedom of the 1970s with modern television standards. Many viewers expressed surprise that such scenes were once broadcast on the country’s state-owned television network. Some social media users described the clip as evidence that Pakistani television once embraced a more modern and progressive visual style. Others questioned whether the footage was authentic, with one user asking if it had really aired on PTV. Another remarked that the television industry of the time appeared far more liberal than many people assume today. Not everyone viewed the clip positively. Some users argued that the clothing shown in the scene was too revealing by today’s standards, while others said the discussion highlighted how cultural expectations and public attitudes have shifted over the decades. Several viewers, however, praised the actresses featured in the clip for carrying the traditional outfits with grace and elegance. One user admired the woman dressed in a black saree, saying she wore the outfit confidently despite the short-sleeved blouse. Others pointed out that sarees were a common part of formal fashion in Pakistan during that period, particularly among urban families and in television productions. The viral discussion has also revived broader conversations about the evolution of Pakistan’s entertainment industry. Many users reflected on how television content has changed over time due to shifting social values, cultural preferences, and broadcasting policies. Some believe earlier productions offered greater artistic freedom, while others argue that changing audience expectations naturally influenced the direction of television programming. As the clip continues to circulate online, it serves as a reminder of how fashion, media, and public opinion evolve across generations. Whether viewed as a symbol of artistic expression or simply a reflection of its time, the decades-old scene has once again placed PTV’s rich television history at the center of public conversation.

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    Sadia Imam’s eyebrow lift look sparks debate on social media

    Pakistani actress and television host Sadia Imam has become the center of discussion on social media after her latest appearance drew widespread attention for her noticeably lifted eyebrows. Photos and clips from the appearance quickly circulated online, with many users sharing mixed reactions to her changed look. Sadia Imam is regarded as one of Pakistan’s well-known television personalities, having earned recognition through her performances in several popular drama serials over the years. She rose to prominence with her work in classic PTV productions and later appeared in numerous successful projects, establishing herself as a familiar face in the country’s entertainment industry. Alongside acting, she has also built a successful career as a television host. The recent discussion began after Sadia Imam appeared via video link during a television program earlier this week. While viewers tuned in to hear her thoughts during the show, much of the online conversation shifted toward her facial appearance, particularly her prominently arched eyebrows. Shortly after the broadcast, screenshots and video clips from the program spread across social media platforms, prompting users to comment on what they described as an unusually lifted eyebrow look. Many questioned whether the appearance was the result of a beauty filter used during the video call, while others speculated that it could be linked to cosmetic procedures such as Botox or an eyebrow lift. Several social media users claimed that the change in her facial expressions made her look noticeably different from her previous television appearances. Some described the look as overly dramatic, while others suggested that cosmetic enhancements should remain subtle to preserve natural facial features. However, not all reactions were critical. A number of users urged others to avoid judging celebrities based solely on their appearance, arguing that every individual has the right to make personal choices regarding beauty treatments or cosmetic procedures. Others pointed out that lighting, camera angles, makeup, or video filters can significantly alter a person’s appearance on screen, making it unfair to draw conclusions from short video clips. The discussion once again highlighted how public figures often face intense scrutiny over their appearance, with even minor changes becoming a topic of widespread debate across digital platforms. In recent years, several celebrities from Pakistan and abroad have encountered similar reactions after appearing with different makeup styles, cosmetic enhancements, or aesthetic procedures. As the clips continue to circulate online, Sadia Imam has not publicly addressed the comments or responded to the speculation surrounding her appearance. Meanwhile, the conversation continues across social media, with opinions remaining divided between those criticizing the look and those calling for greater respect for personal choices and privacy.

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    Sanam Jung celebrates daughter Alaiza’s second birthday

    Pakistani actress and television host Sanam Jung recently celebrated the second birthday of her younger daughter, Alaiza, with a charming fairytale-themed gathering. Sanam, who is currently visiting Pakistan, marked the special occasion with family members. The celebration featured a beautiful Rapunzel-inspired theme, creating a colourful and magical setting for the birthday girl. The venue was decorated with pastel balloons, a castle-style backdrop and Rapunzel’s signature sun emblem. A specially designed cake was also prepared for the occasion. The birthday cake featured a tower-inspired design decorated with flowers and butterflies. Matching cupcakes added to the themed arrangements. Sanam Jung and her daughters, Alaya and Alaiza, also dressed according to the theme. Sanam’s sisters joined the celebrations and wore matching Rapunzel-inspired outfits. The family shared several memorable moments from the celebration, giving fans a glimpse of the colourful birthday setup. Sanam Jung is a familiar face in Pakistan’s television industry. She has worked as both an actress and morning-show host and has appeared in several popular dramas. Her acting credits include Dil-e-Muztar, Alvida, Qaraar, Pyari Mona, Dhoka and Mere Humdam Mere Dost, among others. She has also built a large following on social media, where she regularly shares glimpses of her professional and family life. Sanam currently lives in the United States with her husband, Qassam, and their two daughters, Alaya and Alaiza.

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    Prince Harry and Meghan Markle spark fresh marriage speculation

    Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have once again become the subject of public discussion following renewed reports about their relationship, with claims suggesting the couple may be leading increasingly separate lives. According to recent media reports, an unnamed source alleged that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have been spending significantly less time together in recent months. The source claimed that while the couple remain committed to their family and professional responsibilities, their daily routines and personal priorities have gradually shifted in different directions. The report suggested that the changes are not limited to their busy work schedules. Instead, it claimed that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have developed separate focuses, resulting in fewer shared public appearances and less time spent together compared to previous years. Observers have noted that the couple have attended several events independently in recent months, fueling speculation about the state of their marriage. However, no official statement has been issued by either Prince Harry or Meghan Markle regarding the claims, and the reports remain unverified. One example highlighted in the report was Prince Harry’s solo trip to the United Kingdom in connection with preparations for the 2027 Invictus Games. The Duke has remained closely involved with the international sporting event for wounded, injured, and sick service personnel and veterans since its launch, and his recent visit was linked to planning activities for the upcoming edition. Meanwhile, Meghan Markle has reportedly been focusing on expanding her business ventures and lifestyle projects in the United States. She has continued to pursue various entrepreneurial initiatives while also balancing family life with the couple’s two children. The latest claims have reignited widespread discussion across social media, where royal watchers continue to debate the couple’s relationship. Similar rumors have surfaced on several occasions since Prince Harry and Meghan stepped back from their roles as senior members of the British royal family in 2020. Despite recurring speculation, the couple have previously presented a united front during interviews and public appearances. Relationship rumors involving high-profile public figures often attract significant attention, particularly when the individuals involved maintain busy and separate professional commitments. However, independent confirmation of such reports is frequently unavailable, making it difficult to determine the accuracy of anonymous claims. As of now, there is no official confirmation that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are experiencing marital difficulties or living separately. The latest reports are based solely on unnamed sources and have not been substantiated by representatives for the couple. Until either Prince Harry or Meghan Markle publicly addresses the speculation, the claims should be viewed as unverified reports rather than established fact. Their supporters and royal commentators alike will likely continue to monitor the couple’s public appearances and future engagements for any indication of their current relationship status.