Currently, the film titled as Jugalbandi is in scripting stages reports the Hindustan Times. “I am working on the script. It’s a drama film with music in the background. There will be lot of music, different ragas and jazz in it. It will be musical jugalbandi between the East and the West,” said Sharma.

Jugalbandi is a performance in Indian classical music that features a duet of two solo musicians. He also explained that the film is about a relationship between two men. “It will be a two-hero film; and there will be a love story in it,” said Sharma. “It’s my wish to cast Amitabh Bachchan and Farhan Akhtar for the film. I feel they both have a great sense of music. Once I am done with the scripting process, I would definitely go and approach them. It’s a dream cast,” he said.

Sharma has grown up in a music environment which was one of the prime reasons he was inspired to make a musical film. “I come from the family of music, legendary singer Mukesh was my grandfather. I always wanted to do a film on music. I was working on this film along with Luv Shuv Tey Chicken Khurana,” he shared.

Sharma hopes to finish the scripting process in a month’s time and is likely to begin work this year itself. If all goes well, this will be his second film as a director. His debut film last year was with director Anurag Kashyap, starring Kunal Kapoor and Huma Qureshi in the lead roles. The film did average business at the box office.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 7^th, 2013.

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PappaRoti’s flagship café opened at the ground level of Dolmen City Mall, next to Debenhams. The new eatery serves freshly-baked buns that have a crisp, thin crust topped with a mild coffee-caramel coating and a butter-filled centre. The signature buns are made with a special recipe that contains flour and omega-3 enriched eggs.

First launched in Malaysia in 2003, the brand boasts a decade-long success story and has a presence all over the world, with 400 outlets and kiosks across Malaysia, China, Vietnam, Abu Dhabi, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, India, Indonesia, Bangladesh, United Kingdom, Australia and now in Pakistan. PappaRoti has been brought here by the Zahdan Group.

While speaking to The Express Tribune, Marketing Manager Zahdan Group Sameer Mirza said, “We are offering buns which are made from thin crust. As you glaze them with some butter on top or inside, you will have a mouth-watering experience with an excellent aroma that will capture your senses.”

Mirza added that the café also offers 30 different beverages, including eight flavours of tea, which he said “are exquisite in taste”. He added that the buns are so succulent that they can be eaten even without tea or coffee.

A single bun is priced at Rs200, while a cup of tea starts at Rs100. The café also offers coffee and tea combos, starting from Rs275 and going up to Rs375. About the pricing, Mirza said, “No one will have the authority to say that the tea here is costly.”

Development Director of Zahdan Group Sikander Aziz said, “We plan to give the public a sense of savoury, lightly-buttered buns. Our people would really like the caramel ones — good to go with their tea or frothy coffee.”

Talking about flavoured teas available at the café, Aziz said that they will give “a new definition to karak in the market.”

Aziz mentioned that the group was planning to expand the venture in the country by opening 20 more outlets of PappaRoti in the next five years.

At the event, model and actor Zhalay Sarhadi was present as a chief guest along with her husband Amir Anees. Malaysian Consul General Abu Bakar Mamat was the guest of honour.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 7^th, 2013.

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Every year, more than 1,500 film-makers, directors, producers, actors and press reps from around the world attend the 11-day festival. It has become a place to network, educate, participate and entertain while recognising the work being done in the global film market.

Pakistani film-maker Sabiha Sumar, along with 12 of GMK’s cast and crew including, was present to support the film. Model Amna Ilyas, who made her debut in the film and actors Beo Rana Zafar and RJ and actor Khalid Malik, who played supporting roles were also seen.

Based on the novel Rafina penned by Shandana Minhas, the film is about an underprivileged young girl who dreams to become a model and live a lavish life. The film received positive feedback and all of the three showings were sold out.

Co-ordinator and programmer of the festival Ulf Sigvardson explains an increase in the number of international feature films in the last 10 years. “This year is the biggest festival with 300 feature films and documentaries,” he says. “GIFF granted funds which encouraged international film-makers to produce films without restrictions.”

“Unfortunately, the Swedish government has stopped this funding and if we can’t start a new fund, we will lose some international films.”

GMK was also one of the films supported by the fund, which helped Sumar. GIFF’s decision to end this type of financial assistance means independent film-makers like Sumar will not get the opportunity to showcase their work. “The funds would help produce films that show parts of the world we haven’t seen yet. The film-makers can bring awareness to issues in their country,” explains Sigvardson.

Sigvardson also commented on how insightful it was  watching GMK. “It is a good film, with absolutely brilliant acting. It has been shot in difficult conditions with a minimum budget,” he says. “In the Swedish news all we see are bomb blasts, destruction, and people crying in Pakistan.”

