LOS ANGELES: The Wolverine, starring Hugh Jackman as Marvel Comics’ sharp-clawed superhero, slashed its way to $55 million in US and Canadian ticket sales, to claim the box office crown in a summer that hasn’t been kind to some other big-budget action films.

The Conjuring, the low-budget horror film that led last weekend’s box office, slipped to second place with $22.1 million in domestic sales from Friday through Sunday, according to studio estimates.

The film has generated nearly $84 million in overall ticket sales, a surprisingly strong showing for a film that cost just under $20 million to make.

The animated film Despicable Me 2, featuring the voice of comic actor Steve Carell, finished third with $16 million in ticket sales in its fourth week at movie theatres. The film was made by Universal Pictures and has collected more than $660 million in ticket sales around the world.

Animated film Turbo, about a super-speedy snail with dreams of racing in the Indy 500, took the fourth slot with sales of $13.3 million. Ryan Reynolds provides the voice for the title character in the film.

The Wolverine fell short of Hollywood insiders’ $72 million weekend estimates, the latest in a string of big-budget action films that failed to meet expectations, though it performed strongly overseas.

In recent weeks R.I.P.D., Pacific Rim, The Lone Ranger, and White House Down all fizzled at the box office.

“We’re incredibly happy with this result,” said Chris Aronson, president of domestic distribution for 20th Century Fox, which distributed The Wolverine.

“It’s good news on a global scale, and this is a global business,” Aronson said. The film took in more than $86 million internationally, for a total worldwide gross of $141 million.

In limited release, comedy The To Do List earned just over $1.5 million from 591 theatres, close to its $1.5 million production cost.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 30^th, 2013.

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The six-day extravaganza at Indian Bridal Fashion Week 2013 was a true picture of every bride’s dream. World-renowned designers including JJ Valaya, Rohit Bal and Tarun Tahilini wowed the audience with magnificent and gorgeously intricate bridal collections. Indian fashion weeks are known for using Bollywood celebs as showstoppers and the Indian Bridal Fashion Week was no different. From evergreen oldies to fun-loving youngsters, stars were seen walking down the ramp in mesmerising bridal couture. Here is a round-up on the highlights of the event.

Nargis Fakhri

The Rockstar actor of Pakistani origin dazzled in a Mughal-inspired bridal ensemble, courtesy of designer duo Ashima-Leena.

Nargis looked ravishing sporting a gold silk lehenga with a screen-printed border and a heavily embellished pink koti from the collection.

The gold matha patti and her side-parted hair-do made her look even more royal.

Anil Kapoor

Sonam’s father Anil Kapoor was also not far behind.

He looked traditional and sober in an embellished waistcoat and textured kurta by designer Raghavendra Rathore, who made his comeback to the ramp after four years.

The ever-so-stylish actor could beat any young and thriving lad in Bollywood looking simply ‘jhakaas!’ in this outfit.

Esha Gupta

While she may have scared us to death in Raaz 3, actor Esha Gupta looked heavenly in a red and gold lehenga from designer Adarsh Gill’s collection called ‘Evolution — an ode to contemporary Indian Woman’.

Esha surely set the ramp ablaze with her simple and subtle make-up and exquisite diamond jewelry. With fresh flowers tucked into her hair and a smile that can melt down the hearts of a zillion, Esha was a true picture of elegance.

Kangana Ranaut

The unconventional Bollywood beauty, Kangana Ranaut opened the fashion week in a colourful, eye-popping creation by designer JJ Valaya, who was also recently hired to design lawn for Five Star.

JJ Valaya’s collection titled the ‘Maharaja of Madrid’ (King of Madrid) was inspired from Spanish arts and crafts and was surely a treat for the eyes.

With the multi-toned lehenga, the turban-like head gear and exquisite semi-precious jewelry, Kangana truly represented a gorgeous tribal bride.

Kabir Bedi 

Actor Kabir Bedi was also seen in one of JJ Valaya’s creation. While the overall attire fits well with the concept of the collection, we still can’t help but feel that the actor looks more like a character out of Alibaba Aur 40 Chor in this extremely busy outfit. The only thing missing is probably a sword.

Nonetheless, we admire this veteran’s efforts to add some drama to fashion week.

Sonam Kapoor

The fashion diva of the 21st century is known for her uber-chic sense of style, worldwide. Sonam strutted the runway for designer Rohit Bal, who made his debut at the Indian Bridal Fashion Week.

Sonam looked like a goddess in an ethereal white and gold lehenga choli from Bal’s collection called The Mulmul Masquerade.

We are so digging the traditional jhoomar and the stunning jarau kangans!

Published in The Express Tribune, July 30^th, 2013.

