Life & Style

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    Asim Azhar invites cover artists for ‘Khabbay Sajjay’ unplugged version

    Pakistani singer Asim Azhar is giving one talented cover artist a chance to work with him on the official unplugged version of his popular Punjabi song ‘Khabbay Sajjay’. Azhar announced the opportunity through an Instagram reel after noticing the large number of fans and musicians sharing their own covers of the track. The singer asked his followers to tag their favourite cover artist in the comments of his latest reel. He said one selected artist would get the opportunity to join him for the official unplugged rendition of the song. Azhar later shared an Instagram story to clarify that the opportunity was genuine. He said he was impressed by the creativity and talent shown by musicians who had performed their versions of the song. He also hinted that the unplugged project could include a music video featuring the selected artist. ‘Khabbay Sajjay’ is among the 10 tracks featured on Azhar’s album. The Punjabi romantic song revolves around deep affection and devotion towards a loved one. The track has also attracted significant attention on YouTube, where it has crossed the one-million-view mark. With the new initiative, Azhar is not only celebrating the song’s popularity but also creating an opportunity for emerging musicians to work alongside an established Pakistani artist.

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    Cortis urges fans to put phones down

    SEOUL: K-pop boy band Cortis is challenging a growing concert habit by asking fans to put their phones away and experience performances without constantly recording them. The group made the message central to its ongoing global tour, which is also titled “Put Your Phone Down.” The tour began in Incheon on July 18 and is scheduled to travel to several international cities before returning to Seoul later this month. During the opening show, one of the members repeatedly called on the audience to put their phones down. While some fans followed the request, thousands continued filming the performance on their devices. The band’s message has sparked debate among fans, particularly within K-pop culture, where concert videos and fancams play an important role. Fans frequently record their favourite artists and share the footage online, where clips are used to revisit performances, study choreography and capture moments that might otherwise be forgotten. Some concertgoers said recording was important because live shows can be rare and expensive experiences. One 22-year-old fan said she had even rented a high-end smartphone specifically to capture Cortis’s performances. She explained that she records concerts because memories of the event can fade quickly once the show ends. Others welcomed the group’s approach. A 25-year-old concertgoer said she noticed fans dancing and enjoying themselves more freely when they were not focused on their screens. The debate reflects a wider discussion in the global music industry. Several international artists have introduced restrictions on phone use during concerts, including systems that place devices inside locked pouches for the duration of performances. Cortis, however, appears to be taking a less restrictive approach. Rather than completely banning phones, the group has encouraged fans to treat putting their devices away as a way of being more present during the show. The band’s message also softened during its second concert. According to fans who attended, the members acknowledged that people naturally wanted to record the performances but urged them to maintain a balance between filming and enjoying the experience. The group has rapidly gained attention since making its debut under BigHit Music. Its members are mostly teenagers, while the oldest member, James, is 20. Cortis has also expanded its international profile, recently performing at the Lollapalooza music festival in Chicago. The band’s name comes from the phrase “colour outside the lines,” reflecting its stated image of challenging conventions. Its campaign against excessive phone use appears to follow that same spirit. Rather than treating concert filming as simply right or wrong, Cortis is encouraging fans to remember that a live performance is also about direct interaction between artists and their audience.

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    Gigi Hadid fuels relationship buzz with ring in Paris