At the screening, model Amna Ilyas said, “I want to do more movies — maybe even in Hollywood, I felt so proud being one of the few to represent Pakistan. I wasn’t expecting so much love and appreciation from the international audience.” She added, “It’s important to fulfill your dreams despite what gender you are. It’s not necessary to take your clothes off to show your freedom in society, it’s important to work towards your goals.”

Actor Khalid Malik felt privileged to be a part of a Pakistani film that is being recognised internationally. “I feel proud, but at the same time, sad that Pakistan is embarrassed of owning our product. We need to own, stand up and support our products,” says Malik.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 7^th, 2013.

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While most have tried to live a life without YouTube — either by using Vimeo and Dailymotion — or around it by using proxies, the Pakistani music industry has suffered largely in silence. One group of artists has realised the importance of such a video-sharing platform, and has come up with a unique way to protest the ban — YouTube Aloud, a collaborative effort between Omran Shafique (Momo) from Mauj, Hamza Jaafri from CoVEN and Pakistan’s child prodigy Usman Riaz.

“YouTube Aloud is a social media page where we [and the Facebook community] express our thoughts about how this ban is having a negative effect on society,” Riaz tells The Express Tribune.

“Everything that I have learnt and achieved is a direct result of having a close connection to the online realm,” says Riaz. “YouTube can be the reason I became a TED Fellow. I would have never had a chance to speak on the TED stage or perform with Preston Reed — the man whose videos I used to watch on YouTube when I first picked up the guitar — if I didn’t have access to YouTube.”

As a representative of the group, Riaz raises the question: “Does it make sense to burn down an entire library just because you don’t agree with the contents of one of its books?”

In December, Riaz had posted a message on his Facebook page, asking other artists such as Adil Omar, Natasha Humera Ejaz and Mole if they would be interested in holding a marathon concert in support of YouTube. He wrote: “It will do two things. (1) It can be the press conference that Hamza Jaafri had in mind to discuss the negative aspects of this ban on the artistic community (which I am sure we all whole-heartedly agree with) and (2) it can result in a lot of artists coming together to perform and show content.”

“Hear! Hear! We are all with you on this one!” posted Meesha Shafi, in response to Riaz’s post. Others reacted in the same spirit, but so far, the concert has not taken place.

Musicians Zohaib Kazi and Zoe Viccaji recently wrote an open letter requesting Interior Minister Rehman Malik to restore the site. A line from the letter reads: “YouTube is a medium that provides a platform for both. It is a library of today and an archive for tomorrow — an archive from which we will be missing”.

Even Junaid Jamshed, the former Vital Signs member turned entrepreneur, feels YouTube should be restored. According to Jamshed, YouTube is a source of research and information. “I think we have already made our point by banning it — now it should be restored immediately,” he says.

“It is a free medium of information for people and plays a pivotal role in religious education because a large number of people go on YouTube to read the Quran and other religious texts,” explains Jamshed. “We are a Muslim nation and will not tolerate or watch anything blasphemous, even if it is present on YouTube. As a Muslim Ummah, we know what is right or wrong for us.”

However, not everyone agrees that the YouTube ban is impacting our music industry in a negative way. Senior musician Asad Ahmed, who has been in the music scene for three decades, says, “[YouTube] should be restored but I don’t think it is harming the music industry.”

“It’s funny that [people are] saying that,” he chuckles. “Around 50% of Coke Studio’s viewership is outside Pakistan and the real YouTube fans in Pakistan already have Spotflux or hotspot shield working for them.”

Published in The Express Tribune, February 7^th, 2013.

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Amy Adams

Walking the red carpet for her nomination for Actress in a Supporting Role, Actor Amy Adams looked feminine and graceful in a J Mendel Spring 2013 floral-print violet frock. Her million dollar smile complemented well with her curly auburn hair, tucked on the side. However, the nude pumps she wore to the luncheon looked more chunky than feminine.

Anne Hathaway

Actor Anne Hathaway made an appearance on the red carpet in black attire from head-to-toe. Hathaway, who is nominated for Actress in a Supporting Role as Fantine in Les Miserables, wore a sleek black Resort 2013 dress with a flowing ruffle back.The 30-year-old worked black sandals with her outfit and wore yellow-gold and pavé diamond stud earrings designed by Jamie Wolf. Bracelets and rings by Jennifer Meyer. A pink lipstick completed her less-is-more look.

Naomi Watts

Strutting down the red carpet, The Impossible actor Naomi Watts was dressed in a graceful, black Valentino dress. We totally love her loose, blonde locks, which she swept sideways. Topping off her look, she sported dazzling pink lipstick. Keeping her ensemble simple, she wore nude Paulina pumps.

Helen Hunt

Actor Helen Hunt, nominated for her performance in The Sessions, looked gorgeous in a knee-length Dolce & Gabbana dress. The ruffled dress with a square neckline looked as graceful as Helen usually does. Her classy and elegant outfit was paired with minimal earrings and a bangle. Unfortunately, the strappy Jimmy Choo sandals did not do justice to the dress. Hunt looked radiant, thanks to the subtle and natural make-up she wore.

