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Govinda’s Gaffe Gala: Superstitions That Sent Stardom Packing!

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Govinda

Govinda Blames Superstitions for Epic Career Rollercoaster Ride!

Mumbai, October 16, 2025 – Veteran actor Govinda has opened up about the factors contributing to his professional downturn, citing deep-seated superstitions as a primary influence in a recent interview that has sparked discussions on industry practices.

The 90s icon, known for blockbuster hits like Coolie No. 1 and Hero No. 1, detailed how reliance on astrologers and fortune-tellers disrupted his schedule and decision-making. “My superstitious beliefs led me to miss flights and avoid certain actions on set,” Govinda explained, recounting instances where he skipped shoots in Hyderabad due to astrological warnings. He also mentioned banning items like pens on filming locations, believing them to bring misfortune.

Producer Pahlaj Nihalani, who collaborated with Govinda on several successes, described the actor as “naive” for allowing such influences to override opportunities. “He turned down major projects, including one with Sushmita Sen, based on tantrik advice,” Nihalani shared, highlighting missed chances that could have sustained his momentum. Trade analyst Komal Nahta echoed this sentiment, stating, “Superstition played a key role in his career slump.”

Co-star Himani Shivpuri recalled the logistical challenges, including director Aruna Irani’s efforts to retrieve Govinda from Mumbai for delayed arrivals, which earned him a reputation for tardiness amplified by media coverage. Despite these revelations, Govinda expressed no regrets, positioning himself as a disciple of legends like Dilip Kumar and emphasizing personal growth.

Govinda’s filmography boasts over 50 commercially successful ventures, grossing more than Rs 100 crore collectively in an era predating multiplexes. However, post-2000 releases like Rangeela Raja underperformed, prompting speculation about his relevance. Recent fan campaigns under #GovindaComeback suggest appetite for a resurgence, potentially with longtime collaborator David Dhawan.

Journalist Pooja Samant noted Govinda’s off-screen warmth but cautioned that such vulnerabilities underscore broader industry issues with pseudoscience. As Bollywood evolves with data-driven strategies, Govinda’s candid account serves as a reflective case study on the perils of unchecked beliefs in a high-stakes environment. The interview, aired on a popular YouTube channel, has garnered significant views, reigniting interest in the actor’s storied past.

Pop the popcorn and cue the chi-chi nostalgia—Govinda’s dropping truth bombs hotter than his Coolie No. 1 capers, blaming babas and bad luck for his Bollywood blackout! The 90s dance dynamo, whose hip-thrusts hypnotized hordes, just spilled in a no-holds-barred interview: “Superstitious beliefs” turned him into a flight-fearing phantom, leaving co-stars in comedic chaos. Picture this: Hyderabad shoot? Skipped for starry omens. Pens on set? Banned as bad juju. Even Kader Khan got a “drowning” doom-scroll!

Producer Pahlaj Nihalani, who helmed Govinda’s golden goose like Shola Aur Shabnam, dishes the dirt: “Nasamajh (naive) Govinda let tantriks torch his trajectory,” nixing Sushmita Sen smashes and turning tardiness into tabloid terror. Trade whiz Komal Nahta nods: “Superstition scripted his slump.” Himani Shivpuri, his Gharwali Baharwali buddy, recalls Aruna Irani’s frantic Mumbai fetch-fests, turning delays into diva drama. Govinda owns the “defamed for lateness” label, musing on media maulings that morphed his Hero No. 1 halo into a has-been haze.

From 50+ superhits raking Rs 100cr+ to Rangeela Raja‘s 2019 whimper, Govinda’s arc is a hilarious hindsight horror-comedy. Fans flood #GovindaComeback with Aankhen clips, begging for a David Dhawan encore sans the “poisoned picks.” Journalist Pooja Samant adds flavor: His real side? A gem, but gullibility gated the glory. As he calls himself Dilip Kumar’s “chela,” we’re left grooving: Is 2025 the reboot reel? Ditch the doom-dabbawalas for discipline, Chi Chi—your fans are forever fans! This superstition saga? A riotous reminder: Stars shine sans the stars (astrological, obvs). Dance on, legend—time to tip-toe back to the top!

