BREAKING NEWS
Advertise with us >

Three short films on Gaza selected for Oscar nominations

Three short films

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced the nominations for the 98th Academy Awards, including three short films centered on the Gaza conflict—two from Israel and one from Tunisia.

The Tunisian film, The Voice of Hind Rajab, has been nominated in the Best International Feature Film category. Directed by Kawsar Ben Haniya, the documentary-drama tells the story of five-year-old Palestinian girl Hind Rajab, who was reportedly killed by Israeli forces in Gaza last year.

 The film also dramatizes the efforts of the Palestinian Red Crescent, incorporating authentic audio of Hind calling for help amid the deaths of her family members.

The film has garnered widespread support from Palestine-supportive filmmakers, with British Jewish director Jonathan Glazer as one of its co-producers.

In Israel, the short film “Butcher’s Stain” was nominated for Best Live Action Short Film. Created by Meir Levinson-Blount of Tel Aviv University’s film school, the story follows Arab butcher Samir, accused of removing posters of Israeli hostages taken by Hamas during the October 7, 2023 attack and brought to Gaza.

The film explores Samir’s struggle to prove his innocence amid abuse, coercion, and a lengthy legal battle, and previously gained recognition at the Student Academy Awards.

The second Israeli short nominated, Children No More: Were and Are Gone, directed by Hila Medalia, is nominated for Best Documentary Short Film.

The film documents a silent protest in Tel Aviv beginning in March 2025, where demonstrators gathered weekly holding photos of children killed in Gaza, a movement that eventually grew into a symbolic nationwide campaign.

Several other Israeli films submitted for Oscar consideration were reportedly rejected, as the Academy found them largely propagandistic attempts to portray Israel in a humanitarian light.

These nominations mark a significant recognition of films addressing the Gaza conflict, bringing international attention to stories of civilian experiences and political struggles in the region.

Psychologist criticizes Fiza Ali’s over daughter’s social media exposure

Psychologist criticizes

LAHORE: Pakistani clinical psychologist and social media influencer Maheen Anwari has strongly criticized actress and host Fiza Ali for frequently featuring her young daughter on social media, warning that such exposure can have long-term psychological consequences for children.

In a video shared on her social media account, Maheen Anwari expressed concern over what she described as a growing trend among parents — particularly mothers — who showcase their minor children online to gain views and public attention.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mahin Anwari (@iammaheenanwari)

Fiza Ali often shares photos and videos of her 10-year-old daughter Faraal Fawad on Instagram alongside her daily activities.

Commenting on one such video, the psychologist said she felt “deeply disappointed” by the practice, stressing that turning children into social media content could negatively impact their mental well-being in the future.

To highlight the issue, Maheen Anwari cited an example of a 15-year-old girl she had counseled, who reportedly suffered emotional distress due to her mother’s online behavior. She urged parents to protect their children’s innocence and avoid using them for digital content.

Addressing Fiza Ali directly, the psychologist advised her to reflect on the potential psychological effects such exposure may have on children as they grow older.

Following the video’s circulation, the issue sparked widespread debate on social media. While many users praised the psychologist for raising awareness about child protection, others came forward in support of Fiza Ali, defending her parenting choices.

Taylor Swift texts leak expose strains in longtime friendship

Taylor Swift

LOS ANGELES:  Friendship tensions between pop superstar Taylor Swift and longtime friend Blake Lively have come to light following the public release of their private text messages.

The exchanges emerged as part of legal documents related to Blake Lively’s ongoing case against Justin Baldoni, revealing that the friendship had been strained before the public was aware.

In one message, Lively wrote, “I don’t have a particular reason to ask, but for some reason I feel like I should—are you okay?” She added, “I feel like I’ve been a bad friend because I’ve been sad for months and only focused on myself, but during this time, you not only supported me wholeheartedly but also forgave me for being in that state.”

Swift responded approximately an hour later, expressing her own struggles. “I feel exhausted in every aspect of my life, and for the past few months, I’ve sensed that your way of talking to me has changed,” she wrote.

She continued, “I miss my cheerful, slightly sarcastic, straightforward friend who used to speak to me, and I know you face criticism from all sides, which is why you try to explain everything excessively. That’s why a little distance came between us, and you don’t need to apologize—just come back, please.”

In another message, Lively acknowledged Swift’s concerns, admitting that she sometimes exaggerated simple matters out of fear of being misunderstood. She reflected, “Good people, my lifelong friends, quietly drifted away, which left me feeling very scared.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Taylor Swift (@taylorswift)

The texts, sent just days before the conclusion of Swift’s Eras Tour, highlight the misunderstandings and pressures that ultimately contributed to the strain in their friendship.

Aamir Khan praises Sunil Grover’s hilarious imitation in laughter show

Aamir Khan

MUMBAI: Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan, famously known as “Mr. Perfectionist,” has reacted warmly to comedian Sunil Grover’s imitation of him on the popular comedy show ‘The Great Indian Laughter Show’, which has gone viral across social media.

In the show’s latest fourth-season episode on Netflix, actors Kartik Aaryan and Ananya Panday appeared to promote their film ‘Tu Meri, Main Tera’. However, the spotlight quickly shifted to Sunil Grover, whose performance stole the audience’s attention.

Grover’s impeccable mimicry of Aamir Khan drew widespread praise online. He has previously parodied renowned Bollywood figures, including Gulzar, Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, Ajay Devgn, Akshay Kumar, and Kapil Dev.

When asked about Grover’s impression during a recent Golf Foundation event, the 60-year-old Aamir Khan laughed and praised Grover in a lighthearted and affectionate manner, signaling his approval of the comedian’s humorous tribute.