Jennifer Lawrence

Actor Jennifer Lawrence, nominated for Silver Linings Playbook, looked absolutely elegant in her white Chloé Spring 2013 dress. Among the dark colours and floral prints at the event, the 22-year-old’s outfit was as breath of fresh air. In a strapless, embossed dress, Lawrence had the red carpet sizzling with her nude lips, smokey eyes and half-tied hair.

Jessica Chastain

Competing with Lawrence for Actress in a Leading Role for her movie Zero Dark Thirty, actor Jessica Chastain wore a black Erdem Report outfit with lace sleeves and bright pink and bluish-grey floral embroidery. Matching the petals on her dress, Chastain worked a pink lip and let her red locks loose to pull off this uber chic look. To finish off the look, Chastain wore nude Christian Louboutin pointed pumps — we love ‘em!

Published in The Express Tribune, February 8^th, 2013.               

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Late singer Whitney Houston’s four wax works have been unveiled at the famous Madame Tussauds museum in London. This is the first time in 200 years that museum authorities have made four different statues of the same person simultaneously.

The four statues show the singer at different stages of her life in her three-decade-long musical career. Although created in London, they will be displayed in other cities as well, reports contactmusic.com. The singer died February 11 last year.

“We were extremely honoured when Madame Tussauds approached us about doing four figures of Whitney from different points in her 30-year career. This is something we are excited to do for the fans,” Houston’s manager and sister-in-law Pat Houston said. The statues will be unveiled in New York on Thursday.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 8^th, 2013.               

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MUMBAI: Zeenat Aman has found love again, but it’s not Sarfaraz Ahsan Ahmed. Puzzled and embarrassed at being linked to a person she knows only casually, she wonders how the guy has been dragged into the picture.

There were reports that 35-year-old Ahmed, a Shiv Sena member and real-estate dealer, is the man Aman is all set to marry. But the diva of yesteryears, who personified modern woman on the big screen with her roles in Hare Rama Hare Krishna, Yaadon Ki Baaraat and The Great Gambler, denies it.

“They got the wrong guy. This is not the man in my life at all. This gentleman that a section of the media has made into the man in my life is someone I’ve known over the years. He is part of the Shiv Sena. I met him when I attended a couple of Shiv Sena events,” said the 61-year-old.

She wonders why the media is linking her to Ahmed, and feels that it is embarrassing for him as well. Aman has two sons who she says are her first priority in life and says she doesn’t want them to be humiliated in public by “such irresponsible games of fantasy match-making,” Aman said.

“I just happened to mention casually to a journalist that there’s someone in my life and there may be marriage in the future. The next thing I knew I was hounded for information on my personal life.” At this point, Aman is in no mood to reveal any more about her personal life than she already has.

“I’ve said as much as I wanted to. No one can get more out of me by throwing names in the public domain. Until I am ready to reveal the identity of the person in my life, no one can get it out of me by barking up the wrong tree. So all I can say at the moment is, sorry guys, you got the wrong person,” Aman said.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 8^th, 2013.               

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MUMBAI: One of the best actors in B-town, Madhuri Dixit is very strict when it comes to health issues and adds she is quite good at multi-tasking too.

“I am a multi-tasker. I can do two things together. I am very strict with myself and my kids too. I handle my diet and I am responsible for my health,” she told IANS in an interview.

During her long and successful innings in filmdom, she churned out hits like Tezaab, Beta, Dil, Dil To Pagal Hai. However, her comeback film after her marriage with the US-based doctor Sriram Nene Aaja Nachle turned out to be a flop when it hit the theatres in 2007.

The 45-year-old has now moved back to India along with her husband and two sons — Arin and Raayan.

She regained her popularity as the judge of dance reality show Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa and has now bagged two important films — Dedh Ishqiya and Gulaab Gang.

When asked about her competitors and strengths Dixit said, “I have never believed in competition. I do what I like and I enjoy it. I am a hard working person. I am creative. I like to dance and act. I love whatever I am doing.”

When talking about her projects, she said that Anurag Kashyap’s Gulaab Gang shooting has started and the camera will start rolling for Vishal Bhardwaj’s Dedh Ishqiya in mid-February. “Both the films have strong roles and very nice characters,” she added.

Madhuri is also known for her million dollar smile, but she regards legendary Madhubala’s smile as the most beautiful. “I love Madhubala’s smile and I think it is the best in the industry,” said the actor who is also a huge fan of Madhubala.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 8^th, 2013.               

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The story revolves around the central character of the film, Kainat Soomro, who was raped by four men while she was on her way back home from school. The film depicts Kainat’s struggle for justice. The story narrates how the ugly incident became a matter of ‘family’s honour’.

