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Newsdesk

China offers constructive role to calm Pakistan-Afghanistan dispute

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China offers

ISLAMABAD: China, Russia, Qatar, and Iran have offered to mediate amid rising tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

A spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed concern over the situation and stated that China is ready to play a constructive role, using diplomatic channels to mediate the dispute.

Both Qatar and Iran have similarly offered to facilitate dialogue between the two neighbors. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi urged that differences be resolved through talks and pledged Iran’s full support in enabling the dialogue.

Russia’s Foreign Minister also stated that if requested, Moscow is willing to consider mediating between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Meanwhile, the United Nations Secretary-General expressed concern over the recent tensions and urged both countries to fulfil their obligations under international law.

Pakistani Activist Mahnoor Omer named TIME’s Woman of the Year

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Pakistani Activist

KARACHI: Pakistani women’s rights advocate Mahnoor Omer has been named among TIME magazine’s Women of the Year 2026, recognised for her legal and social activism challenging gender inequality, particularly the taxation of menstrual products in Pakistan.

Omer joins a global cohort of 16 other influential figures, including Oscar-nominated filmmaker Chloe Zhao and Olympic gold medalist Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone.

Her activism began in her teens. Frustrated at age 14 by an NGO’s approach to educating girls about sexual violence, she founded the Noor Foundation, conducting workshops in rural villages addressing issues from climate change to menstruation, according to her TIME profile.

A conversation with a domestic worker two years later exposed a harsh reality: many women could not afford basic menstrual hygiene products.

In Pakistan, taxes on pads and tampons can add up to 40% of the retail price, limiting access. UNICEF estimates only 12% of women in the country use commercially produced sanitary products, while alternatives like cloth carry serious health risks and often prevent girls from attending school.

Combining activism with legal expertise, the 25-year-old filed a court challenge against the so-called “period tax” in September 2025. The case, first heard at the end of 2025, has sparked national debate and highlighted the urgent need for menstrual health policy reform.

Currently pursuing a master’s degree in gender, peace, and security at the London School of Economics, Omer described the legal case as the start of a long journey. “I’m not free until every woman is free,” she said, reaffirming her dedication to women and gender minorities across Pakistan.

Reflecting on the TIME recognition, Omer shared her gratitude on social media: “I hope this reflects the limitless potential of Pakistani women. While there is still a long journey ahead, moments like this remind us how far we have come and how much further we can go.”

Islamic scholar criticizes altered spelling of Urwa Hocane’s name

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Islamic scholar

KARACHI: A video of a prominent Mufti commenting on the spelling of actress Urwa Hocane’s name has gone viral on social media.

The scholar was featured on a private TV channel’s Ramadan transmission discussing the Islamic perspective on deliberately altering names.

During the program, the host highlighted a growing trend where celebrities modify the spelling of their names for stylistic or modern appeal. In Urwa’s case, her original surname “Hussain” is now spelled and pronounced as “Hocane.”

The Mufti responded that it is not permissible to distort someone’s name. “‘Hocane’ is not an Arabic name, and using such a version is not correct,” he said. He cited a historical example, noting that Ali ibn Abi Talib once observed a person mispronouncing someone’s name and remarked that doing so is an injustice, as correctly pronouncing a person’s name is their right, and it is given by their parents.

He further explained that care should be taken even when choosing Islamic names. Some avoid the name “Muhammad” due to its respect and responsibilities, and likewise, deliberately altering a name is considered inappropriate.

Hema Malini denies family feud, honors late Dharmendra

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Hema Malini denies

LONDON: Bollywood actress Hema Malini has dismissed rumours of family discord, emphasizing that there is no animosity within the family and that everyone was very close to her late husband, legendary actor Dharmendra.

The veteran actor was recently honored posthumously at the 79th BAFTA Awards in London. His wife, Hema Malini, accepted the tribute on his behalf. Speaking at the ceremony, she said, “It was a beautiful moment, and he truly deserved it. This is not just an honor for us but for the entire country. No Indian artist has received this recognition this year.”