    Gigi Hadid and Bradley Cooper have once again fueled speculation about the status of their relationship after they were spotted wearing matching rings during a recent outing in Paris. The couple, who have been romantically linked since October 2023, were photographed leaving a gym together on Thursday. During the outing, Hadid was seen wearing a ring on her left hand, drawing renewed attention to the jewellery that has recently sparked engagement and marriage rumours. For the casual workout session, Cooper kept his look simple, wearing a backwards white baseball cap, a blue One Tribe Foundation “Hero 365” T-shirt, and matching athletic shorts. Unlike Hadid, however, he was not seen wearing the ring during the gym visit. The pair first ignited speculation earlier this week when they appeared together in Paris wearing matching rings. Fans quickly questioned whether the accessories signaled an engagement or a secret wedding. Reports suggest Hadid’s ring is a luxury wedding band crafted by French jewellery house Boucheron. The model’s piece is believed to be the Quatre Radiant Edition Wedding Band, valued at approximately $6,450. Cooper’s matching ring is said to be the Godron Pink Gold Wedding Band, priced at around $2,120. The complementary designs have attracted attention because they symbolize unity and commitment. The double-band style of Cooper’s ring is often associated with the strength of a lasting relationship, adding to the speculation surrounding the couple’s romance. Despite the growing rumours, multiple reports indicate that the rings do not necessarily mean wedding plans are underway. According to an insider, the couple have owned the rings for several months and consider them commitment rings rather than engagement or wedding bands. The source claimed that Hadid and Cooper are happy with their relationship but are not interested in having a traditional wedding or getting married at this stage. The insider also noted that their relationship continues to grow stronger and that they are in a good place together. The latest sighting comes as Cooper spends time in Paris for professional commitments. The actor is reportedly preparing for a major film project in which he is expected to write, direct and star. The upcoming production is said to explore the backstory of Danny Ocean’s father and is set years before the events of the popular Ocean’s 11 franchise. In addition to the live-action film, Cooper is also expected to lend his voice to an upcoming animated feature directed by acclaimed filmmaker Bong Joon Ho. The project features an ensemble voice cast and is scheduled for release in 2027. Both stars have children from previous relationships. Hadid shares five-year-old daughter Khai with former partner Zayn Malik, while Cooper co-parents nine-year-old daughter Lea De Seine with model Irina Shayk. Although marriage rumours continue to circulate, neither Hadid nor Cooper has publicly commented on the significance of the matching rings, leaving fans to continue speculating about the future of their relationship.

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    Cooper Hoffman breaks silence on Nico Parker dating rumors

    Cooper Hoffman has officially confirmed his relationship with actress Nico Parker, ending months of speculation surrounding the pair’s romance. The 23-year-old actor opened up about his relationship during a recent interview, revealing that the couple first met while working together on Poetic License, the directorial debut of filmmaker Maude Apatow. Although they quickly developed a close connection on set, Hoffman explained that they did not begin dating until after filming had wrapped. According to the actor, the relationship became official when Parker visited New York to meet his mother, renowned costume designer Mimi O’Donnell. It was during that trip that Hoffman asked Parker to be his girlfriend, describing the moment as heartfelt and memorable. The actor shared that while filming helped them get to know each other, they intentionally waited until production had ended before taking their friendship to the next level. Their decision allowed them to separate work from their personal lives and build a relationship naturally. Following Hoffman’s confirmation, fans flooded social media with supportive messages celebrating the couple. Many admired their chemistry and expressed happiness that the actors had finally made their romance public. One fan commented that the pair appeared genuinely happy together and praised Hoffman for seeming kind and sincere. Another wrote that they loved seeing the two together, while a third jokingly referred to them as “two nepo babies,” acknowledging their famous Hollywood family backgrounds. Although their relationship has only now been publicly confirmed, rumors linking Hoffman and Parker have circulated since 2025. The pair first met in November 2024 while filming Poetic License, where they formed a close friendship. Despite their growing bond during production, they chose not to pursue a romantic relationship until several weeks after filming concluded. Speculation about their romance intensified in June 2025 when Parker hinted during an interview that she was seeing someone she described as “sweet.” Although she did not reveal the person’s identity, fans quickly began connecting the dots after noticing her frequent appearances with Hoffman. The rumors gained further momentum as the two were spotted together on multiple occasions, including social media posts that showcased their time together away from the spotlight. Interest in their relationship continued to grow in September 2025 when Hoffman and Parker attended the Toronto International Film Festival to promote Poetic License. During the event, the actors were photographed sharing a lighthearted moment while playing with a puppy, fueling even more speculation that they were more than just co-stars. Despite increasing public attention, both actors largely kept their private lives out of the spotlight, avoiding public discussion about their relationship for more than a year. Now, with Hoffman openly confirming their romance, fans finally have official confirmation that the pair are indeed together. His candid comments have been warmly received by supporters, many of whom have followed the couple’s journey from co-stars to partners. As both actors continue to build successful careers in Hollywood, their relationship has become one of the entertainment industry’s most talked-about young romances, with fans eager to see what lies ahead for the couple both on and off the screen.