The short film titled Outlawed in Pakistan was one of 15 short documentary films selected for the 2013 Sundance Film Festival. Directors and producers of the film Habiba Nosheen and Hilke Schellmann, while speaking to ABC News said that the documentary was inspired by Kainat’s perseverance.

Pakistani-Canadian journalist Nosheen has received several awards, including the Gracie Award for outstanding correspondent and reporter by the Alliance for Women in Media. Hilke is a German journalist who was previously associated with The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times and National Geographic.

The short film shows how Kainat’s family suffered after she decided to bring the alleged perpetrators to justice. Fearing that a tribal court might order the girl’s killing because rape brings shame to the family, Kainat’s family moved to Karachi. However, Kainat and her family refused to give in to tribal norms and stayed resilient in her struggle.

After Kainat’s rape, her father and brother were beaten up by the alleged rapists, while her older brother went missing and was later found murdered. The rape survivor’s family now lives in poverty, but remains unperturbed in its struggle to get justice for Kainat — they hired a lawyer, filed a court appeal and appeared on news channels to bring the alleged rapists to justice.

Nosheen told ABC News, “The film shows how fighting for rape is like in Pakistan, where you don’t have a system to collect evidence, to do proper investigation. When this mechanism is missing and someone comes out and says ‘I am raped’, then it’s just the woman’s word against the men.”

When asked if it was risky to film this case, the Pakistani-Canadian film-maker said, “One of the remarkable advantages of being a female investigative journalist in Pakistan is that no one takes you seriously. So, if you go somewhere with a camera, people don’t worry about being filmed.”

The short film will air on Public Broadcasting Service (PBS), a non-profit American public broadcasting television, this spring in a show called Frontline.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 8^th, 2013.               

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A truly rapturous chaat experience is defined differently depending on whom you ask and generally starts with great chutneys, squishy chick-peas with plenty of spices. Some people prefer onions. Some prefer their chaat without dahi baras; others, no meethi chutney. Some like their chaat to be tomato-free, and some enjoy a little tarka. My last week was spent around town, tucking into favourite picks and suggestions and finding what made them so special. Read on to see which chaat made the list:

Mirchi

Mirchi is an upscale joint where chaat becomes chic! They serve plates of spicy heaven. The chaat is not just aesthetic to look at, but the consistency is mind-blowing. Try their samosa chaat — a medley of the regular ingredients with two potato samosa’s hidden under a mound of titillating condiments. The samosa soaks up the tangy sauces, so set your mind not to expect a crunchy Nimco samosa underneath, but rather sopping triangles, retaining crisp at the corners. This has real texture, is deliciously spicy and the smell of the curry leaves wafts ever so gently — enough to entice even the most discerning of palates. Apart from chaat, Mirchi offers exquisite eats, such as idli, dosa and bhel puri. If you are looking for finely detailed and hygienic chaat, I would steer you towards this family restaurant at Badar Commercial.

Cool Inn

Located at Hashoo Terrace, Block 5, Cool Inn has made it to the list for being one of the most-talked about chaat houses this side of the town. The chaat is balanced with a yummy depth of flavour associated with a homely taste. The menu is extensive and it’s impossible to find a disappointment on this one. Order the double papri chaat and enjoy the boisterous activity on the road. It’s the perfect place for a cheap eat that has earned accolades from chaat aficionados.

Al Rehman Chaat

Al Rehman Chaat (same lane as Flamingo Juice and Chaat) is gaining popularity with all and sundry. You would be bowled over with the freshness of vegetables and the explosion of flavours with their expert blend of spices. They also sell an array of other snacks such as bun kebabs and rolls. It is a must visit joint for a cheap and satisfying meal on the go.

Dandee

Of late, Badar Commercial has bloomed into a radiating back alley for food! Dandee is smack in the middle of Sabah Avenue and Badar intersection. Stuffed to the gills with chick-peas and papri, chaat at Dandee is a winner. This little eatery is a hot spot for residents of Defence and is bustling with activity every evening. Here the chaat is doused with spices and will make your nose run. Prices are standard compared to other chaat houses dotting the city but the taste is unforgettable.

Bombay Chaat House — Bohri Bazar

Few people would expect the city’s best chaat to be found in Bohri Bazar. Prepare yourself for the tang of perfection, only if you can brave the heat, the traffic, nasty stares and filth. Fresh onions, delectable chutneys and mushy peas come together in perfect harmony at the Bombay Chaat House located in Bohri Bazar — this was where my love affair with chaat began. My must-have is the mix chaat — a combination of sweet and sour, lots of crushed papri and a sprinkling of spices. The look of this on the plate is so inviting — the greens and the reds — but not the most salutiferous. But if you really want to experience the juxtaposition of gratifying ingredients and cleanliness is the last thing on your mind, then this is the place for you.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 8^th, 2013.               