Sonakshi’s Sassy Shutdown: Pregnancy Rumors Get the Boot with Epic Wit!

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Sonakshi Sinha laughing in black outfit at Diwali bash, Zaheer Iqbal playfully patting her belly in viral video.

Sonakshi Slays Pregnancy Rumors with Sassy Video Quip!

Mumbai, October 16, 2025 – Actress Sonakshi Sinha has once again addressed swirling pregnancy rumors surrounding her marriage to Zaheer Iqbal, delivering a light-hearted rebuttal that has captured widespread attention on social media.

During a high-profile Diwali celebration hosted by producer Ramesh Taurani on Wednesday evening, Sinha appeared in a flowing black ensemble, prompting renewed speculation from onlookers and online commentators. The couple, who tied the knot in an intimate ceremony in June 2024, has faced similar whispers since their honeymoon phase, often fueled by casual observations of Sinha’s attire at public events.

In a candid Instagram Reel posted late Wednesday, Sinha directly confronted the gossip with characteristic wit. “World record holder for longest pregnancy in human history (16 months and counting)!” she declared, laughing into the camera while gesturing toward her midsection. The video, which has amassed over 1.2 million views within hours, features Iqbal playfully interacting with the narrative, adding emojis and a supportive cameo that underscores their easy camaraderie. Sinha concluded the clip with a teasing instruction: “Scroll to the last slide to see our reaction,” revealing a series of expressive selfies that have elicited thousands of amused responses from fans.

This is not the first instance of Sinha engaging with such rumors. Following her wedding, similar claims surfaced during appearances at events like Vikram Phadnis’ fashion show, where her choice of loose-fitting outfits drew commentary. Sinha has previously used social media to counter body-shaming narratives, emphasizing self-acceptance and privacy in her personal life.

The couple’s relationship, marked by low-key romance and family-oriented celebrations, continues to resonate with audiences. Their 2024 nuptials, attended by close industry friends, highlighted a blend of tradition and modernity, with Sufi performances and heartfelt vows going viral. Sources close to the pair indicate no immediate plans for expanding their family, though they remain focused on collaborative projects, including Sinha’s upcoming horror-comedy Kakuda.

As Diwali festivities continue across Mumbai, Sinha’s response has shifted the conversation from speculation to celebration, reinforcing her status as a relatable figure in Bollywood. Industry observers note that such transparency not only humanizes celebrities but also engages younger demographics on platforms like Instagram. With the holiday season underway, fans eagerly await further updates from the duo, whose blend of humor and humility keeps them at the forefront of entertainment discourse.

Hold the rangoli and the rumor reels—Sonakshi Sinha just turned Bollywood’s baby bump brigade into a punchline party! The Heeramandi heart-stealer, who’s been slaying screens and wedding aisles since her June 2024 vows with Zaheer Iqbal, faced fresh Diwali drama at producer Ramesh Taurani’s bash. Draped in a breezy black ensemble that screamed “effortless chic,” Sonakshi’s subtle dupatta drape had eagle-eyed fans yelling “bump alert!” from the rooftops. But our queen? She’s not one to let whispers wilt her vibe.

In a reel that’s exploding faster than Diwali crackers—over a million views in hours—Sonakshi cackles into the camera: “World record holder for longest pregnancy in human history (16 months and counting)!” Zaheer, the ultimate hype-man, pops up with a cheeky belly pat and heart-eyes emoji frenzy, turning their timeline into a rom-com goldmine. “Scroll to the last slide to see our reaction,” she teases, dropping a savage side-eye that has netizens ROFL-ing. This isn’t Sonakshi’s debut dance with the rumor tango; post-wedding glow-ups sparked similar speculation, from airport athleisure to red-carpet radiance. Remember her 2024 troll-takedown on body-shaming? Fire. Now, amid Vikram Phadnis’ fashion gala glow, she’s owning the narrative like a boss babe.

