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Shamoon Abbasi opposes reported drama on drug dealer ‘Pinky’

Shamoon Abbasi

KARACHI:Actor and filmmaker Shamoon Abbasi has opposed the proposed drama series reportedly based on the life of alleged Karachi drug dealer Anmol, also known as Pinky, saying such content is not suitable for television screens.

In a Facebook post, Abbasi questioned why such a story needs to be dramatized, arguing that several positive narratives of women’s struggle, success, and empowerment could instead be highlighted on TV.

He also responded to reports that actress Saba Qamar may play the lead role, saying she is a highly talented performer capable of portraying characters in a way that can strongly impact audiences. He praised her previous work in Case No. 9, calling it a powerful drama that raised awareness on harassment issues.

However, Abbasi questioned why an actress known for positive and impactful roles should be used to glamorize a negative character. He added that if such a story must be told, it should be made as a film rather than a television drama, as cinema is a matter of choice for viewers, while TV content reaches households and younger audiences.

He described the project as an attempt to capitalize on a viral incident and said caution is necessary when portraying criminal figures in mainstream entertainment.

According to reports, a production house is working on a biographical drama based on the alleged drug queen, with the script reportedly being written by the writer of Case No. 9.

Wasim Akram and others break silence on criticism over Hajj journey

Wasim Akram

ISLAMABAD:  Former cricketer Wasim Akram, ex-captain Misbah-ul-Haq, host Fakhr-e-Alam, former cricketer Saeed Anwar and several other prominent Pakistani personalities performed Hajj together this year, but later faced criticism on social media over videos and images shared during the pilgrimage.

A video of Wasim Akram performing Rami al-Jamarat went viral in which he humorously mimicked his signature bowling action while symbolically throwing pebbles. In another clip, he was seen carrying bananas for Misbah-ul-Haq, drawing mixed reactions online.

@timesofkarachi

Why didn’t Wasim Akram, Fakhar-e-Alam, and Misbah-ul-Haq shave their heads as part of the Hajj ritual? #TOKReports #Hajj #WasimAkram #FakhareAlam #MisbahulHaq

♬ original sound – Times of Karachi

Fakhr-e-Alam also shared multiple moments from the pilgrimage, showing other public figures including actor Bilal Abbas Khan and comedian Tabish Hashmi, which some social media users described as “more like a picnic than Hajj.”

Responding to criticism, Wasim Akram, Fakhr-e-Alam and Misbah-ul-Haq said Hajj is a spiritual obligation, but it does not mean a person remains engaged in ritual worship 24 hours a day, adding that moments of travel, interaction and companionship are also part of the experience.

They also addressed questions about not shaving their heads after Hajj, explaining that they had consulted religious scholars beforehand and were given two permissible options: shaving the head completely (halq) or trimming the hair (qasr), and they opted for the latter.

The personalities said their intention in sharing videos was to guide and inspire younger generations about Hajj and to encourage them to understand the pilgrimage process.

Speaking from Madinah, Fakhr-e-Alam said the journey inspired many people to ask what motivated them to perform Hajj, while Wasim Akram said the group did not plan the pilgrimage in advance but decided to join when the opportunity came and others were going.

Ranveer Singh faces fresh setback amid ‘Don 3’ controversy

Ranveer Singh

MUMBAI: Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh has encountered a new setback amid the ongoing controversy surrounding his upcoming film Don 3, after a major industry body reportedly issued a non-cooperation directive against him.

The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has instructed its members not to cooperate with the actor, bringing renewed attention to the dispute.

In response, Ranveer Singh’s spokesperson said the actor holds deep respect for the film fraternity and everyone associated with the Don franchise, but has chosen not to comment publicly on the matter.

The spokesperson added that Ranveer believes professional disputes and sensitive issues should be resolved privately with dignity, seriousness, and mutual respect rather than through media discussion.

The statement further said that several speculations and reports have circulated in recent days, but the actor has deliberately remained silent to avoid fuelling further controversy, focusing instead on his current and upcoming projects.

FWICE, however, said it had issued the non-cooperation directive on Monday, claiming that Ranveer Singh had been approached multiple times for clarification and dialogue regarding the issue. The body said three reminder letters were also sent, but no response was received from the actor nor did he appear before its representatives.

