Makkah Pact Seen as key to regional stability

Preity Zinta found herself caught off guard when Amitabh Bachchan brought up a playful complaint during their much-awaited reunion on Kaun Banega Crorepati. The Kal Ho Naa Ho actress is set to appear on the popular quiz-based reality show after several years, joining veteran actor Amitabh Bachchan for a special episode. The upcoming episode has already generated excitement among fans, particularly because it brings together some of Bollywood’s biggest stars. In a newly released promo, Bachchan can be seen telling Preity that he has a major complaint against her. The legendary actor reminded the actress that he wishes her every year on her birthday, January 31, but claimed that she has never responded to his wishes. “I have a huge complaint with you. I wish you on your birthday on January 31 every year, and you didn’t even respond to me once,” Amitabh tells Preity in the promo. The unexpected remark left the actress seemingly surprised, creating a lighthearted moment between the two stars. While Bachchan’s complaint appeared to be playful, it also brought back memories of a similar interaction involving the actors. Amitabh had previously raised the same amusing grievance when Preity Zinta appeared on Kaun Banega Crorepati alongside Sunny Deol. At the time, the actors were on the show to promote their historical drama Batwara 1947. During their appearance, Bachchan once again brought up his birthday wishes to Preity, turning the conversation into a humorous exchange. The latest promo has sparked curiosity among viewers about how Preity will respond to the veteran actor’s latest complaint. While some fans have jokingly speculated about a possible issue between the two stars, the interaction appears to be more of a friendly and playful exchange between longtime industry colleagues. The upcoming episode will also feature Sunny Deol making his debut on the Kaun Banega Crorepati hot seat. Preity and Aamir Khan will join him as special guests for the grand premiere of the new season. Aamir also adds to the fun during the episode when he questions Amitabh about a line from the show’s promotional campaign. Referring to Bachchan’s use of the phrase “Sochna Padega,” Aamir asks what exactly contestants need to think about. Amitabh responds with a trademark smirk, telling Aamir that the game will not be easy because contestants genuinely have to think before answering. The new season marks the 18th instalment of Kaun Banega Crorepati. The much-awaited season is scheduled to premiere on Monday, August 10, at 9 PM on Sony Entertainment Television and SonyLIV. With Amitabh’s witty exchanges, Preity’s return to the show and appearances by Sunny Deol and Aamir Khan, the premiere episode is expected to offer plenty of entertaining moments for viewers.

Asma Abbas is a well-known Pakistani television actress who has earned praise for her performances in several popular dramas, including Ranjha Ranjha Kardi, Khumaar, Akbari Asghari, GT Road, Baby Baji Ki Bahuwain, and Radd. She is also the mother of actress Zara Noor Abbas. Asma Abbas is married to retired Colonel Ghulam Abbas, who was previously married. The actress has spoken openly about their relationship and revealed that her husband fell in love with her and wanted to have children with her, which eventually led to their marriage. She has also maintained that she shared a good relationship with his first wife and lived peacefully with her until her death. Recently, Asma Abbas appeared on the television show Zabardast, hosted by Wasi Shah, alongside her husband. During the conversation, retired Colonel Ghulam Abbas shared details about what happened after he married Asma. He explained that his first wife initially moved to the United States after his second marriage. According to him, she told him that she wanted to visit her sister in America, and he helped arrange her visa. She left their child behind and returned to Pakistan around six months later. The retired army officer said that after her return, she continued to have an important place in their household. He recalled that the bedroom remained hers while he moved to Quetta for work. He also praised both women for staying with him despite the difficulties associated with his postings and career. Ghulam Abbas expressed gratitude toward his first wife and Asma, saying that they supported him through difficult periods and made his life easier. He further credited his first wife for accepting the situation and revealed that the two women eventually became close friends. According to him, there was even a point when Asma and his first wife would join forces against him during disagreements, turning their relationship into an unexpected friendship. However, the couple’s comments did not receive a positive response from everyone. Several social media users criticized Asma Abbas and her husband, arguing that the discussion appeared to overlook the emotional impact of a second marriage on the first wife. One commenter accused the couple of glorifying the second marriage and questioned why a married man would be pursued in the first place. Another described Asma as a “homewrecker” and argued that the first wife was the one who ultimately had to bear the consequences. Some users also challenged the narrative surrounding the first wife, particularly claims about her family life and children. Others questioned the decision to publicly discuss the circumstances of the marriage in a celebratory manner. While Asma Abbas and her husband presented their relationship as one that eventually became peaceful and respectful, the interview sparked a wider debate online about second marriages, the rights and emotions of first wives, and the complicated dynamics that can arise within families.

