Fasih Bari Khan To Bring Entertaining Web Series ‘Chintoo Ki Mummy’

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July 29, 2021

Fasih Bari Khan doesn’t need any introduction. The ace scriptwriter has provided some memorable dramas that highlighted some bold and sensitive social issues in an exceptional manner. His blunt style and humour never let one get bored of his plays and that’s the reason why his projects always manage to gather viewers’ as well as critic’s attention.

Famous for his work in telefilms like ‘Siray Ghaat Ki Farzaana ’ and serials such as ‘Quddusi Sahab Ki Bewah’ and ‘Ghisi Piti Mohabbat’, the writer is all set to bring his first web series titled ‘Chintoo Ki Mummy’.

**About ‘Chintoo Ki Mummy’**

Chintoo Ki Mummy is an entertaining take on the story of a dramatic woman who is not happy with her marital relationship. Continuing Fasih Bari Khan’s tradition, ‘Chintoo Ki Mummy’ also seems to be a bold and blunt commentary on social issues that women face in society. Imran Qazi will make his directorial debut with the web series.

It features Waqar Hussain, a renowned makeup artist who has been part of several projects with Fasih including ‘Quddusi Sahab Ki Bewah’ and ‘Bubbly Darling’, playing the role of Chintoo’s mother, Kiran, a beautician who seems obsessed with her looks.

It also features famous YouTuber Tamkinat Mansoor, model Abdullah Ejaz, and a new face Sameer Bucha in pivotal roles.

‘Chintoo Ki Mummy’ is produced by veteran actress Faaiza Hassan, who was last seen on TV in ARY Digital’s famous soap ‘Nand’. The actress did her most memorable character ‘Burns Road Ki Neelofer’ with the same writer. The series is expected to start from July 31 on Kabaarr Khaana’s YouTube channel.

The teaser is getting a lot of hype because of the bold content and the masses are excited to see Fasih Bari Khan’s script again.

There is very little bold content shown in Pakistan’s entertainment industry, hence, every time something like this comes out, the audience tends to get triggered. This genre has been created mostly by the same writer. People might like it or not, but it is getting the attention the creators would want it to receive.

Aagha Ali and Yasir Hussain Set To Make Their Directorial Debuts With These Exciting Projects

By

Warshma Chughtai

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July 29, 2021

There’s been a trend in the entertainment industry, where actors can be seen taking the mantle of directors, writers and producers. Recently, Sheheryar Munawar’s debut as a director and writer was announced and now, two more take up the director’s chair.

Raat

After a successful singing and acting career, Aagha Ali has been trying different things, including hosting and now directing. He has announced his upcoming web film for the digital platform, Urduflix. The poster revealed that he will be directing and producing the movie. He has also written the story.

It is a murder mystery based on ‘two people and one unforgettable night”, starring him and Hina Altaf. The audience has recently enjoyed their onscreen chemistry in ‘Shadi Impossible’ and will see the pair together for this intriguing project soon.

Ahmer Sohail, who directed Aagha’s music video ‘Mera Jahaan’ last year, will be the associate director of the movie. No release date has been announced yet.

Koyal

Yasir Hussain is one of those celebrities who have shown their talents in various entertainment territories, including acting, hosting and writing. He made his directorial debut last year with Harris Jarral’s music video, ‘Dori’. This year, he is set to direct his first drama, ‘Koyal’, based on sister rivalry.

The series is being produced for Emax TV, and it will be aired on UrduFlix and the TV channel, AAJ Entertainment. Yasir posted a behind-the-scenes sneak peek wearing the red “directorial cap” while giving directions to Mansha Pasha.

Mansha will be playing the titular character Koyal, while Fahad Sheikh will also be seen in the leading role as Moosa. The script is written by Zanjabeel Asim and it also features Fareeha Jabeen, Muhammad Noorul Hassan, Maham Aamir, Yasir Taj, Umer Aalam, Faysal Shahzad, and Sajeel Meer.