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MUMBAI: It seems Bollywood is short of fictional stories and hence, is hitched onto biopics. After Farhan Akhtar and Priyanka Chopra, who have taken to biopics as ace athlete Milkha Singh and Mary Kom respectively, Bollywood’s khiladi Akshay Kumar could well be on his way to essay late wrestle and actor, Dara Singh.

Dara Singh’s son Vindoo, who won the third season of reality show Bigg Boss, says he has been approached by director Rohit Jugraj for a project based on the life of his father. “Yes, Rohit Jugraj has approached me to make a film on my father’s life. Akshay Kumar has been chosen to play my father in this project. However, Akshay would need time to bulk up,” he said.

Vindoo, who was recently seen in the news for being accused of spot-fixing in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and was even jailed for 13 days in relation to the case, added, “All these things happened and so, I did not want to embarrass Akshay by connecting with him at a time when the media was hounding me.”

But now the project will take off. Apparently Akshay, who will supposedly be seen playing the role of Dawood Ibrahim in the upcoming movie Once Upon A Time in Mumbai Dobaara and who earlier wanted to play Milkha Singh, is very keen to portray Dara Singh on screen. However, as highlighted by Vindoo, he will need time to build his physique like the legendary wrestler.

Interestingly, there is another Dara Singh biopic in the pipeline. However, this one is in Punjabi.

“Yes I’ve been approached by the producers of Jatt & Juliet with a Punjabi film in which they want Sangram Singh to play my dad. Let’s see which one materialises first,” said Vindoo.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 30^th, 2013.

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The clever, hassle-free ones resort to multi-brand stores to pick ready-to-wear outfits off the rack.

However, considering you will be dishing out quite a handful of cash for your Eid shopping spree, we have decided to list down some of the hottest trends around town so that you make a worthwhile investment.

Silks

Silk by Fawad Khan Summer Collection

The age-old fabric spun by over a million spiders, Silk has beaten chiffon this Eid by a great margin.

Be it charmeuse silk, raw silk, cotton silk or silk net, this material is bang on trend. While raw silk is a bit stiff, all others offer a great flowy drape covering the curves to give a lustrous look.

Get it screen-printed, block-printed, digitally-printed or simply have it embroidered, the hand-woven garment should be your top pick for making a fashion statement during festivities.

Digital prints

Digital Print by Khaadi Khaas

Mughal art and abstract paintings are not just for your walls, digital printed fabric has been making the rounds on the runway since last year.

From London Fashion Week to PFDC 2013, all designers seem to be turning their favourite piece of art into a ready-to-wear outfit. Even if you are not a fan of prints, these bold and colourful inkjet designs will definitely steal your attention.

From beautiful landscapes to eye-catching serpents, literally everything can be experimented with on a fabric and made into gorgeous overcoat, kameez, palazzos and even a jumpsuit. If you are not willing to spend Rs20,000 on designer prints on silk, hit the bazaars for limited but reasonable prints.

Chikankari

Bridal Couture by Farah Talib Aziz

Chikankari originated from the heart of Lucknow and made its way into the historical cities of Multan and Bhawalpur. Today, it is one of the the hottest trend across all major cities. Having lost its charm somewhere in the 1990s, chikankari work has made a grand comeback.

With its intricate handwork detailing on lightweight, airy cottons, perfect to beat the summer heat, a chikankari kurta is a must-have this Eid. The traditional handwork has become a top priority for bridal wear with a number of designers incorporating it with mukesh and pearl work.

Model Mehreen Syed was also recently spotted wearing a surreal white chikankari sari at the LSAs 2013. Cotton chikankari kurtas mostly come with a designer label and a price range starting at Rs10,000.

Higher hemlines

Eid Collection by Zari Faisal

As much as we have used and abused extra-long, flared, gown-like kameezes, it’s time to chop off the inches and settle somewhere at 46. While we hate to let go of the slimming effect rendered by the exquisitely flowy shirts, shorter shirts are giving off some really fresh vibes.

All major names in the fashion industry including, the likes of Nida Azwer, Sania Maskatiya and SanaSafinaz, have experimented with shorter, crisp lengths for Eid, pairing shirts with cigarette pants. You might still spot a woman or two hosting the morning show in baggy flares but you must be aware that shorter lengths have stepped into the limelight.

Perky Palazzos

Maria B. Summer Collection

Do away with your tights and make space for flattering and super-comfy palazzo pants. Ever since the runways were invaded by the 60s-inspired trousers, palazzo pants have spread like wild fire and there is no reason for you to not give into the temptation. From Maria B. to Elanm, everyone was seen playing with the palazzos at the PFDC Fashion Week 2013.