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In an interview with The Express Tribune, guitarist and author of Rock & Roll Jihad, Salman Ahmad recalls, “I remember it like yesterday… my first performance of Dil Dil Pakistan with the Vital Signs, 25 years ago.”

“It was the spring of 1988, at Karachi’s Holiday Inn [now Marriott Hotel]. There were 50 people in the audience — mostly friends and family. I was a medical student, JJ was an engineering student, Shahi and Rohail were into computers but we all believed that we could change Pakistan through music. Everyone thought we were crazy. We followed our hearts and the ‘universe conspired to make us succeed.’ [Today] our roller coaster journey and friendship continue into a Naya Pakistan, InshAllah!”

While the former members of Vital Signs — with the exception of Junaid — now create music independently, they have come together recently to make what Salman describes as “a song of revolution and change”.

“I have always been politically outspoken. I agree with Plato when he says, ‘the punishment for refusing to participate in politics is that you get to be ruled by idiots’. My music is my politics. If the song inspires a new political leadership, it would make me extremely happy,” he adds.

Salman confesses that getting Junaid on board was not too difficult. “JJ came to Shahi’s studio just to say hello, but when he heard Naya Pakistan he said, ‘Salman, my greatest regret was not being able to record Jazba Junoon with you!’ So I said JJ, here’s your chance to sing for a Naya Pakistan.”

“That was all the motivation he needed to put down a beautiful, impassioned vocal chorus,” he adds. “Nusrat is also singing harmony on Naya Pakistan — so it makes this a Vital Junoonion!”

Junaid says he was initially reluctant to be part of this project, as he felt the lyrics penned by Salman were aggressive. “The song initially had violent lyrics which spoke about the fire and tyranny around,” says Junaid. “[This is] true, but I felt the message was not coming through that well… later one evening, Shahi asked [him] to mellow it down a bit and then we all agreed upon the content of the song,” says Junaid.

For all those who are excited at the prospect of Junaid singing again, he clarifies that he is not. “Salman is a close friend and he wanted me to be a part of this song. I was reluctant but eventually I ended up reading a few lines [which have no music] at the beginning of the song so that it becomes a collaboration,” he says.

Shahi believes that the song has all the right ingredients to make it into an inspirational number for Pakistanis. “It probably will inspire the most cynical of Pakistanis who have completely lost hope. It has that power,” he says.

Nusrat Hussain, who is also part of the collaboration, says that the experience of sitting together was one to be cherished. “Most of our time was spent laughing hysterically, remembering old times,” says Hussain. “When we seriously sat down to give our input to Naya Pakistan, things were falling into place as if we were a regular band who had practiced for a long time,” he adds.

The teaser of Naya Pakistan is available on SoundCloud and has secured 20,341 hits since its release three days ago. The original track is scheduled to release on Pakistan Day (March 23), with the singers in talks with sponsors for a possible music video.

We can hardly wait to witness the return of artists who have defined our music industry!

Published in The Express Tribune, February 8^th, 2013.               

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LAHORE: Singer Quratulain Balouch, famous for her single “Woh Humsafar,” was hospitalised after it was discovered that the car accident she had been involved in recently had left her worse off than initially thought.

Known as QB for short, her manager DJ Mac explained to The Express Tribune that on February 2, the singer was going to the airport to catch a flight to Dubai, when a car hit her vehicle. The collision flipped her car. The singer was immediately rushed to Combined Military Hospital in Lahore.

Doctors at the hospital gave her a clean bill of health after an initial inspection and released her. DJ Mac explained that after the singer was released, she started feeling increased pain in her spinal area.

The artist was then taken to the National Hospital. QB is now due to undergo a surgery.

“She will be fine and following the surgery she will be able to recover and continue with her musical engagements,” said Mac.

Mac added that her immediate engagements including tours and concerts have been suspended owing to her scheduled surgery. Mac hoped that the singer will have recovered for her tour of UK, tentatively scheduled for March and April.

Bollywood actor Kareena Kapoor looked stunning at the launch of Rochelle Pinto’s book The Style Diary of a Bollywood Diva in the Shangri-La Hotel, Mumbai on Wednesday.

Make-up

If you have not invested in a bright lip colour yet, be sure to get your hands on Mac’s Lady Danger (Rs1,700). This famous red/orange pout has been flaunted at red carpets everywhere. Line your eyes with Color Studio Pro Dip eyeliner (Rs600) and highlight your cheek bones with some Body Shop bronzer (Rs2,000).

Hair

Her long lovely locks fell straight behind her shoulders, looking shiny as ever. To achieve a similar look, rub the ends of your hair with some anti-frizz serum — we recommend using Garnier’s Anti Frizz Serum (Rs300); the small bottle will last you forever since you only have to use a drop! Iron your hair and spray on some Pantene Heat Protection Shine Spray (Rs600)

Accessories

We don’t see Bebo wearing too many accessories, with the exception of her massive wedding ring and favourite coral ring that she wears everywhere. It’s best to keep the accessories understated with this one, considering the belt is a statement on its own.