The development has further intensified the controversy surrounding Don 3, with industry discussions continuing over the actor’s silence and the federation’s stance.

Who is Momina Iqbal’s husband? Details emerge

Who is Momina Iqbal’

LAHOREL: Details have surfaced about the husband of Pakistani actor Momina Iqbal, who recently tied the knot in a series of wedding ceremonies held in Lahore.

Momina Iqbal, known for her performances in popular television dramas, has completed her mayun, mehndi, nikah and other wedding events, with photos and videos widely circulating on social media.

According to media reports, her husband Hamza Habib is a Lahore-based businessman described as financially stable and successful, though he has largely remained away from the media spotlight.

Recent attention on the couple increased after Hamza Habib appeared in support of his wife following allegations of harassment and threats involving a political figure.

He stated that the engagement was arranged with mutual consent between both families, who reportedly share long-standing friendly relations. The couple is said to have solemnised their nikah in a private ceremony in late May 2026.

Earlier, Momina Iqbal had shared on social media that she and her family were allegedly threatened by a politically influential individual, prompting an investigation by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency.

Actress Raveena Tandon’s mother’s home targeted in theft

Actress Raveena Tandon

MUMBAI: Jewellery and luxury watches worth around ₹25 lakh have been stolen from the residence of Bollywood actress Raveena Tandon’s mother in the Juhu area of Mumbai, according to Indian media reports.

Police confirmed that the incident came to light when family members discovered that valuables were missing from a locked safe. The stolen items reportedly included expensive jewellery and watches.

Authorities have arrested a woman in connection with the case, who is said to be known to the family. The accused has been identified as 47-year-old Rashi Chhabria.

Police said the woman had been visiting the household since 2020 and had gained the family’s trust by assisting and caring for the actress’s mother.

Officials added that several stolen watches have been recovered from the suspect’s possession, while investigations are ongoing to trace the remaining jewellery.

New Drama Buzz: Saba Qamar may play Anmol “Pinkie” character

New Drama Buzz

KARACHI: Reports suggesting that a television drama based on alleged drug dealer Anmol, known as “Pinkie,” is in development have triggered widespread debate on social media.

According to media reports, a private production house is working on a drama inspired by the controversial figure, with acclaimed actress Saba Qamar reportedly set to play the lead role.

A circulating image reportedly shows Saba Qamar alongside producers Asad Qureshi and Abdullah Kadwani, further fueling speculation that the project may soon move into production. Some claims also suggest that journalist Shahzeb Khanzada is associated with the script, although no official confirmation has been made.

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However, no formal announcement has been issued by the production team or channel regarding the project, leaving the information unverified at this stage.

The rumored drama has drawn criticism from a section of social media users, who argue that producing content on an ongoing legal case is inappropriate and could be seen as controversial.

Critics also questioned why more focus is not being placed on dramatizing the lives of prominent historical and literary figures such as Fatima Jinnah, Bano Qudsia, and Dr. Arfa Syeda, instead of individuals involved in alleged criminal cases.

On the other hand, fans of Saba Qamar have expressed excitement over the possibility, stating that the actress is known for her powerful performances and could portray the role effectively if the project goes ahead.

They believe the drama could potentially achieve popularity similar to previous successful television productions, depending on its execution and storytelling approach.

Dua Lipa marries actor Callum Turner in private London ceremony

Dua Lipa marries

LONDON: International pop star Dua Lipa has officially tied the knot with actor Callum Turner in an intimate and private wedding ceremony held in London, marking the culmination of their long-standing relationship.

According to British media reports, the couple got married on May 31 at the historic Old Marylebone Town Hall in London, in a low-key ceremony attended only by close family members and a small circle of friends. The event was kept highly private, followed by a small dinner gathering for select guests.

Dua Lipa appeared in a classic white bridal outfit, accessorized with gloves and a stylish oversized hat, while Callum Turner wore a navy blue suit with a tie, presenting an elegant and formal look for the occasion. The couple was later seen holding hands and enjoying their newlywed moment.