Hema Malini added that Dharmendra’s fans spanned the globe and that he left an impact not only as an actor but also as a human being.

Addressing questions about alleged family tensions, she said: “There is nothing negative. Papa is there, and everyone will do anything for him. Whether it’s Esha, Ahana, Sunny, or Bobby, they all loved Dharm Ji very much. They liked each other a lot. There is absolutely no hatred in the family. Dharm Ji was a source of love for everyone.”

The legendary actor passed away in November of last year, leaving a lasting legacy in Indian cinema.

Faryal Gohar calls marriage to Jamal Shah a “wrong decision”

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Faryal Gohar

KARACHI:  Veteran Pakistani actress Faryal Gohar has made candid remarks about her past marriage, with a video of her comments going viral on social media.

The former celebrity couple — Faryal Gohar and her ex-husband, renowned actor Jamal Shah — recently appeared together on a private TV channel’s Ramadan transmission. During the interview, both addressed sensitive aspects of their past with seriousness and mutual respect.

At one point, Jamal Shah admitted that he tends to break his belongings in moments of anger. When the host asked whether he had ever broken Faryal Gohar’s possessions, she responded spontaneously, saying, “I never really had anything of my own.”

Later, when questioned about past life decisions, Faryal Gohar looked towards Jamal Shah and stated that marrying him had been a wrong decision in her life. The remark quickly gained traction online, with short clips from the programme circulating widely and drawing strong reactions from viewers.

The host has also faced criticism for inviting the former couple to appear together on the show.

It is worth noting that Faryal Gohar and Jamal Shah were once considered one of Pakistan’s most admired showbiz couples before parting ways in 1992.

Shahid Afridi sees Shadab as future leader of Pakistan team

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Shahid Afridi sees

KARACHI:  Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has said that Shadab Khan is likely to become captain if head coach Mike Hesson continues in his role.

Speaking on a private TV programme, Afridi noted that Shadab and Hesson have worked together for a considerable period at Islamabad United. “If the same coach remains, Shadab will be the captain,” Afridi remarked.

He added that Shadab is not a bad choice for leadership, especially given the limited captaincy options currently available. “Shadab Khan is the backbone of the Pakistan team. You can appoint him as captain, but he will have to deliver strong performances to silence critics,” Afridi said.

Meanwhile, former cricketer Ahmed Shehzad strongly criticised the team’s selection decisions. He claimed that spinner Sufiyan Muqeem has been sidelined to make room for Shadab in the playing XI.

Shehzad further alleged that even highly ranked spinner Abrar Ahmed was dropped to accommodate Shadab, arguing that there is a vast difference in performance levels between the players.

He concluded by blaming the coaching management for the team’s struggles, stating that internal selection dynamics are negatively impacting Pakistan’s performance.

T20 World Cup: Pakistan face net run rate test against Sri Lanka

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T20 World Cup

Colombo: Following New Zealand’s defeat to England in a thrilling Super 8 encounter of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, Pakistan national cricket team have kept their semi-final hopes alive — but a daunting challenge now awaits the Green Shirts.

England’s dramatic victory over the New Zealand cricket team has opened the door for Pakistan to qualify for the last four. However, Pakistan must overcome significant hurdles in their final Super 8 fixture.

Pakistan will play their decisive match in Kandy on Saturday, effectively a knockout contest to stay in the tournament. The equation is clear yet demanding: Pakistan must not only secure victory but also improve their net run rate substantially.

To qualify for the semi-finals, Pakistan need to defeat the Sri Lanka national cricket team by at least 65 runs if batting first. In case of a run chase, Pakistan must reach the target within 13 overs to surpass New Zealand on net run rate.