These are readily available at every other retail outlet in solid colours as well as quirky prints. You can even get them stitched from your tailor — it only takes two and half yards of malai lawn!

Published in The Express Tribune, July 30^th, 2013.

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If rumours are to be believed, Bollywood’s serial kisser Emraan Hashmi has expressed his wish to work with Pakistani beauty Humaima Malik, in a movie tentatively titled Shaatir.

Rumours had been flying about casting Humaima for the Kunal Deshmukh film. Indian news agency IANS quoted a source as saying: “Humaima has been approached, but nothing is official right now. A screen test has been conducted. UTV and Kunal are looking for a fresh face for Emraan and if things fall into place, in all probability she [Humaima] will step into the project.”

The model-turned-actor has already gone through an extensive screen test. Humaima has impressed everyone, including director Kunal Deshmukh.

“The producers as well as the director won’t be ready to talk about casting her yet, since the nitty-gritty of the contract is being worked out. And they don’t want to jump the gun before signing her formally, since she is from Pakistan and no one knows what kind of issues might crop up,” the insider adds.

Deshmukh says, “It’s too early to talk about it. I can only reveal to you that Humaima has indeed (screen) tested with us.”

Another source says, “The film will bring forth a fresh pairing. Since there are hardly any actresses left, who have available dates, Kunal decided to cast a fresh face. He had seen Humaima work in Bol and was very impressed.”

The role was reportedly offered to Priyanka Chopra and Jacqueline Fernandez first, but they couldn’t take up the project due to date constraints.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 30^th, 2013.

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Actor Veena Malik recently visited the shrine of Hazrat Nizamuddin in New Delhi to pray for peace and success. According to a Times of India report, the starlet prayed for the friendship between India and Pakistan to flourish, and also for her upcoming film Supermodel to fare well.

At the shrine, Veena was seen offering her prayers and breaking her fast along with administrative members of the shrine. She looked graceful in a black anarkali with gold trimmings, and had the right amount of make-up on, as compared to other public appearances where she is seen with an overdose of foundation.

“It feels very much like Ramazan (in India),” Veena told The Express Tribune via telephone. “There is a big Indian Muslim population. I usually have iftar with my colleagues.”

After being received by the shrine’s manager Afsar Ali Nizami, Veena walked barefoot into the mosque and made herself comfortable on the floor where an iftari spread was laid out. Later, with flowers in her hand and a dupatta on her head, Veena offered prayers at the shrine. “I am a very religious person and it is a pleasure for me to break my roza at Hazrat Nizamuddin’s dargah in the holy month of Ramazan,” she said.

As the crowds swelled with her arrival, administrative officials moved Veena to the office inside the shrine. Talking about her experience, Veena said, “I earned solace and peace. I have a spiritual and religious side to me. In Pakistan, I used to go to Data Darbar, Bibi Pak Daman and Kolhra Shareef — it’s where I find complete solace.”

She also talked about her Ramazan experience in India. “In Pakistan, you feel it in the air… nobody eats on the street. In India, you experience it otherwise, but there is respect for other religions.”

On the occasion, the starlet also shared that she had prayed for her family. “I have a strong bond with my family, close friends and career,” she said, adding that she had prayed for the health and happiness of her father Malik Muhammad Ali Aslam, mother, sisters and her friend Sheikh Umar Farooq.

Last week, Veena had posted on Twitter, “I will go to Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia (R.A) sahib tomorrow…InshaAllah will pray for all my followers and fans….May God bless us all!!!”

After offering prayers at the Dargah, she posted images on Twitter and wrote: “Blessedness…supreme happiness!!! Thank you God for blessing me with everything I have desired in life….I am blessed!!”

Hazrat Nizaam-uddin Auliya (R.A) Sahib calling…..im Blessed!!! pic.twitter.com/sPieXuOqep

— Veena Malik (@iVeenaMalik) July 25, 2013

Veena is currently awaiting the release of her film Silk, and is also simultaneously promoting her upcoming film Supermodel which has been shot in the Fiji islands. Veena plays a poor girl who shoots to stardom in the movie.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 30^th, 2013.

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When asked why she agreed to feature in the recently banned Josh Condoms TV commercial, Mathira responds by saying, “Somebody had to do it – I believe sex education is very necessary.”

The video clip of the ad garnered hundreds of thousands of hits on social media, but the 50-second commercial was banned by Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra), for “immoral content” after numerous complaints were filed.

Unmoved by Pemra’s action, the TV-show host, who has been given names like “sex kitten” and “the Paris Hilton of Pakistan” by the LA Times, is irked by the “hypocritical” response of Pakistani society.