Outfit

Pair up a black knee length long sleeved dress with a fashionable dull gold belt. This outfit screams elegance and class. Look for a fashionable belt at stores like Splash or rummage through the racks at your local vintage market, Sunday Bazaar. For a similar dress, check out Wardrobe (Rs1,000)

Shoes

Patent leather is in style and Bebo is rocking black wedge peep toes with her killer look.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 9^th, 2013.

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Shaikh exhibited 54 pieces of jewellery with raw semi-precious stones like turquoise, tourmaline and jade, encrusted in gold-plated silver chunky lockets, dangling earrings and buttons — each being a statement piece. The stones are purchased mainly from vendors in Pakistan, India and China, with the jewellery being priced between Rs20,000 to Rs45,000. “The stones have not been treated at all to maintain their natural beauty, which is why they stand out and add an antique streak to the pieces,” said the designer.

Talking to The Express Tribune, Shaikh said that having lived in the United States for the past eight years, she draws inspiration from renowned brands like Tiffany & Co and Cartier. “Many people in Pakistan do not have access to collections of such big brands and I wanted to make exclusive pieces at affordable prices,” she said.

“I always wanted to wear different, exclusive pieces which describe my personality,” she added. “Hence, the idea was to create something exclusive for every woman. This jewellery is meant for people who choose not to wear expensive gold pieces and prefer wearing gold-plated pendants, instead of artificial ones.”

She said that she tries to keep prices as affordable as possible for “someone who is confident enough to wear these pieces”.

Shaikh plans to hold an exhibition in the Middle East next, for clients who are interested in statement jewellery pieces.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 9^th, 2013.

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The young actors that came to him included Dawar Mehmood of KopyKat Productions, who is now the director of Aangan Terrha. Along with Maqsood, he briefed the media about the comeback of Aangan Terrha on Thursday afternoon at the Karachi Arts Council.

Taking a jibe at the socio-political situation of Pakistan, Maqsood said, “Aangan 1983 mein bhi Terrha tha or 2013 mae bhi tera hai (The situation was unfavourable in 1983, just as it is in 2013).”

No one but a satirical genius like Maqsood could compress a 13-episode show into a 100-minute long stage play. “When you were able to summarise the entire history of Pakistan in 90 minutes for Pawnay 14 August, then this should not be a great task for you,” Maqsood quoted the team of KopyKat Productions, while explaining why he took up the challenge.

The satirical TV show Aangan Terrha touched upon different social issues and was an indirect criticism of former ruler Ziaul Haq’s martial law regime. The original show starred Salim Nasir, Bushra Ansari, Arshad Mehmood, Shakeel and Durdana Butt in the main roles, while Lehri, Moin Akhter, Alamgir and Qazi Wajid made guest appearances. “This time around, I want youngsters to take charge of Aangan Terrha,” said the writer.

“I could have easily taken the original cast and they would have loved to perform it,” said Maqsood. “Per unka aangan seedha ho chuka hai. Nayi nasal ka aangan terrha hai (their condition has improved but the new generation has shortcomings),” he added.

Mehmood said that he is nervous and excited about doing something “as incredibly brilliant as Aangan Terrha” on stage.

“When we founded KopyKat Productions, I used to tell my friends that I will do Aangan Terrha on stage, but no one took me seriously,” said Mehmood. “Today, it feels like my dream has come true because Aangan Terrha was the reason why we started doing theatre.”

Tickets are available for Rs1,500 at the Karachi Arts Council, where Aangan Terrha will be performed at 8:30pm for 90 days starting from February 8.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 9^th, 2013.

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WARSAW: The Polish city of Gdansk said it was offended by Hollywood blockbuster “Zero Dark Thirty” for labelling the home town of the communist bloc’s first independent labour union as the location of a secret CIA detention centre.

The controversial movie has already sparked controversy by suggesting that the torture of al Qaeda suspects played an important role in tracking down al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, who was killed by US special forces during a raid on a Pakistan compound in 2011.

Polish prosecutors are looking into the country’s role in helping US intelligence services transport suspected members of the al Qaeda group who carried out the September 11, 2001 suicide airliner attacks on New York and Washington to facilities outside the United States for interrogation.

The remote airfield in northern Poland where human rights groups accuse the CIA of flying al Qaeda suspects is located some 200 km (124 miles) from Gdansk, where electrician Lech Walesa co-founded the Solidarity trade union movement which toppled the communist government more than two decades ago.

The film offers a view from the sea of an industrial building, a red ship with a darkening sky in the background and the caption: “CIA BLACK SITE, Gdansk, Poland.”

“The name ‘Gdansk’ is synonymous with freedom and Solidarity,” Gdansk Mayor Pawel Adamowicz said.