Interestingly, Yasir and Aagha both started as theatre actors. It will be enthralling to see if they blend their theatrical experience with the cinema. There is a sense of anticipation around how their journey, from the stage to acting and now behind the camera, pans out.

Atiqa Odho Performed Her Namaz Incorrectly And People Are Furious

By

Warshma Chughtai

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July 28, 2021

Atiqa Odho while performing namaz in 'Pardes'

In today’s world when people are observant of everything and are able to voice their opinions easily on social media, celebrities have to be on their toes with everything. They have to be careful of every move since anything wrong they do takes minutes to get viral.

Veteran actress Atiqa Odho got herself into trouble when the viewers noticed that she performed her namaz erroneously in the recent episode of ‘Pardes’. While carrying out tasleem, she turned on the left side first and then the right, which is the opposite way. This created a stir on social media as people found it religiously offensive and irresponsible of her and the creators.

The criticism led the channel, ARY Digital, to remove the specific scene from their YouTube video of the episode. Atiqa Odho and the channel have not made any comments on it, but the removal of the clip makes it clear that people’s opinions have reached them.

Last week, Atiqa Odho’s ‘Pardes’ costar Bushra Ansari was also bashed for a video of her dancing with Azaan Sami Khan at Sultana Siddiqui’s grandson Shahmir Shunaid’s wedding. Some people pinpointed that she should be mourning her sister’s demise, whereas others said that a legendary actress should be more ‘graceful’.

Artists are always under scrutiny and judgments come along with the tag of being famous. It is a two-way street. The actors and creators have the responsibility to be a bit more careful, whereas people need to stop being critical of every small detail.

“My Character Is Being Maligned”: Usman Mukhtar Speaks Out Against Cyber Harassment

By

Warshma Chughtai

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July 27, 2021

With the ongoing situation in the country, people have started believing that it’s about women versus men, but they are oblivious to what it really is about: right versus wrong. ‘Sabaat’ actor Usman Mukhtar has spoken out against bullying and harassment on his Instagram. He shared his personal experience which has been going through for years.

He refrained from naming the harasser but he explained that the spat began over creative differences, which led to bullying aimed at him, his family and friends.

How it began

Usman had directed and edited a music video in 2016 for an artist. Their creative differences stemmed from the singer being too controlling. They eventually decided to part ways and he had asked her not to give him credits for the video since it wasn’t made according to his vision. Years later, the artist made false claims against him, maligning him through a series of accusations. He said: “I have been harassed, blackmailed, bullied online for 1 and a half years”.

What followed

He informed the authorities about it and the FIA had summoned her. However, that singer did not stop. According to Usman, her claims against him kept changing over the years. She had even apologized at a point, which he attached a screenshot of, but continued to defame him. This has affected his family and friends as well and also caused him anxiety.

He said: “My intention is not to take away from the valid fears and threats women face every day, rather it is to clear the air so people don’t exploit the situation for their own false and unfounded gain.”

Celebrities have shown their support to Usman, including Mahira Khan, Kubra Khan, Zara Noor Abbas and Armeena Khan.

Usman expressed his hesitance over going public with the situation. He said: “I had wanted to resolve this quietly, in order to not bring negative attention onto a woman, any woman, but I can’t remain silent in good conscience while my character is constantly being maligned.”

He added that he will take further legal action and keeping us updated.

Did You Know Haseena Moin Wrote This Drama For Star Plus?

By

Armaan Shehreyaar

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July 26, 2021

Legendary writer Haseena Moin, who passed away this year, has monumental contributions to the Pakistani drama industry. From the unforgettable and touching family drama, ‘Tanhaiyan’ to the breathtaking medical drama ‘Dhoop Kinaray’, many of such Haseena Moin scripts are now considered cult classics of our television history.

Observing the current situation of our dramas, we are still in awe of these classics, but did you know that Haseena Moin also wrote a drama serial exclusively for India? If not, we are here to answer all the questions in your head.