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    Priyanka Chopra reveals next Hollywood project with Russell Crowe

    Priyanka Chopra has officially revealed her next Hollywood project, Bluefly, a science-fiction action thriller that will see her star alongside Academy Award winner Russell Crowe. The announcement marks another major international venture for the actress, who continues to expand her presence in global cinema with high-profile productions. The actress shared the update with fans on Instagram on Thursday, posting a behind-the-scenes image and captioning it simply, “On to the next.” The brief message quickly drew widespread attention, with fans and celebrities alike celebrating the exciting casting announcement. Bluefly will be directed by Nimród Antal, known for his work on action and thriller films. The screenplay has been written by David Frigerio together with William Eubank and Carlyle Eubank, promising a story packed with suspense, mystery and large-scale action. Set against the backdrop of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the film follows a grieving United Nations translator who unexpectedly becomes involved in a highly classified black-operations mission. The assignment centres on recovering a mysterious aircraft that was never meant to exist, forcing a Special Operations team to travel through dangerous militia-controlled territory. As the mission unfolds, the team discovers that retrieving the aircraft may not have been the true objective. Hidden agendas, dangerous secrets and unexpected twists transform what initially appears to be a recovery operation into a fight for survival. The storyline is expected to combine military action, science-fiction elements and psychological suspense. The film boasts an experienced production team, with Michael Jefferson, David Frigerio, Deborah Glover, Arianne Fraser, Delphine Perrier and Vanessa Yao Guo serving as producers. Their collaboration aims to deliver a large-scale thriller for international audiences. Speaking about the project, producer Delphine Perrier described Bluefly as a gripping action thriller filled with surprising twists and an emotionally layered story. She also expressed confidence that director Nimród Antal and the film’s cast would bring the ambitious project to life for viewers around the world. Priyanka’s Instagram announcement quickly attracted support from friends and colleagues across the entertainment industry. Her husband, singer Nick Jonas, reacted with fire emojis, while actress Huma Qureshi also showed her excitement in the comments section. Fans flooded the post with congratulatory messages, praising the casting and expressing enthusiasm about seeing Chopra and Crowe share the screen. Many described the pairing as one of the most exciting casting announcements of the year. Russell Crowe adds significant star power to the project. The veteran actor remains one of Hollywood’s most respected performers, earning worldwide acclaim and an Academy Award for his iconic portrayal of Maximus in Gladiator. His addition is expected to elevate the film’s international appeal. Meanwhile, Priyanka Chopra has a busy schedule ahead. Alongside Bluefly, she is preparing for her much-awaited return to Indian cinema with director SS Rajamouli’s upcoming film Varanasi. The project reunites her with Indian audiences after an eight-year gap and features an impressive ensemble cast, including Mahesh Babu and Prithviraj Sukumaran. The Indian epic is currently slated for a theatrical release in April 2027, while production on Bluefly is expected to begin soon as Chopra continues balancing major projects across Hollywood and India.

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    Sistrology face backlash over Spider-Man movie outfits

    Spider-Man fever has reached Pakistan, but a recent appearance by popular YouTube sisters Sistrology has sparked an online debate over fashion and modesty. With Tom Holland returning as Peter Parker in the latest Spider-Man film, Spider-Man: Brand New Day, the superhero has once again become a global pop culture sensation. The film has dominated conversations worldwide, drawing huge crowds to cinemas and inspiring fans to celebrate the iconic Marvel character in different ways. The excitement has also been felt in Pakistan, where moviegoers have flocked to theatres to watch the superhero adventure. As the craze continues to grow, many fans have embraced the theme by wearing Spider-Man-inspired outfits and accessories during cinema visits. Among those joining the trend were the members of Sistrology, the popular Pakistani YouTube sisters known for sharing lifestyle content, vlogs, and family moments. The younger sisters recently attended a screening of the film dressed in Spider-Man-themed outfits, documenting the experience in a vlog that quickly gained traction across social media platforms. While many viewers enjoyed the fun and playful costumes, others reacted negatively after clips from the vlog began circulating online. The sisters’ appearance soon became the subject of widespread discussion, with social media users expressing mixed opinions about their clothing choices. Critics argued that the outfits were not suitable and questioned whether they aligned with local cultural values. Some users claimed the costumes were too revealing, while others suggested the sisters should have opted for more modest attire. A number of comments focused on the contrast between international pop culture trends and traditional expectations surrounding public appearances in Pakistan. Several social media posts criticizing the vlog quickly went viral. One user questioned the absence of modesty, while another described the outfits as inappropriate. Others used humour and wordplay to mock the costumes, creating memes and jokes that spread across various platforms. Despite the criticism, the sisters also received support from fans who defended their right to express themselves through fashion. Supporters argued that the costumes were inspired by a globally popular superhero and were intended purely for entertainment. Many also pointed out that dressing according to a movie theme is a common practice at cinemas around the world and should not automatically become a source of controversy. The incident has once again highlighted how quickly social media can turn a lighthearted moment into a national discussion. Public figures and influencers often find themselves under intense scrutiny, with even casual fashion choices becoming topics of debate. As of now, Sistrology have not publicly responded to the criticism surrounding their Spider-Man-themed outfits. However, the discussion continues online, with users divided between those who believe the sisters crossed a line and those who feel they are being unfairly judged for simply participating in a global movie trend. The episode reflects the growing influence of social media in shaping public opinion, where viral moments can spark conversations about entertainment, culture, fashion, and personal expression within just a few hours.