“In the movie it has been turned to a gloomy place where secret services interrogate people accused of terrorism. We are simply offended,” he told Reuters.

Poland’s government has never publicly acknowledged the existence of CIA prison centres on its territory. The investigation into the country’s involvement in the CIA’s “rendition” programme is now in its fifth year and prosecutors asked earlier this week for another extension.

Chances are that you may have a wedding or two in the pipeline, even so, there’s no reason to skip out on Valentine’s. We bring you Farah Talib Aziz’s plush red detailed cotton net formals and stylist Anam Falak in a glamorous Nomi Ansari Rani Bagh original that will ensure you end up with more Valentines than you started out with! Pair them with satin ribbon-strapped peep toe sandals by Samia & Azmay Shahzada and punctuate with an extremely appropriate Egyptian love poem detailed calligraphy beaded clutch by Fashion Compassion’s brand new label Sarah’s Bag available through their web store, http://fashioncompassion.co.uk/. This would make an amazingly memorable gift for mothers, daughters, and significant others as well.

If a trendy fusion piece is more your, style Sania Maskatiya’s Manchala collection will be in stores in the days leading up to Valentine’s. Here’s a peek at the selection of tapered contemporary cut tunics in rich wine and scarlet shades. We love her trademark scrunched-up-stitch and geometric screen print, a definite trend to keep for 2013.

Are you feeling the Valentine’s Day vibe yet? If not, we have just the thing for you. A list of the most covetable fashion items handpicked to put you in the mood to take on this holiday in style. This Valentine’s, show yourselves some love first and the rest will fall in place. Whatever you have planned for the evening, be it an intimate dinner for two, family fun, a night out with good friends, or a wedding that you just can’t miss, here’s what you’re looking for.

After seeing Ayesha Mustafa in her lovely and befitting Beshtar Burqa dress exclusively retailing through Fashion Compassion, we’re sure you will find it most becoming for your own Valentine’s wardrobes.

For the more high fashion trendsetters amongst you we recommend Sanam Chaudhri’s exotic Kage collection pieces in blood red, paired with Shibori tie-dye statement prints that will certainly get you attention from your Valentine and others.

Party people let the colour do all the talking and keep it simple with sultry silk jumpsuits by Shehla Chatoor and Maheen Karim complemented by minimalistic gold touches. For an all red look like Frieha opt for a Samia Azmay suede clutch to match. If you’re attending a more formal soirée, visit Zainab Salman’s Red Label Collection featuring stunning modern cut silk tunics styled with cutwork and appliqué detailing.

Dinner plans are the most popular item on the list of things to do and therefore we have a few options starting with Misha Lakhani’s signature devore velvet burn out dress in a deep maroon available through http://style360labels.com/, a perfect shade for the night and for those of you who shy away from bright reds.

Now that you feel and look good you can start thinking about your gifts! Guys we promise you anything that will fit into this adorable box designed by Blob Creations is sure to score you major points. Girls you need not think too much; you’ve already delivered half your gift by looking beautiful, the other half will suffice with this delicious looking jar of cookie mix with instructions on the jar, exclusively personalised by Blob Creations. On behalf of Secret Closet we wish all our readers a happy and joyous Valentine’s Day. For more information on the designers mentioned, visit our website.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 9^th, 2013.

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Singer-turned-actor Ali Zafar is all set for the release of his film Chashme Buddoor, which is director David Dhawan’s remake of the ’80s classic of the same name. The teaser, which was released on Thursday, is a perfect blend of wacky, slapstick and situational comedy humour with hilarious background music.

The original Chashme Buddoor, produced by Gul Anand, is about three students of Delhi University — Siddharth (Farooque), Omi (Rakesh Bedi) and Jai (Ravi Baswani) — who stay back in college during one summer vacation and how a girl Neha (Deepti) comes into their lives.

According to the Times of India, Dhawan says he decided to remake CB because he loves the original film and is familiar with the genre. In 2013’s Chashme Baddoor, a series of lies, secrets and comical situations promises to make the flick a thoroughly enjoyable family experience. When asked to comment on the project, Ali said, “When I saw the original Chashme Buddoor, I knew that the plot must retain its authenticity. Also, while it must have been a challenge to render it into modern times and aesthetics, David sir has done a brilliant job. It’s a family entertainer. We are all excited about it.”

The movie is scheduled for a worldwide release on April 5, 2013.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 9^th, 2013.

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Pakistani-American actor Theba arrived precisely three minutes before he was expected at the informal talk with fans at T2F, smiling ear-to-ear and looking comfortable in a crisp orange cotton kurta and a dusty-blue patterned scarf.

Before he took the floor to talk to his fans, I was lucky enough to have a quick chat with him. As Theba spoke, his face was radiant and his voice clear; he didn’t mind repeating himself over all the chatter, and proudly flaunted his poised Urdu accent. I realised he would make an articulate radio jockey.