When Haseena Moin Wrote a Script for Star Plus

In 1997, when the social and political situations of India and Pakistan were better, compared to now, the countries collaborated for an “Indo-Pak” drama serial. Haseena Moin wrote the script titled ‘Tanha’ and Pakistani actors Marina Khan and Sajid Hassan went to India to work in the show.

‘Tanha’ did exceptionally well in the viewership charts. People all across South Asia enjoyed the realistic execution and inspiring story on television. The title track of the project was written and composed by renowned lyricist Javed Akhtar.

An Inspirational Storyline

‘Tanha’ revolves around a widowed old lady Shakeela Begum, played by veteran Indian actress Sushma Seth, who runs a garment factory and aspires to keep her family together. The drama portrays the emotional bonds a family shares and the daily household affairs in a much believable manner.

The ensemble cast of the project includes veterans Marina Khan and Sajid Hassan, among several Indian artists namely Aasif Sheikh, Anang Desai, Milind Soman, and Tanaaz Irani. Unlike regular dramas, ‘Tanha’ was shot in multiple cities of India including Aligarh and Lucknow. The forty episodes family drama had a successful run of two years on Star Plus from 1997 to 1999.

Later in the early 2000s, India and Pakistan collaborated several times for joint productions in films and dramas.

Dramas that taught us family values and highlighted the importance of self-respect and financial stability for women along with providing us clean and easily digestible entertainment seem to be a matter of the past now. But we hope to see quality content like this on our local TV screens again.

Kamran Shahid Sensationalises Shahid Hameed’s Affair With Actress Rani

By

Ifrah Butt

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July 26, 2021

The uncrowned queen of Pakistani cinema, Rani, does not need any regular introductions. A whirlwind of energy, an enigmatic woman, an actress par excellence, Rani was the ultimate superstar during the golden era of Pakistani cinema. She happened to be one of the biggest icons in the history of the Pakistani entertainment industry. Rani began her career in Anwar Kamal Pasha’s ‘Mehboob’ in 1962, however, she came to fame after her work with director Hassan Tariq. It was under Hassan Tariq’s direction that Rani delivered hits in succession with ‘Anjuman’, ‘Tehzeeb’, ‘Umrao Jan Ada’ and ‘Surraiya Bhopali’, to name a few.

Rani rose to fame from humble beginnings and delivered the finest films of her time. As an actress, Rani was larger than life. She had that something special that only Mina Kumari in Bollywood possessed and had she been there, she could have been equally successful.

Highlighting the issue

In a recent talk show on Dunya News, anchorperson Kamran Shahid sensationalised the news that the late actress Rani had an affair with actor Shahid Hameed, his father. According to Kamran, both actresses Rani and Barbara Sharif had a love triangle with his father, the latter of whom he married, only to divorce shortly after.

In the light of these circumstances, actress Rani’s daughter, Rabia Hassan, clarified on her social media that Kamran Shahid had done nothing but created the entire scenario and that her mother, Rani only had a professional relationship with Shahid Hameed. She expressed her disappointment on “channels promoting such eye-catching headlines to spread misinformation, just to grab viewers attention.”

As it happens, Rani was a senior to actor Shahid and dramatising such news, long after the actress’s sad demise due to cancer comes off in a bad taste. In short, everything wrong with the media has been reflected in Kamran Shahid’s coverage of such news, proof of nothing but yellow journalism.

Whether it is to feed the constant insatiable appetite of readers or to get more clicks and views, the dressing up of fake content by Kamran Shahid in this context or by others to make it appear authentic, is absolutely wrong. Maybe Kamran Shahid is trying to become the next gossip queen extraordinaire. It is an irony, that a popular socio-political anchorperson is beating such a tin drum at a time when the nation is already being plagued by brutal, heartless murders of helpless women.

Here’s All We Know About Sajal Aly and Bilal Abbas’ Upcoming Film ‘Khel Khel Mein’

By

Warshma Chughtai

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July 23, 2021

Cinemas have recently opened up in few cities after being suspended for one and a half years due to the pandemic. The film industries all around the world have suffered massively, however, most of the industries from other countries were able to release their content on other existing mediums, such as OTT platforms. Whereas, dramas maintained extreme popularity in Pakistan.