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    Aiman Khan shares dreamy photos from Miral’s third birthday

    Aiman Khan and Muneeb Butt recently marked a special milestone as they celebrated the third birthday of their second daughter, Miral, with a memorable family gathering during their vacation. The beloved Pakistani celebrity couple, admired for both their successful acting careers and heartwarming family moments, shared glimpses of the joyful occasion that quickly caught the attention of fans on social media. The celebration took place at a picturesque beach resort, providing the perfect backdrop for an intimate birthday event surrounded by close family members and friends. The scenic location, with its breathtaking seaside views and relaxed atmosphere, added a magical touch to the festivities. The birthday girl, Miral, looked adorable in a sea-green silk gown that featured elegant detailing. She completed her princess-inspired look with a sparkling silver crown, making her the center of attention throughout the celebration. Her cheerful smile and playful energy reflected the excitement of turning three, while the beautifully decorated venue created a charming atmosphere for the occasion. Aiman Khan chose a bright yellow two-piece outfit that perfectly suited the sunny beach setting. The actress looked effortlessly graceful as she celebrated alongside her family. Muneeb Butt embraced the vacation mood by wearing a white floral-printed shirt paired with casual beachwear, giving off a relaxed and stylish look that complemented the seaside celebration. The birthday party featured elegant decorations, a beautifully designed birthday cake, and plenty of family photo sessions. The couple shared several candid moments with their daughters, capturing laughter, hugs, and playful interactions that showcased the close bond they share as a family. Their eldest daughter, Amal, and youngest daughter, Naimal, were also seen enjoying the celebration, making it a memorable day for the entire family. Among the guests who attended the birthday festivities was actress Aroosa Siddiqui, who joined the family in celebrating Miral’s special day. The event remained intimate, with only close friends and loved ones in attendance. However, Aiman Khan’s twin sister, Minal Khan, was unable to participate in the celebration as she is currently traveling across Europe. Despite her absence, fans expressed their love and best wishes for Miral through social media, where the birthday pictures quickly gained widespread attention. The celebration came shortly after the family shared highlights from their recent Eid festivities and birthday celebrations, giving fans another glimpse into their happy family life. Known for regularly sharing personal milestones with their followers, Aiman and Muneeb continue to receive admiration for balancing their successful entertainment careers with their dedication to family. With millions of followers across social media platforms, the couple remains one of Pakistan’s most popular celebrity pairs. Their family photos often generate significant engagement, and Miral’s birthday celebration was no exception. Fans flooded the comments section with warm birthday wishes for the little one, praising the beautiful decorations, stylish outfits, and the loving family moments captured throughout the event. The beachside birthday celebration served as another reminder of the couple’s strong family values, leaving fans delighted to witness yet another cherished milestone in the lives of Aiman Khan, Muneeb Butt, and their three daughters.

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    Ameesha Patel explains why she avoids marriage

    Bollywood actress Ameesha Patel has opened up about her decision not to get married. The actress recently interacted with her fans during a question-and-answer session on social media platform X. During the session, a fan asked Patel when she planned to get married. The actress responded in a humorous and straightforward manner, saying that she had no plans to marry and was very happy living her life independently. Patel said she already has a large circle of people who love and support her. She explained that around 100 people, including close family members and friends, are already part of her life and provide her with companionship. The actress further joked that she could not tolerate someone entering her life and changing everything. Her response reflected her independent approach to marriage and relationships. Patel’s candid comments attracted attention from her followers. Many fans appreciated her humorous response and her confidence in choosing a lifestyle that makes her happy. The actress has remained active in the entertainment industry and regularly interacts with her followers on social media. Her latest comments have once again sparked interest in her personal views on marriage and relationships.