Diving deeper, insiders spill that the couple’s low-key love story—sealed with Sufi nights and family feasts—has fans shipping harder than a Dabangg sequel. Zaheer’s playful tease at the bash? Pure poetry, with him quipping, “Not yet, folks!” as paparazzi frenzy. Sonakshi’s journey from Rajjo’s rebellion to real-life royalty is a feel-good flick we can’t quit. With Kakuda buzz and more magic brewing, is a mini-Sinha-Iqbal on the horizon? For now, it’s all sass and sparkles. As Diwali lights flicker, Sonakshi’s clapback shines brightest—proving rumors are just plot fodder for her powerhouse plot twists. Who’s bingeing this bliss? We are! Lights, camera, laughter—fade to fabulous.

Alia Malik first Pakistani Saraiki woman off-road racer

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Alia Malik

MULTAN: Pakistan’s first Saraiki woman off-road driver, Alia Malik, recently appeared on a popular Saraiki-language podcast, where she shared her inspiring journey from a motorsport enthusiast to a national-level off-road rally champion.

In the exclusive podcast episode, Alia Malik discussed the challenges she faced in breaking gender barriers within a male-dominated sport and highlighted the pride she feels in representing the Saraiki belt on national platforms.

Speaking about her experience, Alia said that her participation in off-road rallies, where she secured second position — was both a personal and cultural milestone. “I wanted to show that Saraiki women are strong, skilled, and fearless. Our region has immense potential, and we only need opportunities to prove ourselves,” she remarked.

During the podcast, she reflected on her early struggles in training, vehicle preparation, and gaining recognition in motorsports. She emphasized the importance of community support and family encouragement, crediting her success to perseverance and faith.

The episode also focused on Alia’s initiative, “Saraiki Women on Wheels,” aimed at empowering young women through driving education, vehicle maintenance skills, and desert navigation training. She revealed plans to expand the project across South Punjab to help women gain mobility and confidence.

Listeners praised Alia Malik’s humility, courage, and commitment to social change, describing her as a new role model for the Saraiki youth. The podcast quickly gained traction on social media, sparking conversations about representation, regional identity, and women’s empowerment.

Hailing from Dera Ismail Khan, Alia’s journey from a small-town enthusiast to a recognized off-road driver reflects courage, determination, and passion for adventure sports — a field long dominated by men. Her entry into professional off-road racing marks not just a personal milestone but also a cultural breakthrough for the Saraiki belt, where women’s participation in motorsports has been almost nonexistent.

Alia Malik’s passion for driving began during her university days, where she often took part in motorbike and jeep trials organized by local adventure clubs. Encouraged by her family and mentors, she underwent technical training in vehicle handling, rally navigation, and terrain control — skills essential for off-road racing.

London sees 80,000 phones stolen in a year

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London

LONDON: More than 80,000 mobile phones were stolen or snatched across London last year, the Metropolitan Police said, revealing that much of the stolen haul was destined for overseas markets.

Investigators say the crimes are no longer limited to opportunistic street thefts but are part of a well-organised, international network. During a series of raids in north London last month, police recovered around 2,000 stolen phones and £200,000 in cash from dealers and middlemen believed to be involved in shipping the devices to markets such as Hong Kong, China and Algeria.

The network came to light after a woman used a phone-location app last December to track her stolen iPhone to a warehouse near Heathrow Airport. Officers subsequently uncovered 1,000 stolen iPhones packed in containers bound for Hong Kong.

Senior Detective Mark Gwynn said the operation was “industrial scale” rather than the work of lone opportunists, adding that stolen phones can fetch up to $5,000 in foreign markets. Police intelligence divides the criminal supply chain into three tiers: street-level thieves (often on e-bikes), middlemen and shop owners who buy and re-sell the phones, and export operators who ship the devices abroad.

Official figures show a worrying rise: 64,000 phones were reported stolen in 2023, rising to 80,000 in 2024, and over 100,000 phone thefts were reported between March 2024 and February 2025. Yet enforcement lags: only 495 people were charged during that period — roughly one prosecution per 200 reported thefts.