“Watching porn is not considered vulgar [by society], but this [Josh Condom] ad is – this is the height of immaturity,” she says. She then draws parallels with ads she considers ‘suggestive’.

“A woman licking her finger dunked in ketchup in an ad is considered okay, but a condom is subjected to such harsh criticism! This (behaviour) is certainly not good.”

Mathira adds that the ad, which was considered ‘racy’ by many, was meant to communicate a public service message amidst Pakistan’s increasing population.

“I gave my message very clearly. The awaam (people) must think (about the population rate). I believe what I did was right,” she says, refusing to disclose how much she was paid to take up the campaign.

When asked how she deals with the criticism – which most times is pretty personal – Mathira says she blocks it out.

“People think it’s easy to hear rubbish about yourself, but it’s not. Everyone has a heart, no matter how heartless they pretend to be. I am aware of what people say about me but my brain starts to blur them out.”

Her ‘item girl’ moment

Her attention-seeking stunts and reputation of being self-assured have landed her some high-profile spots in the industry. Not only was Mathira chosen to host and perform at the recently held Lux Style Awards in Lahore, but she is also being cast as an item girl for actor-turned-film-maker Humayun Saeed’s Main Hoon Shahid Afridi.

When contacted by The Express Tribune, Saeed was all praise for her performance. “The few people who have seen the premiere of this film gawked in awe after seeing Mathira’s performance. She has done a wonderful job. She has performed very elegantly alongside [actor] Mahnoor Baloch,” says Saeed.

The song, which has been directed by ace director Saqib Malik, may be a “bit controversial” for the audiences, but Mathira has not done it in a “cheap manner”, says Saeed. “We have our fingers crossed! The song releases this Eid.”

Mathira, who is delighted to have worked with Malik, says that the shooting of the song was strenuous. “I danced back-to-back for two days. Working with Saqib was a lot of fun. He is super-talented and this item number will surely rock the Bollywood charts, too!” She adds that Malik has the skills of a foreign director.

When selecting projects, Mathira says she only works with those who trust her to deliver. “When I work with someone, I ask them, ‘do you trust me?’. When they say yes, then I act like less of a diva and more of a robot. I only work with people who actually understand how to use Mathira,” she says, adding, “I also have to face my mom so everything happens with her consent!”

The budding artiste, who has released a music video in the past, also revealed that she will be releasing a song titled, Mathira, one week after the release of the film.

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Published in The Express Tribune, July 30^th, 2013.

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LOS ANGELES: With The Simpsons entering its 25th season, the yellow animated characters continue to shine on screen and are not ready to leave. A show that most of us grew up watching and still watch, has about 530 episodes till date and the number is expected to grow further as a new agreement has surfaced.

Twentieth Television, a unit of Rupert Murdoch’s 21st Century Fox, plans to market re-runs of the Fox network’s long-running animated comedy The Simpsons. They are targeting a package of up to $1 billion, a person with knowledge of the plans said on Monday.

The studio first syndicated the show featuring Bart and Homer Simpson to TV stations in 1998. The new deal would license re-runs to stations and cable channels at the same time, the person said. The show’s creator Matt Groening would share in the proceeds.

The show features a family of five fictional characters — Homer Simpson (dad), Marge Simpson (mom), Bart (son), Lisa (daughter) and Maggie (baby daughter) — who live in a small town called Springfield and each episode is a new adventure of theirs. Other characters on the show include Apu (an Indian), Milhouse (Bart’s friend), Ned Flanders (their neighbour), Skinner (school principal), Krusty the Clown and several others.

News of the marketing effort was first reported in TV Guide.

The company’s fx cable channel is expected to have first claim to the show. Other potential buyers are Viacom, whose cable properties include Comedy Central and Nick at Nite, and Turner Broadcasting.

A Fox spokesman had no comment.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 31^st, 2013.

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If you grew up in the ‘90s, then the list below will take you back in time. We never missed an episode of Friends or Seinfeld and hid under our blankets in the dark as we watched I Know What You Did Last Summer and guessed what the next chain of events would be. The white mask used in Scream still brings back haunting memories and sleepless nights.

And then there was Baywatch and The X-Files — shows we weren’t allowed to watch. It ultimately resulted in us watching Cartoon Network where Didi would get on Dexter’s last nerve and flip over his secret laboratory or watch the Powerpuff Girls save the day. All in All, those were the good days!

The Powerpuff Girls

Home Alone

Baywatch

101 Dalmations

Scream

I Know What You Did Last Summer

Dexter’s Laboratory

Oprah

Seinfeld

Home Improvement

The Nanny

Sabrina, the Teenage Witch

Mr Bean

Mathilda

Jumanji

Friends

Jurassic Park

Published in The Express Tribune, July 31^st, 2013.