Madiha Imam expresses desire to cast Vidya Balan in Pakistani drama

Madiha Imam

LAHORE: Renowned Pakistani actress Madiha Imam has expressed her wish to bring Indian actress Vidya Balan to Pakistan for a drama project, stating that she believes Balan would make a remarkable addition to the country’s television industry.

Madiha Imam, who began her career as a VJ before quickly rising to prominence with lead roles in dramas, is also known for her hosting skills. She is married to Indian filmmaker Moji Basar.

In a recent interview, when asked which Indian actress she would like to cast in a Pakistani drama, Madiha said, “I would love to make a drama with Vidya Balan. I think she would excel on television as well.” She added that Balan’s participation could be a significant boost for Pakistani TV productions.

On the topic of working in India, Madiha noted, “I believe actors should have the opportunity to work internationally, but given the sensitivities of cross-border projects, careful consideration and good judgment are necessary.”

King Khan’s on-stage gesture with fan’s mobile goes viral

King Khan’

Riyadh: A moment involving Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan during an awards ceremony in Riyadh has captured widespread attention on social media after he briefly took a fan’s mobile phone on stage.

According to details, several fans attempted to take selfies with the actor while he was on stage. During the interaction, Shah Rukh Khan calmly took a fan’s phone, a gesture that was caught on camera and quickly went viral across digital platforms.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by viralego (@viralego)

In the circulating video clip, a fan can be seen approaching the actor for a selfie. Smiling, Shah Rukh Khan gently takes the phone from the fan’s hand and gestures toward the official cameraman, indicating that photography arrangements were already in place. Moments later, he returns the phone to the fan.

Shortly afterward, another fan steps forward with the same intention, and the actor repeats the gesture, again pointing toward the professional camera crew.

The brief incident sparked mixed reactions online. Some social media users defended the actor, saying he acted in line with event protocol and security requirements while maintaining a friendly demeanor. Others, however, interpreted the moment as unnecessary strictness.

The episode once again highlighted Shah Rukh Khan’s immense popularity, proving that even a minor on-stage moment involving the superstar can quickly become a topic of widespread discussion on social media.

Sajal Aly’s birthday photos spark mixed reactions on social media

Sajal Aly’s birthday

LAHORE: Actress Saboor Aly came under social media scrutiny after sharing heartfelt pictures of her sister and popular actress Sajal Aly on her birthday.

The photos captured loving and joyful moments between the sisters, highlighting their close bond. Alongside the images, Saboor Aly posted a warm message expressing her best wishes for Sajal, reflecting their affection and strong relationship.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Saboor Ali Ansari (@sabooraly)

The birthday snapshots quickly went viral, drawing widespread attention. While fans and celebrities praised the sisters and extended birthday greetings to Sajal Aly, some social media users criticized aspects of their attire and style, particularly targeting Saboor Aly.

The mixed reactions reignited debates on personal choice, fashion, and freedom of expression on social media platforms.

Akshay Kumar and Twinkle Khanna involved in minor car accident in Mumbai

Akshay Kumar

MUMBAI : Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar and his wife Twinkle Khanna were involved in an unusual accident while returning home from the airport . The couple had arrived in Mumbai from abroad.

According to Indian media reports, a high-speed Mercedes collided with an auto-rickshaw, which then struck Akshay Kumar’s security convoy before hitting the actor couple’s car. Eyewitnesses described a scene of panic and chaos, though fortunately, no serious injuries were reported.

Both Akshay and Twinkle, along with their staff, quickly assisted those trapped under the auto-rickshaw, ensuring everyone’s safety. The incident occurred near Mumbai’s Juhu area, and all involved walked away unharmed.

The couple had traveled abroad to celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary, returning to India when the accident occurred.

Fazila Qazi gives unexpected answer about Fahad Mustafa

Fazila Qazi

KARACHI: Senior Pakistani actress Fazila Qazi recently shared her candid views about the entertainment industry in an interview with actor Ahmed Ali Butt.

During the conversation, she was asked which celebrities she would serve food to if they were her guests.

Fazila Qazi’s reaction to Fahad Mustafa’s name left Ahmed Ali Butt surprised, as she questioned, “Who is this?” Regarding Humayun Saeed, she gave a nonchalant response, saying she would just serve tea, adding, “Serving tea itself is a big deal.”

Speaking more broadly about the industry, Fazila Qazi described it as “uncertain earnings” and revealed that she never intended for her children to join showbiz.

 She explained that she and her late husband, Qaiser, managed their household through production work rather than acting income.

Senior Pakistani actresses praise Maryam Aurangzeb’s transformation

Senior Pakistani actresses

KARACHI: Senior Pakistani actresses Bushra Ansari and Zara Noor Abbas have lauded Punjab’s senior minister Maryam Aurangzeb for her recent transformation, which has garnered widespread attention on social media.

The spotlight came after images and videos of Maryam Aurangzeb attending the wedding celebrations of Maryam Nawaz’s son, Junaid Safdar, went viral. Her simple yet elegant style and confident demeanor received positive reactions across social media platforms.

Bushra Ansari commented online, saying, “I know Maryam Aurangzeb closely. Her journey of weight loss is a testament to her commitment and consistency. Maryam, you look absolutely beautiful, Masha Allah.”

Meanwhile, Zara Noor Abbas shared side-by-side images of Maryam Aurangzeb, writing, “When a woman starts taking care of herself, any goal can be achieved.” She added that confidence and simplicity enhance any personality, and Maryam Aurangzeb is a prime example of this transformation.

Social media users echoed these sentiments, praising Maryam Aurangzeb’s new look as not only inspiring but also sending a positive message that women can thrive in politics with grace and confidence.

Maryam Aurangzeb remains one of Pakistan’s prominent political figures, frequently making headlines for both her statements and her distinct personal style.