Recent enforcement has yielded progress: police say last month’s raids recovered £40,000 in cash and five stolen phones on site, and since December around 4,000 iPhones have been secured and stored at a police facility in southwest London.

Police describe the trade as highly profitable and relatively low risk for perpetrators. On average, a thief reportedly earns about £300 per phone — roughly three times the national minimum wage for a short time investment. The major policing challenge, officers say, is identifying and apprehending offenders: masked thieves on e-bikes carry out lightning-fast snatches and escape into busy streets, making pursuit dangerous for officers and civilians.

Professor Lawrence Sherman of Cambridge University warned of the broader social risk: “When a phone is worth a thousand pounds, carrying it in the street is the equivalent of waving a thousand-pound note in the air.”

FBR halts Afghan Transit Trade from Karachi ports

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FBR

KARACHI: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has temporarily halted Afghan Transit Trade operations from Karachi ports, citing capacity constraints at customs stations in Quetta and Peshawar.

The decision was taken during a key meeting held at the Directorate of Transit Trade Headquarters, Customs House Karachi, chaired by the Director General of Afghan Transit Trade. Directors of Afghan Transit Quetta and Peshawar attended the session via Zoom.

Following the meeting, the FBR issued Customs General Order No. 98/2025, stating that the movement of Afghan Transit Trade consignments has been suspended indefinitely due to severe congestion and lack of storage capacity at the Quetta and Peshawar customs stations, where no additional space is available to accommodate containers.

The order directed that all terminals unload Afghan Transit containers already placed on vehicles, cancel gate passes, and halt all transportation activities related to Afghan Transit Trade until further instructions are issued.

As a result of this directive, terminals at Karachi Port and Port Qasim have suspended the clearance of Afghan Transit consignments.

According to customs sources, long queues of Transit Procedure (TP) containers have formed at the South Asia Pakistan Terminals (SAPT), with hundreds of containers already loaded on trucks and many more stranded en route to Quetta and Peshawar, where drivers are waiting for the border to reopen.

Punjab Govt approves stern measures to restore law and order

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Punjab Govt

LAHORE: The Punjab government has moved to tighten its grip on extremist elements, deciding to recommend a federal ban on a group accused of promoting violence and disrupting public order.

The decision was made during a high-level meeting on security and public safety chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, according to an official statement issued after the session.

The statement said the Punjab government would urge the federal government to ban the extremist group and place its leadership on the Fourth Schedule of the Anti-Terrorism Act.

It was further decided that those involved in the killing of police officers, destruction of public property, or acts of violence will be tried in anti-terrorism courts. The group’s properties and assets will be handed over to the Auqaf Department, while its posters, banners, and advertisements will be completely banned.

The meeting also approved measures to shut down the extremist group’s social media accounts spreading hate and to freeze all its bank accounts. Strict action will be taken for violations of the Loudspeaker Act, the statement added.

In addition, the Home Department Punjab has issued a one-month ultimatum for citizens to surrender illegal weapons, directing them to register their licensed arms at Khidmat Centers within the same period.

Authorities have also ordered inspections of arms dealers’ stocks and imposed a complete ban on the issuance of new weapon licenses. The Punjab government will recommend that the federal government regularize arms factories and manufacturers.

Furthermore, the provincial cabinet has approved stricter penalties for possessing illegal weapons, declaring it a non-bailable offense. Offenders will face up to 14 years in prison and a fine of Rs2 million, according to the statement.

15 killed, 8 injured as truck plunges into ravine in Malakand

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15 killed

MALAKAND: At least 15 people were killed and eight others injured when a truck carrying nomadic families plunged into a ravine on the Swat Expressway in Malakand on Thursday.

According to rescue officials, the truck overturned and fell into the gorge due to overspeeding. The ill-fated vehicle was reportedly transporting nomadic individuals from Bahrain area of Swat.

Rescue teams rushed to the scene and shifted the bodies and injured to a nearby hospital.

Malakand Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Fayaz confirmed the casualties, saying that most of the deceased were children.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the tragic accident.