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Like Atif Aslam and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, pop singer Shiraz Uppal seeks refuge in Bollywood. He lent his voice to the title track of Anand L Rai’s movie Raanjhanaa for which music has been composed by AR Rahman. Uppal was seen partying with the cast and crew, including Sonam Kapoor, at JW Marriot in Mumbai last week as the movie reached its INR1 billion mark.

“I was in Chennai when Anand called and invited me to the party. I then headed to Mumbai,” Uppal told The Express Tribune. “I was told that my voice suited the song really well,” he added, about the song that was featured on Dhanush. “So he has asked me to sing more Tamil songs for his upcoming movies.”

When asked if he would need to learn Tamil in order to sing in that language, he said, “I don’t need to at all. Since I was a little kid, I would copy the exact accent I would hear in a song be it Arabic, Japanese or any other language.” He added that even if he doesn’t know the meaning of the lyrics, he is able to sing like someone who knows the language.

Commenting on the film’s ban in Pakistan, he laughed and said: “If the guy were Muslim and the girl were Hindu, instead of the other way around, then it would’ve easily released here.”

Apart from that, a tour and more Bollywood projects — which he didn’t name — are also in the pipeline for the singer.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 31^st, 2013.

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Fashion designers Maheen Karim and Safinaz Munir were spotted at the opening of Nida Azwer Atelier in Karachi, looking fresh and relaxed. Here is a breakdown of what they were wearing:

Maheen Karim

Hair & Make-up

Simplicity dominates Maheen’s look, as she complements a light lip colour and subtly done blush-on.

The wavy hair with back combing is a thumbs-up. Such a relief to see a fresh face instead of one layered with make-up. 

Clothes

Loyal to her brand, Maheen wore a colour blocked cotton kurta with a pretty floral design — the perfect thing to have in this deadly heat.

The tapered camel pants and emerald green buttons are perfect touches. 

Accessories and Shoes

We are in love with this chunky gold bangle with colour stone pieces. The emerald green studs are also a win and totally in keeping with her casual, understated look.

Her nude Bottega clutch and Swarovski encrusted flats are the perfect pieces to make a statement.

Safinaz Muneer

Hair & Make-up

Safinaz also seems to be a fan of simplicity, as explained by subtle make-up, and open hair. We love that she has avoided straightening her hair and has opted for natural curls at the ends. 

Clothes

Lime is surely the colour of the season! And who knows it better than this design queen? Her silk shirt with broad panels is stitched smartly and ends right above the knee — the hemline of the season. 

Accessories and Shoes

Pearls are an all-time winner, earning her a big round of applause from us for wearing beautiful pearl earrings and a long dangly pearl necklace. The snake-skin heels, camel clutch and gold watch are all the elements of classic and chic.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 31^st, 2013.

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MUMBAI: Bollywood music composer AR Rahman, who has produced some remarkable tracks in movies such as Roja, Bombay, Dil Se, Taal and Slumdog Millionaire, announced on Monday that he will go on a road tour called Rahmanishq in October across India. The tour will begin with a concert in Sydney this August.

“This is what keeps me going. Their (the audience) love makes me want to make more and more music,” Rahman said at a press conference about his road tour. The artist, known for his humility said, “Any true artist will have creative ego — without that your work can’t be the best. But you have to be at war with your personal ego.” He feels that there are two kinds of failure. “If failure comes due to nonpreparation or lack of work, then you feel guilty. If it comes through destiny, then you understand that it just turned out that way.”

He is all set for this road tour which will be the first of its kind in two decades and feels this is the right time for it. “Everything has a right time. It is so good that this is happening now. Three years ago, I didn’t even know my future,” he said.

Talking about the cities selected for the tour, Rahman said, “I always wanted to go to cities you usually don’t think of. You generally think of Delhi, Mumbai…the idea was to meet fans in these [other] cities.” He will visit Kolkata, Visakhapatnam, Jaipur and Ahmedabad. The keenness to please his fans shows that he is very passionate about his work and loves his fans.

On his tour, Rahman will be joined by singers such as Javed Ali, Neeti Mohan, Shweta Pandit, and Harshdeep Kaur. “It will be an experience of music, great production, joy and fun,” he said in a very excited tone about the upcoming tour.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 31^st, 2013.

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After she graduated, she worked in a banking firm and subsequently, a multi-national company. “I have always loved to be a part of the corporate world — it completes me,” she says, adding that designing bags is a creative outlet but admits that she is still very much a part of the business world.

She operates from home, with a four-member team operating from the workshop in Korangi. “I operate from home, but I take massive orders online, all the way from UK to Dubai,” she says.