Eyewitnesses reported that Turner became emotional upon seeing his bride walk in, visibly overwhelmed during the ceremony. Guests said the actor appeared tearful and struggled to contain his emotions, while family members also became emotional during the moment.

The couple’s relationship reportedly began in January 2024 when they were first spotted together at an event in London. They later confirmed their relationship publicly on social media in July 2024, drawing widespread attention from fans worldwide.

After approximately a year of engagement rumors, their wedding has now been confirmed, bringing joy to fans across the globe. Reports also suggest that the couple plans to celebrate their marriage in two stages, with a larger second celebration expected to take place in Sicily, Italy.

In a 2025 interview, Dua Lipa had expressed that sharing a lifelong journey with a partner and growing old together as best friends was deeply meaningful to her.

Momina Iqbal’s mehndi celebrations go viral on social media

Momina Iqbal

KARACHI: Pakistani actress Momina Iqbal has captured widespread attention on social media as pictures and videos from her wedding festivities, particularly her mehndi ceremony, continue to go viral among fans.

The actress shared glimpses of her mehndi celebrations on social media, where she appeared in a traditional and elegant bridal look.

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For the occasion, Momina Iqbal wore a golden katan silk lehenga adorned with delicate tone-on-tone embroidery, which was widely praised by fans.

Her husband, Hamza Habib, was seen wearing a black sherwani with golden embellishments. The couple also posed together in matching traditional shawls featuring colorful embroidery, adding to the visual charm of the event.

Momina Iqbal also shared a heartfelt message for her husband on social media, writing “My Hamza” in a brief but affectionate post, which quickly attracted congratulatory messages from fans and fellow celebrities.

For the mehndi event, she chose a rust-colored lehenga choli enhanced with gold zardozi and tila work, paired with a purple dupatta that further elevated her bridal look. Traditional jewelry, henna-adorned hands, and gold bangles completed her appearance, giving her a classic Pakistani bridal aesthetic.

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Despite recent controversy in the lead-up to her wedding, the actress has now begun her wedding celebrations in a joyful atmosphere. Fans have been actively congratulating the newlywed couple, while social media users continue to praise Momina Iqbal’s bridal style, with her photos and videos receiving thousands of likes and shares.

Nadia Khan calls online sacrifice experience a “Stylish Qurbani”

Nadia Khan

KARACHI: Actress and television host Nadia Khan has described her experience of performing online Qurbani this year as a “stylish sacrifice,” saying she received neatly packed portions of meat instead of traditional arrangements.

Speaking on a private television morning show, Nadia Khan said that due to restrictions in her residential society, where animal slaughter is not permitted, she opted for an online sacrifice service.

“I received packages, but they weren’t pink-themed packages they were meat packages,” she said humorously, adding that she previously lived in a society where designated tents were set up for Qurbani.

She explained that the service provider informed her in advance that hides and certain portions such as head and offal would not be delivered, but approximately 15 kilograms of neatly packaged meat would be sent directly to her home.

Nadia Khan said the arrangement made the entire process convenient, noting that she only had to receive the packages rather than manage the traditional sacrifice process.

“This year my Qurbani was truly stylish because I just had to receive the parcels,” she added, describing the experience as smooth and well-organized.

Faisal Qureshi makes surprising remarks about Saba Qamar

Faisal Qureshi

KARACHI: Senior actor Faisal Qureshi has made an interesting revelation about fellow actress Saba Qamar, praising her talent while highlighting her extreme dedication to her roles.

Speaking during a private television program, Faisal Qureshi discussed various actors in the industry and specifically commended Saba Qamar for her exceptional acting skills.

He said that Saba Qamar is one of the finest performers in the industry but added that she becomes so deeply immersed in her characters during shooting that it sometimes makes co-actors uneasy.

According to Faisal Qureshi, her intense approach to acting is so powerful that it creates a highly realistic atmosphere on set. He further remarked that due to this level of emotional involvement in her roles, Saba Qamar has reportedly experienced minor heart-related health issues in the past.

The actor added that he often advised her to remain calm during shoots and noted that she is highly professional, frequently arriving on set ahead of schedule.

Saba Qamar is widely regarded as one of Pakistan’s most versatile actresses, known for her powerful performances across television and film.