“It always feels wonderful coming back to Pakistan,” he said. “I had mixed feelings [before I returned]; I love the country I was born in, but the political and the security situation here…” he trailed off, perhaps to avoid making a negative comment.

“I’m not scared, but I know that every time you leave your house, you are taking a chance with life,” he said. Moving on to things he loves about Karachi, he said, “I love going towards Clifton and smelling the ocean, it’s comforting in its own way.”

He smiled as he compared beaches in Los Angeles to Karachi saying, “Beaches in LA are cleaner, but beaches here are more interesting — they have camels! And the spirit of people is just so endearing. Everyone here goes through hell everyday but the zeal for living goes on. People celebrate life and they have a pursuit of happiness.”

Before Theba opened his talk, he was silent for a moment and then said, “What do I say, yaar?” The room echoed with the laughter.

He talked about his stay in Pakistan, and said that he loves being around people. “I enjoy eating biryani, zarda and kebabs. My stay here is always crazy, hectic, wonderful and fun.”

He kept the audience engaged by slipping into the persona of Principal Figgins from time to time.

He also talked about his journey to Hollywood. “It all started when I graduated as a civil engineer. I hated my major and went up to my father to tell him that. My father reacted just as any other father in his place would — he told me to deal with it.” Theba said he shrugged off the idea of giving up and took up a summer internship with a school senior.

“I soon realised that this is not what I want, so I quit it and waited tables to pay the bills.”

The turning point in Theba’s life came when his friend invited him to see the play she was acting in. “It was the first time I went to any play and it got me thinking.” Theba described acting as a “very mystical field” and said that he was immediately fascinated by it.

“It was a difficult decision,” he went on. “You spend four years in school and then put the money and time to waste. It takes courage to open up to your family and tell them, you only live once,” he said, as the audience shouted “YOLO!”

Theba said being a Pakistani in America has worked in his favour. “I get way more acting offers only because I am a Pakistani, I don’t feel like I am discriminated against,” he said.

Theba recalled his first role in the film A Decent Proposal, where he delivered only one line which was later chucked out. “I didn’t give up,” the actor said, “You need to keep your faith strong and be ready to make sacrifices.”

Published in The Express Tribune, February 9^th, 2013.

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Are you under a lot of stress at work or at home?

You don’t need to spend lots of cash to buy yourself some peace of mind. All you need to do is spare a few seconds and focus on your breathing. It is something we can control and regulate to achieve a relaxed state of mind.

Breathing is at the centre of any pilates or yoga exercise. In order to maximise the effects of any exercise, it is important to practice deep breathing.

It is time to get to the bottom of these breathing techniques now. Follow closely; it is not as easy as it sounds!

1. Lie down on your back on the bed or an exercise mat.
2. Place your feet about shoulder-width apart. Rest one hand on your navel and the other on your chest.
3. Slowly inhale through your nose, filtering the air, and exhale through the mouth.
4. Concentrate on your breathing for a few minutes; be aware of which hand is rising and which one is descending with each breath you take. Keep your shoulders relaxed and do not push them upwards.
5. Exhale most of the air in your lungs.
6. Now inhale slowly counting to four, with an interval of only one second between the numbers, and notice how your belly button starts to move away from the spine.
7. Then exhale and experience the reverse process where your belly button is drawn towards the spine to force the air out of the lungs.

Repeat this five to ten times and if you experience difficulty while inhaling and exhaling to the count of four, simply shorten the count.  Ideally, take 10 breaths in the morning and 10 at night, or as many as you can, to get in sync and to make it a part of your daily routine.

If you want to make the exercises a bit more fun, get your hands on a pilates ball and get rolling.

1. To begin, place your mat on the floor and lie on it.

- Bend your knees so your feet are firmly pressed on the mat.

- Hold a small pilates ball in your hands, close to your knees, and take a deep breath. Slowly bring your arms over your head, lengthening the spine and pushing the belly button towards the spine.

- Exhale and bring your arms back to their original position.

- Repeat 10 times.

2. For this exercise, place the short side of your mat against a wall.

- Sit on the exercise mat with your back against the wall.

- Stretch your legs before you and keep them wide apart.

- Hold the pilates ball and stretch your arms before you.

- Inhale and bring your arms over your head, lengthening your torso.

- Exhale and bring your arms back to position.

- Repeat 10 times.

Tips:

Inhaling energises the body and exhaling relaxes it. To rejuvenate the mind and the body, take more time inhaling and less time exhaling. You will notice the instant calming effect.

Always keep the shoulders relaxed and do not raise your chest. Try to lengthen your torso so you can keep your spine straight. It is also one of the best ways to increase height.

Published in The Express Tribune, Sunday Magazine, February 10^th, 2013.

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