About ‘Khel Khel Mein’

Now that cinemas are opening, there are some exciting movies lined up for release and to be announced. One of the most anticipated films, ‘Khel Khel Mein’ stars Sajal Aly and Bilal Abbas. It will be helmed by ‘Actor in Law’ director, Nabeel Qureshi. An intense motion poster has been released with riveting music. It shows glimpses of soldiers travelling and being part of warfare, while a group of five people stand in the middle with patriotic gestures. It says, “If history was taught in the form of stories, it would never be forgotten”, hinting at the retelling of a historic event.

The leading duo’s chemistry was praised in the drama serial, ‘O Rangreza’. This will be Sajal and Bilal’s second Pakistani film after a five-year gap in movies. The multi-starrer feature film will also have industry veterans Javed Sheikh, Samina Ahmed, Marina Khan & Manzar Sehbai in pivotal roles.

Direction and Production

The movie is produced by Fizza Ali Meerza’s Filmwala Pictures. The production house has some of the biggest Pakistani hits under its banner, including ‘Na Maloom Afraad’, ‘Actor in Law’, ‘Na Maloom Afraad 2’ and ‘Load Wedding’, along with the upcoming film ‘Quaid e Azam Zindabad’. These movies have also been directed by Nabeel Qureshi, which makes it even more intriguing for the audience to see how the movie will turn out.

Fizza Ali Meerza said: “’Khel Khel Mein’ is our take on telling history in a fresh & engaging way to the youth so that it can be learned from and remembered. We hope the viewers will resonate with the story and come out of the theatres feeling more entertained & informed.”

Bilal Abbas had announced the movie earlier this year with a picture of the script’s cover on Instagram, saying: “Working with the finest producer/director duo in the country for the first time. Iss baar milte hain theatre mei “.

The music is created by renowned musicians Shani Arshad, Shuja Haider & Asrar Shah. A glimpse of their excellence can be seen in the teaser.

Director’s Words

Nabeel Qureshi also showed his excitement for the movie as he said: “The entire team has worked immensely hard to create the film and we hope that people will love it and learn from it.”

While talking to Galaxy Lollywood about working with Sajal Aly and Bilal Abbas for the first time, he said: “It was great working with both of them. They are very professional, disciplined and great at their job. They fit the characters perfectly as we thought of them while writing the film.”

The release date hasn’t been announced yet. But we can’t wait to see what this exciting project will offer to the viewers. Stay tuned to Galaxy Lollywood for all the updates.

Did Saboor Aly Actually Refuse To Wear A Mask Inflight Because Of Acne?

By

Warshma Chughtai

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July 20, 2021

With Pakistan currently facing a fourth wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is as important as ever for all citizens to play their part for everyone’s safety. The NCOC has urged people to follow SOPs as the cases of Delta variant increase by the day.

Celebrities have constantly been under intense scrutiny throughout the year for various reasons, be it having huge gatherings amid the pandemic or not following the SOPs.

Recently, ‘Parizaad’ actress Saboor Aly found herself in the middle of another controversy. She was criticized for refusing to wear a mask on a flight because the mask might cause acne.

A person on Twitter claimed that Saboor was on the same flight as his sister.

You don’t give a shit about your own health, fine by us. But don’t go parading in public places then, putting other people at risk! @Saboor__Aly
— M. (@bleekhhh) July 17, 2021

The alleged incident created a stir on social media and people began bashing the actress for not adhering to the rules and not caring about others’ health.

Galaxy Lollywood reached out to Saboor Aly for her side of the story and she completely denied the accusation. According to her, the story making the rounds is untrue.

With fake news on the rise, it is more important than ever for people to see both sides of the story before passing any judgement and read such claims on social media with a pinch of salt.