Meanwhile, tournament hosts Sri Lanka have suffered a major setback ahead of the crucial clash. Star batter Kusal Mendis has been ruled out of the match against Pakistan due to a hamstring injury and is expected to remain sidelined for four weeks.

With qualification hanging in the balance, all eyes will now be on Kandy as Pakistan aim to keep their title dreams alive.

England’s four-wicket win puts Pakistan’s fate in crucial decider

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England’s four-wicket

COLOMBO: England cricket team defeated New Zealand cricket team by four wickets in a gripping Super 8 clash of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, keeping Pakistan’s hopes of reaching the semi-finals alive.

After winning the toss, New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner opted to bat first. The Black Caps posted a competitive total of 159 for 7 in their allotted 20 overs. Glenn Phillips top-scored with 39 runs, while Tim Seifert contributed 35 and Finn Allen added 29.

England’s bowling attack shared the spoils, with Will Jacks, Rehan Ahmed and Adil Rashid claiming two wickets each to restrict New Zealand below the 160-mark.

In reply, England chased down the target in the final over, losing four wickets in the process. The victory propelled England to the top of the group standings with six points.

Following New Zealand’s defeat, Pakistan national cricket team remain in contention for a semi-final berth.

The fate of the second semi-final spot between Pakistan and New Zealand will now be decided in Pakistan’s crucial clash against Sri Lanka national cricket team on Friday.

Pakistan must secure a comprehensive win over Sri Lanka to boost their net run rate; otherwise, New Zealand — currently on three points — could advance to the semi-finals on superior net run rate.

Actor Muneeb Butt shares joy over blessings of daughters

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Actor Muneeb Butt

KARACHI: Renowned Muneeb Butt, a prominent figure in Pakistan’s drama industry, recently shared heartfelt thoughts about the joy and blessings his daughters bring to his life.

Speaking on a television program, Muneeb Butt revealed that every time a daughter was born in his family, it brought increased happiness and prosperity to their home.

 The actor and his wife Aiman Khan, considered one of showbiz’s most beloved couples, are now proud parents of three daughters.

The couple has always prioritized family alongside their careers, supporting each other in both professional and personal spheres.

Muneeb Butt expressed gratitude for the recent arrival of their third daughter, noting that the three girls have roughly two-and-a-half-year gaps between their ages.

He explained that while many showbiz couples intentionally plan longer intervals between children for financial or personal reasons, his family did not follow a strict plan; everything unfolded naturally.

Muneeb Butt further shared that he had a premonition that his third child would also be a girl. Smiling, he said that whenever a daughter arrived, it brought more joy and blessings into their lives.

Confident in this belief, he had even told his wife in advance that their newest addition would be a girl, continuing the flow of happiness and divine favor in their home.

Faisal Qureshi responds gracefully to Nauman Ijaz’s light-hearted remark

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Faisal Qureshi responds

In the sparkling world of showbiz, light-hearted jabs are common, but seasoned actors often respond with grace.

Recently, during a Ramadan transmission on a private TV channel, veteran actor and host Faisal Qureshi addressed a remark made by fellow actor Nauman Ijaz.

In a previous interview, Nauman Ijaz had joked that when a makeup artist repeatedly approached him, he told them, “I am not Humayun Saeed or Faisal Qureshi who needs so much makeup.” He explained that he focuses primarily on his character roles rather than relying heavily on makeup, often just wiping his face with a wet towel.

Faisal Qureshi responded with warmth and humor, saying that if Nauman had made such a comment, “it’s okay, I don’t think he intended to belittle us.” He added with a smile that Nauman Ijaz is naturally handsome and hardly needs makeup.

Qureshi also suggested that Nauman may have been highlighting the difference in roles, noting that he primarily plays character-driven parts, while Faisal and others usually portray leading hero roles.

He further observed that incomplete statements can often spark unnecessary controversies, and social media tends to exaggerate such exchanges.

The actor’s calm and gracious response underscores professionalism and mutual respect in Pakistan’s entertainment industry.