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani was once known as rapper Young Cardamom. He has not left his music roots behind. This week, he revealed that Pakistani rapper Shamoon Ismail is currently on his playlist. Speaking with Rolling Stone, Mamdani was asked what he has been listening to. He named Radio & Weasel, a Ugandan duo that topped charts for years. He also mentioned Shamoon Ismail, saying he has followed the Pakistani rapper for a few years now. Whenever he is feeling reflective, he said, he puts on Kacey Musgraves. It is not clear how Mamdani discovered Ismail’s music. But the choice fits his background. He was born to a Ugandan father and an Indian mother, and raised in New York. His music taste reflects that mix. It also shows his close ties to the South Asian communities he represents. He has not specified which Ismail songs he is playing right now. This also is not the first time he has shown love for South Asian music. After his primary win, he walked off stage to the Bollywood hit “Dhoom Machale.” Fans still remember that moment. Mamdani’s taste is wide ranging. He has also spoken fondly of Taylor Swift, Jay Z, and Kim Petras. He is a fan of Indian American rapper Himanshu Suri, known as Heems. Mamdani has said Heems is part of the reason he entered politics. As for Ismail, his soulful rap style keeps building a strong following. Recent tracks like “used to it,” “Alone Together,” and “VOLUME” have racked up big streaming numbers. The singer recently took some time away from the spotlight. That break reportedly lined up with a major personal milestone, possibly an engagement or a wedding. He resurfaced on New Year’s Eve with a handwritten note to fans. He described the time away simply as a “transition.” Mamdani’s shoutout is likely to boost Ismail’s profile further. This is especially true among fans who enjoy seeing South Asian artists recognized on a global political stage.

Jon Hamm and Anna Osceola are entering an exciting new chapter as they prepare to welcome their first child together. The couple, who have been married for two years, recently sparked pregnancy reports after Osceola was spotted showing off what appeared to be a growing baby bump during a beach outing in the Hamptons. The 38-year-old actress enjoyed a relaxing day by the water with her 55-year-old husband, who appeared equally happy to spend quality time with her. Osceola was photographed wearing a dark green bikini that highlighted her growing belly. She appeared to be enjoying the summer weather as she took a dip in the ocean before spending more time with Hamm on the beach. The actor was seen wearing shorts as he stayed close to his wife and appeared to help care for her during their outing. If confirmed, the pregnancy would mark a major milestone for the couple, particularly because Hamm has previously spoken openly about not being certain that he wanted to become a father. In a 2008 interview, when Hamm was 35 and in a relationship with actress Jennifer Westfeldt, the actor admitted that having children was not necessarily part of the future he had imagined for himself. He explained that although many of his friends were starting families, he was unsure whether parenthood was something he wanted. Hamm also reflected on how a person’s family background could influence their views on having children. At the time, he said he had not firmly decided either way and was still uncertain about whether parenthood would be the right path for him. His perspective appeared to change significantly after meeting Osceola. Jon Hamm and Anna Osceola’s relationship Hamm and Osceola first crossed paths in 2015 while working together on the final season of the popular television series Mad Men. Although they met several years earlier, their relationship did not become romantic immediately. The pair were first linked romantically in 2017 before their relationship became more serious and they were publicly confirmed as a couple in 2020. In 2022, Hamm and Osceola made their red-carpet debut together at an Oscars viewing event. Around the same period, Hamm opened up about how his relationship with Osceola had changed his outlook on marriage and family. The actor previously revealed that being with Osceola helped him discover a different kind of happiness and made him reconsider some of his earlier thoughts about marriage and having children. Hamm and Osceola announced their engagement in February 2023. Just a few months later, they exchanged vows in June at Anderson Canyon in Big Sur, California. The location held special meaning for the couple because it was also where they had first met while filming Mad Men. Now, with reports of their first baby on the way, the couple appear to be preparing for one of the biggest changes in their relationship yet. Their journey from co-stars to partners and eventually husband and wife has already marked several important milestones, and parenthood could soon become their newest chapter.

As Kriti Sanon celebrates her birthday, there is plenty to toast than just another year. Beyond her impressive career as an actor, producer, entrepreneur, and National Award winner, she has quietly earned a reputation as one of the country’s most stylish celebrities. Whether she is commanding the red carpet, drawing attention at international fashion events, or effortlessly nailing a promotional look, every public appearance tends to become a talking point. To mark her birthday, here is a look back at some of her most memorable fashion moments over the years. One of her boldest looks came in the form of a sleek, body-hugging black dress featuring a dramatic thigh-high slit. The structured design and confident styling made it an instant standout. Equally unforgettable was an emerald green satin gown with striking cutouts and elegant draping, a look that quickly captured fans’ attention online. For a softer, more romantic vibe, Kriti wore a lavender couture gown with flowing sleeves and delicate layers, giving off an almost storybook quality. At an award ceremony, she chose a shimmering embellished gown that struck the right balance between glamour and understated elegance. She also proved that simplicity can make just as strong a statement, opting for a beige floral ensemble rich in subtle texture and detail. On another occasion, an off-shoulder black gown showcased her more classic, refined side, relying on clean lines rather than heavy embellishment. A sculpted white couture gown pushed her style further into high-fashion territory, giving the look an architectural, globally-inspired edge. She later brought old Hollywood glamour into the present with a crystal-embellished silver gown that sparkled effortlessly on every red carpet appearance. When it came to traditional wear, Kriti embraced regal elegance in a deep red embellished saree paired with statement jewelry, blending timeless tradition with a modern touch. Representing India on an international stage, she also turned heads at London Fashion Week in a Burberry ensemble complete with a trench coat, boots, and scarf, reflecting polished, global sophistication. From experimental couture to graceful Indian wear, Kriti Sanon continues to explore fashion fearlessly, letting every outfit reveal a different side of her personality. As she celebrates another year, her evolving style journey remains just as compelling as her accomplished career, proving she’s not just an actor to watch, but a true fashion icon in her own right.