Shehnaz Sheikh and Marina Khan Reunite After 35 Years

By

Ifrah Butt

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July 20, 2021

Even though she has been away from all the limelight for quite some time now, Shehnaz Sheikh’s is a name that needs no introduction. Having won the hearts of many in Pakistan and around the world with her acting prowess in cult classics and evergreen dramas namely ‘Tanhaiyaan’ and ‘Ankahi’ amongst a number of others, Shehnaz Sheikh, became one of the most acclaimed and successful actresses in the country.

Shehnaz Sheikh was cast by Shoaib Mansoor and Mohsin Ali for the drama ‘Ankahi‘. Following her success as an actress, Shehnaz Sheikh ventured into hosting and direction as well and left a mark. After her successful television career, Shehnaz Sheikh bade goodbye to showbiz in the mid-1990s and has since been retired. Though she was seen giving interviews on certain occasions.

Whereas legendary actress, Marina Khan on the other hand kept her feet grounded in the field and has appeared in dozens of dramas and films. She took a break for few years from screens as an actor and returned with a sequel to her popular serial ‘Tanhaiyaan’ titled ‘Tanhaiyan Naye Silsilay’. Her brilliance in her craft was quite evident when her directorial series ‘Aayegi Baraat’ did wonders in the viewership charts with four consecutive seasons and a telefilm. Apart from fiction, Marina Khan has been part of several reality talk shows including her Morning Show ‘Marina Mornings’.

A Surprise For All Shehnaz Sheikh and Marina Khan Fans

It seems like Shehnaz Sheikh and Marina Khan fans are in for a big treat this Eid. Although Shehnaz Sheikh led a very successful television career, Shehnaz Sheikh has stayed away from the screens for quite some time. However, she is now making an appearance on television this Eid again with Asim Yar Tiwana’s talk show ‘Star & Style’ aired on PTV. She has previously appeared on the show individually in 2015 but this year, it will be with Marina Khan.

Shehnaz Sheikh, herself, did the same-titled magazine show on PTV back in the 90s. The show covered drama fashion film and food and with Asim Yar Tiwana’s show, the star will be revisiting the same program. It will be exciting to see both esteemed stars come together after 35 years.

Shehnaz Sheikh and Marina Khan, who played the evergreen roles of Zara and Sunya in ‘Tanhaiyaan’, will be seen reminiscing the ’80s and the classic dramas of Pakistan, the duo has been a part of, in ‘Star & Style’ this Eid.

The host, Asim Yar Tiwana told Galaxy Lollywood: “Growing up in the 80s and 90s, I have seen these two legends on-screen. It is a dream come true for me to see these two come together on my show and be able to work with them.”

The Celeb Reaction

It’s not only the audience that is excited to see Shehnaz Sheikh and Marina Khan together on screen after three and a half decades. The celeb brigade in Pakistan has also been sharing their uncontained excitement on social media.

Actresses Mahnoor Baloch and Zainab Qayyoum couldn’t keep their excitement in check after Asim Yar Tiwana shared pictures from behind the scenes of his show.

Actor Imran Abbas, who will also feature in ‘Star & Style’ as a guest wrote: “What a memorable moment to be with the two icons together.. The ladies who wrote their names in the history of Pakistani drama through their unmatched performances in “Ankahi”, “Tanhaiyyan” and “Dhoop Kinaray” in every true sense. The two living legends, the two powerhouses of talent Shehnaz Sheikh and Marina Khan. Thankyou @asimyar for this amazing evening,” while sharing a picture on Instagram.

Mahira Khan also gushed with excitement when Marina Khan shared a picture of herself and Shehnaz Sheikh on her Instagram.

Even Ayeza Khan seemed excited to witness the reunion on screen.

The show will also have a number of A list celebrities gracing it as guests, including superstars Javed Sheikh and Shakeel in one frame, heartthrob Imran Abbas and also the legend Maria Wasti. ‘Star & Style’ will air on the first day of Eid on PTVHome at 9.10 pm. It will be exciting to see the two legends’ camaraderie after so long.