Her collection for summer 2013, which she plans to exhibit on August 6 at her residence in Phase 4 in DHA, is trendy. “The collection consists of bags which have been embellished with kat dana and beads, as well as some embroidery,” she says. “It’s more of a fusion, where Eastern embellishment meets Western style.”

The collection comprises of handbags, shoulder bags and evening clutches. The envelope clutches have intricate patterns in beautiful watermelon-coloured kat daana with silver; some have appliquéd owls in a floral print. Her oversized tan totes are also the perfect accessory for those who wish  to carry a laptop or iPad around during the day.

“The theme is floral, with lots of birds, bird cages, owls and floral prints — this is how one depicts summer. The collection is something trendy that you haven’t seen anywhere else.”

With a fan following on Facebook, she says, “Social media has played a very significant role in establishing my business. Even though I am still not doing it commercially, I get to see my talent greatly appreciated.”

While Barlas has experimented with just bags for seven years, she said that she hopes to delve into making scarves also in the near future.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 31^st, 2013.

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The stir that was caused by Shoaib Mansoor’s Khuda Kay Liye (KKL) in 2007 changed the face (and genre) of ‘Lollywood music’ to one that moves within the range of pop, rock and mellow tunes. KKL’s original and distinctive music album became a chartbuster not only in Pakistan, but also in India with album copies selling in equal numbers in both countries.

Six years down the lane, the soundtrack of one of the most expensive Pakistani film’s in our cinema’s history, Main Hoon Shahid Afridi, has been released. But while the music of actor-turned-film-maker Humayun Saeed’s film is not your run-of-the-mill dose of Lolly beats, it could have been better.

Main Hoon Shahid Afridi’s soundtrack, has some catchy numbers but even those are repetitive. PHOTO: PUBLICITY

Like the entertainment-packed film, the soundtrack is also heavily inspired by Bollywood. While it’s Bollywood-inspired trailers and storyline will attract hordes to theatres, the music suffers as it  follows the same-old formulaic treatment, making one feel that although the songs are catchy, the tune is repetitive.

The album consists of five songs. Jera Vi Hai Aanday has been written by Shani and Nadeem Asad, while Malal, Teri Hi Kami and a cocktail of two songs Angreja and Beautiful Night have been written by Sabir Zafar. An undisclosed item song Teri Hi Kami is also on the soundtrack. The music has been composed by the young Pakistani duo Kami and Shani.

Judging by the one item song (Teri Hi Kami), the soulful ballad in the voice of Rahat Fateh Ali Khan (Malal) and the upbeat, motivational/ patriotic song (Jera Vi Hai Aanday) by Shafqat Amanat Ali Khan which is sure to give you an adrenaline rush, the film’s music has everything to make it a hit but nothing as such to make it memorable. There is no denying that apart from Beautiful Night (which is lacklustre), Kami and Shani have created music which is as good if not better than the music of any Bollywood film. Having said that, there is nothing awe-inspiring about the MHSA soundtrack. It is good for Bollywood, but average by Pakistani standards — we have always made better and original music.

Main Hoon Shahid Afridi’s soundtrack, has some catchy numbers but even those are repetitive. PHOTO: PUBLICITY

Our inclination towards Bollywood music is rather shocking. It seems that the composers were given a heavy dose of AR Rahman and Lagaan music as inspiration, which is reflected in the safe and orthodox song writing. Khuda Kay Liye, Bol and even Chambaili had the signature Pakistani sound, which is why they stood out and this will be considered an extension of the Bollywood music we hear every day.

Where Angreja has the groove, rebelliousness and punch to be blared from car woofers — courtesy of Punjabi lyrics —  Beautiful Night, an English song based on the same groove and mood released separately is rather irritating and quite exaggerated. Club music, it seems, is strictly a no-go area for a country that grew up singing and listening to mehendi songs. Artists need to confront this reality and get over it because so far, all attempts at making English-desi club music have been pretentious.

Owing to its catchy melody and lyrics that suit the music of a rebellious theme for a cricket loving nation, Jera Vi Hai Aanday remains to be our favourite.  Lines like “mae ki jaanaa tuk tuk karna, mae tae yaar lapetaan (I don’t know how to play tuk tuk but I can hit the ball hard)” not only address the ongoing Misbah-Afridi competition, but also encompass our sentimentality as a nation.

VERDICT: 3/5

Published in The Express Tribune, July 31^st, 2013.

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If you haven’t bought yourself a pair of bright coloured or printed pants, you’re falling behind the trend. Local socialites and international celebs are spotted wearing these fun lowers that spruce up any humdrum shirt.