Nation observes 74th martyrdom anniversary of Liaquat Ali Khan

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Liaquat Ali Khan

KARACHI: The 74th martyrdom anniversary of Pakistan’s first Prime Minister, Shaheed-e-Millat Liaquat Ali Khan, was observed on Thursday with deep respect and reverence.

Born in Karnal, East Punjab, Liaquat Ali Khan received his education from Aligarh Muslim University in India and later from Oxford University in the United Kingdom. He worked alongside Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in the struggle for a separate homeland for the Muslims of the subcontinent.

On this day in 1951, Liaquat Ali Khan was assassinated during a public gathering at Company Bagh in Rawalpindi, a site later renamed Liaquat Bagh in his honor. His martyrdom remains one of the most significant chapters in Pakistan’s history, reflecting his unwavering dedication and service to the nation.

Marking the occasion, Mustafa Kamal, senior central leader of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P), described Liaquat Ali Khan’s assassination as a national tragedy.

In his message, Kamal paid glowing tribute to the country’s first prime minister, calling him a symbol of honesty, integrity, and sacrifice in Pakistan’s political history. He said Liaquat Ali Khan played a pivotal role in the Pakistan Movement and made every possible effort to stabilize the newly independent state.

Kamal noted that the loss of Shaheed-e-Millat inflicted irreparable damage to Pakistan’s political trajectory, adding that the nation still feels the void of his visionary leadership.

He urged the youth to draw inspiration from Liaquat Ali Khan’s life and contributions and to dedicate themselves to establishing a transparent, honest, and stable system in the country.

Pakistan defeat South Africa by 93 runs in Lahore Test

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Pakistan

LAHORE: Pakistan clinched a commanding 93-run victory over South Africa in the first Test at Gaddafi Stadium, taking a 1–0 lead in the two-match series.

Resuming on the fourth day with Ryan Rickelton and Tony de Zorzi at the crease, South Africa’s hopes of a chase were dashed early when de Zorzi fell to Shaheen Shah Afridi without adding to his overnight score.

Spinner Nauman Ali then dismissed Tristan Stubbs and David Bedingham in quick succession, while Sajid Khan removed set batter Ryan Rickelton for 45.

Afridi continued his fine form, accounting for Verreynne and Subrayen, before Sajid Khan wrapped up the innings by taking Muthusamy’s wicket, sealing Pakistan’s victory.

South Africa

Earlier, South Africa were bowled out for 269 in their first innings before lunch on day three, replying to Pakistan’s 378. Pakistan then managed 167 in their second innings, setting the visitors a target of 277 runs.

By the close of the third day, South Africa had reached 51 for 2, with captain Aiden Markram (3) and Wiaan Mulder (0) already dismissed — paving the way for Pakistan’s bowlers to finish the job on day four.

Pakistani Trans woman shortlisted for top UN Human Rights position

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Pakistani Trans

ISLAMABAD: In a historic development, Nayyab Ali, a prominent Pakistani human rights defender and policy expert, has been officially shortlisted by the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) for the position of UN Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights Defenders.

Expressing her gratitude, Nayyab Ali said the recognition underscores the UN’s commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

“This acknowledgment reaffirms that the UN stands firm on universality and dignity for all. If appointed, I will work to strengthen protections for human rights defenders — particularly those from gender-diverse communities — who continue to face violence and exclusion around the world,” she said.

The next phase of the selection process will be overseen by the Special Consultative Group, comprising representatives from Malawi, the Republic of Korea, North Macedonia, Guatemala, and Türkiye, who will recommend candidates to the President of the Human Rights Council for final appointment during the 61st Session.

Nayyab currently serves as the Executive Director of Transgender Rights Consultants Pakistan and is a Global Human Rights Fellow at Harvard University’s Carr Center.

 She was instrumental in drafting the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2018, and has received several international accolades, including the Franco-German Prize for Human Rights and the Rule of Law (2020).

She noted that her shortlisting is being celebrated as a historic milestone for Pakistan and a significant step toward transgender representation and inclusion within the United Nations system.

This marks the first time in UN history that a transgender woman has been shortlisted for such a high-level position under the UN Special Procedures system — a momentous achievement for global diversity and inclusion in governance.