These Superstars Are All Ready To Make You Groove This Eid

By

Warshma Chughtai

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July 20, 2021

Atif Aslam, Sajal Aly, Junaid Khan, Ali Zafar, Sarah Khan, Farhan Saeed, Aima Baig

It’s been a difficult year and a half for everyone around the world. The pandemic has brought a drastic change in people’s lives. No occasion is celebrated the same way as it was before. However, we tend to find happiness in small things. Especially when finally Pakistan will celebrate Eid with eased lockdown restrictions. Our entertainment industry is ready to give us a bonanza of content; from telefilms and dramas to brand-new songs. It’s time to get your playlists ready, the kingpins of the Pakistani music industry are poised to launch chart-topping tracks with some well-known actors.

Falak Shabir – Zindagi

To begin, Falak Shabir’s latest song ‘Zindagi’ has already created waves among fans. It was released on July 16, featuring his lady love and popular actress Sarah Khan, to who the song was dedicated. It came out on their first wedding anniversary. The song shows their “happily ever after” as they display their love for each other throughout the video. The song has been continuously trending on YouTube and has gained more than 9 million views within 3 days.

Atif Aslam – Rafta Rafta

On the first day of Eid, the megastar himself, Atif Aslam will be releasing his song ‘Rafta Rafta’ featuring one of the leading actresses of Pakistan’s entertainment industry, Sajal Aly. A picture of them was enough to cause a social media frenzy as fans couldn’t control their excitement. The singer will be seen bringing the romantic factor back, which he is known for. The teaser shows an aesthetic desert landscape with shots of Sajal Aly in all her elegance, donning a graceful red dress and Atif Aslam in a dapper look. Fans can’t wait to see their chemistry on-screen as Atif promises that the viewers will “experience love like never before”.

Ali Zafar – Game Bun Gayi

Another treat on the first day of Eid, rockstar Ali Zafar is bringing the song ‘Game Bun Gayi’ to sway the fans off their feet. You know it’s going to be a crazy affair when he dyes his hair purple. He posted pictures of the song in which he goes all K-Pop with a new avatar. He even captioned it saying: “K-Pop in Pakistan?” Fans of Ali Zafar and the K-Pop genre, including BTS fans, have left no stones unturned to express their excitement. One commented on his post: “I’m telling you, if it’s about BTS, you have my heart, soul, lungs, pancreas.”

Junaid Khan – Taqdeer

The musician is coming up with a purposeful song, ‘Taqdeer’ on July 21 as well. He describes it as “an ocean of immense emotion”. The lyrics will manifest the “abuse, suffering and pain” that he has seen and heard. The song has been dedicated to all the victims to have suffered abuse. It’ll be interesting to hear a different genre compared to other songs, which will be focussing on the ongoing issue that we constantly learn about.

Farhan Saeed and Aima Baig – Na Cher Malangaan Nu

This is a much-anticipated duo that everyone’s enthralled to see. People got excited when singer and actor Farhan Saeed had shared pictures with ‘Kalabaaz Dil’ singer, Aima Baig, last November. However, it turned out to be for a photo shoot for a local brand. The popular singers have now dropped a motion poster, announcing their upcoming song ‘Na Cher Malangaan Nu’ on July 23. They are both seen wearing a white shirt with khaki pants in the middle of stunning desert scenery. Going by the caption: “The more you love, the more you get hurt”, the song is about intense love. It has been directed by the known fashion photographer-turned-video director Adnan Qazi. He said he was “inspired by Taylor Swift and Joseph Kahn’s videos” and he has channelled that in this video. It is written, composed and produced by ‘Baari’ singer Bilal Saeed. It will be mesmerizing to witness these super talented artists collaborating.

This Eid is going to be a celebration of music with your favourite artists all releasing songs that will surely be the talk of the town. From Atif Aslam’s romantic track, Ali Zafar’s foot-tapping number and look, Junaid Khan’s issue-based song, and exciting Farhan Saeed and Aima Baig’s collaboration, which one are you looking forward to the most?