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    Rubina Ashraf urges greater awareness of postpartum depression

    Rubina Ashraf, one of Pakistan’s most respected television veterans, recently spoke about the importance of recognizing postpartum depression and supporting women through pregnancy and motherhood. Appearing on a morning television show, the actress shared her thoughts on the emotional and psychological challenges many women experience before and after childbirth, emphasizing that these struggles deserve greater awareness and compassion. Having spent decades in the entertainment industry as an actress, director, and producer, Rubina has earned widespread recognition for her memorable performances in dramas such as Pas-e-Aaina, Tapish, Kasak, Do Bol, Khuda Aur Muhabbat 3, and Iqtidar. She also received praise for directing the acclaimed drama serial Ruswai. Beyond her successful career, Rubina is a devoted mother of two, and her daughter, Nawal Tariq, has also established herself as an actress in Pakistan’s television industry. During the conversation, Rubina highlighted how discussions around postpartum depression were almost nonexistent in previous generations. She explained that society traditionally viewed childbirth as a routine responsibility for women, often overlooking the immense physical and emotional changes they experienced. According to Rubina, people now need to understand that pregnancy is far more than a physical process. She said that a woman undergoes significant transformations in her body, skin, hormones, and emotions, making the journey both physically demanding and mentally exhausting. While pregnancy is often associated with happiness and excitement, it can also bring anxiety, stress, and emotional vulnerability. She stressed that pregnancy-related anxiety and postpartum depression are genuine medical and psychological conditions rather than signs of weakness. Rubina noted that many women silently struggle because their emotional health is ignored or misunderstood. Without proper care and emotional support, these feelings can develop into severe depression, affecting both the mother and her family. The actress urged families to become more aware of these challenges and encouraged them to provide women with understanding instead of judgment. She explained that a pregnant woman should not be expected to manage every household responsibility while dealing with the physical and emotional demands of pregnancy. Instead, she needs kindness, patience, and reassurance from those around her. Rubina particularly emphasized the crucial role of husbands during this period. She said that a husband’s support should begin during pregnancy and continue after childbirth, as these months can be among the most difficult in a woman’s life. Emotional encouragement, practical help, and compassion can make a significant difference in a mother’s mental well-being and recovery. She added that expecting mothers often feel overwhelmed because they are trying to balance multiple responsibilities while their bodies and emotions are constantly changing. Without a supportive environment, these pressures can become unbearable. Rubina’s heartfelt remarks have resonated with many viewers, drawing attention to the importance of maternal mental health. As awareness of postpartum depression continues to grow, her message serves as a reminder that emotional well-being is just as important as physical health during pregnancy and after childbirth. By encouraging empathy, open conversations, and stronger family support, she hopes more women will receive the care they need during one of the most life-changing phases of their lives.

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    Kinza Hashmi visits National Assembly after praise…

    Pakistani actor Kinza Hashmi visited the National Assembly after receiving praise from lawmakers for her portrayal of a politically influential woman in the drama Leader. Hashmi was invited to the parliament by MNA Romina Khurshid Alam. The actor shared highlights from her visit in an Instagram reel on Thursday. During the visit, Alam accompanied Hashmi through different parts of the National Assembly building. She showed the actor several artworks, historical displays, dioramas and other artefacts kept inside the building. Hashmi also visited the National Assembly floor and met staff members. She later spent time in Alam’s office, where the lawmaker presented her with a token of appreciation. Alam praised Hashmi for bringing the experiences and challenges of women involved in politics to television. She said she was proud of the actor’s work and appreciated the way she represented female politicians through her performance. The lawmaker described Hashmi’s portrayal as meaningful and said her work had helped bring greater attention to the role of women in political life. Hashmi also met Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar during her visit. According to the actor, they held a productive discussion about several important matters. She said the conversation particularly focused on issues faced by women working in Pakistan’s media industry. Reflecting on her parliamentary visit, Hashmi said the experience gave her a better understanding of the character she plays in Leader. She noted that politics is not simply about privilege or power. It also involves responsibility, public service, duty and long-term commitment. The actor said visiting the parliament allowed her to see the political system from a different perspective. The experience also helped her connect more deeply with the themes explored through her character. Hashmi’s performance in Leader has recently attracted attention from several politicians. In July, Romina Khurshid Alam and Balochistan MNA Jamal Raisani publicly praised her acting. Alam said Hashmi had fully embraced the character and described her performance as outstanding. Raisani also expressed appreciation for the actor’s portrayal. Hashmi thanked both lawmakers for their supportive comments and recognition of her work. In Leader, Hashmi plays Rubab, the daughter of a powerful politician from a feudal background. Her character initially grows up under the influence of her father and his political network. As the story develops, Rubab begins to establish her own identity. She eventually takes control of her father’s political organisation and emerges as a determined party leader. Her character’s political journey has made the drama a talking point among viewers, while Hashmi’s portrayal has drawn attention from audiences as well as people working in politics.