We are so relieved that ladies are catching on and wearing coloured skinnies out and about. Half the reason why red carpet events are fun is because we get to see fashionistas sporting the latest trends. You could either throw on some funky metallic sandals, a sleek structured top, and that classic-yet-edgy leather jacket for an all-around electric feel with your pants. Steal a page from Kate Middleton’s style book and pair your brightly coloured skinny jeans with something classic and preppy like a navy blazer (it works for the Duchess of Cambridge!)

Orange and coral skinny jeans and pants go well beautifully with dark neutrals like navy (black looks too Halloweenish), white, denim and other brights like yellow or cobalt. Match the intensity of red pants with another bright colour, like hot pink — the effect is a hip color-block effect that would also work well with another bright like yellow or orange (maybe bring it in the form of bright shoes or a handbag.)

Published in The Express Tribune, August 1^st, 2013.

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Cyrus, who starred in Walt Disney Co’s TV series, Hannah Montana, about a high school student with a double life as a famous musician, told Reuters that her newly cropped hair, tattoos and adult music videos don’t mean she is following the well-worn path to perdition trodden by other child stars. She’s just growing up.

“I’m selling records and that’s all I’m here to do,” Cyrus said. “I don’t care if people don’t like my haircut or think I dress this way [or that way] or my video’s too provocative.”

The 20-year-old singer, whose latest single We Can’t Stop is currently on the second spot on Billboard charts, said she is not like other young celebrities who become obsessed with their public image and self-destruct under the pressure of media scrutiny.

“If I knew what people were saying, I’d probably hate myself,” she said. “I don’t look at that kind of stuff.”

Cyrus said she was exasperated by the media focus on her new image, which includes a video packed with drug and sexual references, provocative poses and in which she jiggles her buttocks in a dance move known as “twerking”.

“You know, I built an entire empire for myself by the time I was 11, but now I’m just the twerk queen,” she said.

The daughter of country singer Billy Ray Cyrus said that although she has left the innocent TV teen image behind, she still considers herself a good role model.

“I don’t think it matters how much skin you show… I have a mouth of a sailor. I just keep it nice for TV. But I don’t think that makes someone a good or a bad person,” she added.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 1^st, 2013.

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It seems that Twilight star Kristen Stewart has had enough of the paparazzi. After all, the photos of her affair with Twilight director Rupert Sanders were captured by a sneaky photographer. Kristen was recently caught on film cussing at a shutterbug and calling him “f*** face” during an outing in Los Angeles, reported the Huffington Post.

It is unclear what the man had said to provoke such a violent response, but rumours suggest that the pap asked her about ex-beau Robert Pattinson — and that’s when K-Stew got furious.

A video shows Kristen hiding her face, but her voice is audible. When asked why she swore at him,  K-Stew angrily responded by saying, “Because you’re a piece of sh*t. You don’t deserve to breathe the same air I do.”

“Who is a piece of s*it?” the pap continued. “You are, you f*** face,” Kristen retorted. Later, she sat in the car that was waiting for her and ignored the photographer’s persistent personal questions.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 1^st, 2013.

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“We needed a fresh face and I liked Harsh. He has the fierce intensity of a lover combined with an innocent softness in his eyes,” says Mehra, according to the Times of India. “Mirza is a subject that is close to my heart. [Poet and screenwriter] Gulzar bhai started writing it three years ago.” He added that the draft was ready before his film Bhaag Milkha Bhaag went on floors. “It’s a unique love tragedy based on folklore which has been given a contemporary touch.” The film’s shooting will begin in 2014.

Mehra prefers to write his own scripts but this time he has given the job to the highly-respected lyricist Gulzar, who he always wanted to work with. “He is actually writing a film for me! It’s a dream come true,” he said, according to the Indian Express.

Although Harshvardhan is more inclined towards cinematography and screenplay — he studied writing and acting in the US and is currently working as an assistant to Anurag Kashyap for his movie Bombay Velvet — he is now ready to try out his acting skills.

Apart from Harshvardhan, Sonam has also bagged a role in the movie Mirza. The brother-sister duo is determined to make it big in the industry on their own and without the help of their father. Let’s wait and see how that works out.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 1^st, 2013.

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Karachiites Zheela Qaiser and Asad Badruddin, who are now based in Boston, are planning to host the first ever ‘Pakathon’. As the name suggests, it’s a hackathon for Pakistan which will commence over the weekend on September 13 and continue till September 15.

While catching up with her friend Badruddin, who is an activist and technologist and is currently working for Twitter, over dinner, the two friends felt the desire to do something for their county. “We started with a discussion on how we always talk about problems, but rarely take any action to end them,” begins Qaiser, a graduate of Yale University and now a designer and entrepreneur. “As a result of our conversation, the idea of Pakathon was born, which will serve as a medium to engage young people and allow them to use their abilities to try and make an impact,” she added.

At the weekend-long anti-conference — an unconventional and creative setting for people to meet and network — teams will form and pair up with mentors. Pakistani and non-Pakistani participants will have 40 hours for chalking out software solutions to battle Pakistan’s problems. “Acting as a bridge between Pakistani students at home and abroad, Pakathon will provide access to the resources of universities in the US, as well as facilities and mentors for those working in the country,” elaborates Qaiser. “A lot of this cross-collaboration has been happening in Africa and beyond, so this kind of project can be the first step in producing this synergy.”

“At the end of the day, it is a competition whereby the winning ideas and projects will be developed into applications and proper solutions,” explains Qaiser. “People will submit their ideas on our website and teams will be formed, based on common interests.”

With one member of each team present in Boston, the organisers are encouraging virtual teams and encouraging alliances with other Pakistani students and professionals in the area. The event is being sponsored by Open (Organization of Pakistani Entrepreneurs North America), Discretelogix, Hack Reduce, the Pakistani Student Organisation at MIT and the Harvard Pakistan Group.

“It is a common belief amongst many in Pakistan that young adults who are sent abroad by their parents for education and jobs lose touch with their country and do not contribute,” adds Qaiser. “Here we have an association of young Pakistani professionals setting out to make a difference in a way they know best — technology.”

An online link that has details of the event, http://pakathon.eventbrite.com/, says mentors and Judges include musician and humanitarian Todd Shea, the head of Pakistan portfolio at the Acumen Fund Shuaib Siddiqi, senior lecturer in Tech Innovation at MIT Sloan, Imran Sayeed, and product manager at Nokia, Saad Fazil, amongst others.

What kinds of problems will Pakathon try to solve?

Pakathon has six tracks — health, violence, energy, education, disaster relief and agriculture. Some of the starting points are as follows:

•  How can we use technology to connect skilled doctors to patients in rural areas?

•  Can technology help stop a suicide bomber or a car bomb?

•  How can cell phones be used to increase the reach of virtual courses?

•  How can we crowd source information to know what the greatest needs of affected areas are?

•  Is there a way technology can reduce power theft or bring a more transparent billing process?

•  Can you relay information about price fluctuations to rural farmers through an SMS service?

Published in The Express Tribune, August 1^st, 2013.

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In the article, Jemima says that Diana, who dated the heart surgeon from 1995 and 1997, sought her advice during fundraising visits to Lahore. The relationship was broken off as sources say Hasnat refused to marry her.

Jemima has revealed that her late friend Princess Diana was so “madly in love” with Hasnat that she considered moving to Pakistan to be with him. “She wanted to know how hard it had been for me to adapt to a life in Pakistan,” Jemima told the magazine’s contributing editor Sarah Ellison, according to dailymail.co.uk. “She also went to meet [Hasnat’s] family secretly to discuss the possibility of marriage.”

Diana tried hard to impress Hasnat’s immediate family, specifically his mother, but despite her best efforts, it would appear that this second love would see Diana yet again falling on the wrong side of an influential family.  Even though Diana had an aristocratic lineage — had married (and divorced) Prince Charles and was mother of the heir to the British throne — Hasnat’s mother wasn’t ready to approve of her son contemplating marriage with an English woman.

“For a son to marry an English girl is every conservative Pashtun mother’s worst nightmare,” Jemima added. “You send your son to be educated in England and he comes back with an English bride. It’s something they dread.”

Diana’s friend Rosa Monckton tells Vanity Fair that Hasnat was the one who initiated the break-up but her other friends believe that Diana ended it herself as Hasnat was not interested in getting married to her. Although the couple had discussed marriage — friends of Diana told the magazine that she wanted a daughter with Hasnat — the relationship fell apart when she met Dodi Al-Fayed (film producer and son of Egyptian billionaire Mohamed Al-Fayed). Rosa further insisted that Diana’s relationship with Dodi was just to make Hasnat jealous.

In Hasnat’s interview, as part of the Lord Stevens inquiry into Diana’s death, he called marriage “a ridiculous idea” and said, “I told her that the only way I could see us having a vaguely normal life together would be if we went to Pakistan, as the press doesn’t bother you there.”

Diana and Hasnat’s relationship will form the plot of the upcoming film titled Diana. Naomi Watts will play the title role. Vanity Fair revealed that when Hasnat was contacted by film-makers to share how his life with Diana was, he refused to cooperate, remaining very much the man Diana once described him to be, to a friend — “the one person who will never sell me out.”

The September issue of Vanity Fair will be available on news-stands in New York and Los Angeles on August 1.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 1^st, 2013.

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